I am an experienced graphic designer passionate about visual communication, packaging, and branding. With a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication from the Ara Institute of Canterbury, I have honed my skills in both print and digital media. I thrive in collaborative environments and am comfortable working independently under pressure to deliver creative and effective designs that align with brand guidelines. Over the years, I've worked in diverse roles from healthcare facility support to co-owning a small business, leading marketing efforts and managing e-commerce. I enjoy mentoring junior designers and overseeing projects from concept through to final production, maintaining brand consistency and quality. I'm motivated, adaptable and eager to leverage my skills for new opportunities.

Micki Ridden

I am an experienced graphic designer passionate about visual communication, packaging, and branding. With a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication from the Ara Institute of Canterbury, I have honed my skills in both print and digital media. I thrive in collaborative environments and am comfortable working independently under pressure to deliver creative and effective designs that align with brand guidelines. Over the years, I've worked in diverse roles from healthcare facility support to co-owning a small business, leading marketing efforts and managing e-commerce. I enjoy mentoring junior designers and overseeing projects from concept through to final production, maintaining brand consistency and quality. I'm motivated, adaptable and eager to leverage my skills for new opportunities.

Available to hire

I am an experienced graphic designer passionate about visual communication, packaging, and branding. With a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication from the Ara Institute of Canterbury, I have honed my skills in both print and digital media. I thrive in collaborative environments and am comfortable working independently under pressure to deliver creative and effective designs that align with brand guidelines.

Over the years, I’ve worked in diverse roles from healthcare facility support to co-owning a small business, leading marketing efforts and managing e-commerce. I enjoy mentoring junior designers and overseeing projects from concept through to final production, maintaining brand consistency and quality. I’m motivated, adaptable and eager to leverage my skills for new opportunities.

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Work Experience

Graphic Designer at Giesen Group Ltd.
May 1, 2025 - August 15, 2025
Designed and managed packaging for multiple product tiers, supporting new product development and range extensions from concept and mock-ups through to final production, including proofing, supplier liaison, and brand consistency. Developed and managed templates and brand assets for print and digital, including logos, brand guidelines, POS materials, activations, signage, and photography direction to support cohesive marketing campaigns. Created digital assets for websites, social media, eDMs, and online campaigns aligned with brand guidelines and marketing goals. Supported sales teams by coordinating design requests and working with suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies. Provided mentorship to junior designers and oversaw administrative tasks such as project management, file organization, and barcode/QR code generation.
Co-Owner at Retro Kitz NZ
August 1, 2023 - October 1, 2024
Co-founded and managed a small business selling authentic football shirts via a bespoke e-commerce platform. Developed the brand identity and designed the website, overseeing all creative and digital assets. Led social media marketing on Instagram to grow engagement and drive consistent online sales. Managed financial operations, including coding and categorizing income and expenses, billing, payments, and budgeting for accurate financial tracking. Operated the business for just over a year before closing to pursue new opportunities.
Catering / Event Staff at Victoria Food Service Catering Co.
December 1, 2016 - June 1, 2018

Education

Bachelor of Design - Visual Communication Design at Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd.
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2020
Bachelor of Design - Visual Communication Design at Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd.
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2020

Qualifications

WSET Level 1 Award in Wine
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2023
WSET Level 1 Award in Wine
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2023
First Aid (now expired)
January 11, 2030 - August 15, 2025
Crucial Conversations
January 11, 2030 - August 15, 2025
De-escalation
January 11, 2030 - August 15, 2025
Sterilisation
January 11, 2030 - August 15, 2025

Industry Experience

Healthcare, Consumer Goods, Retail, Professional Services, Travel & Hospitality