Designer with 20+ years of experience in creating fresh, witty jackets & interiors—designing a visual brand to bring your story to life. Hello! I’m a book cover and interior designer with 20+ years in publishing, which basically means I’ve spent two decades turning blank pages into books people actually want to pick up. I’ve done it all, from sketching wild first ideas to polishing print-ready files that sail through production without a hiccup. Along the way I’ve learned the sweet spot between creative flair and market know-how — designs that look great, sell well, and make authors proud. Working with me is collaborative, imaginative, and always focused on your vision. I’ll listen, throw in ideas you might not have considered, and keep things moving without the drama. Whether you want a sharp, witty jacket, a clean and stylish interior, or a full design makeover for your publishing list, I’ve got you covered. Expect good humour, quick turnarounds, and a designer who cares as much about your book as you do. If you’re nearby, coffee’s on me!

Francis Kenney

Designer with 20+ years of experience in creating fresh, witty jackets & interiors—designing a visual brand to bring your story to life. Hello! I’m a book cover and interior designer with 20+ years in publishing, which basically means I’ve spent two decades turning blank pages into books people actually want to pick up. I’ve done it all, from sketching wild first ideas to polishing print-ready files that sail through production without a hiccup. Along the way I’ve learned the sweet spot between creative flair and market know-how — designs that look great, sell well, and make authors proud. Working with me is collaborative, imaginative, and always focused on your vision. I’ll listen, throw in ideas you might not have considered, and keep things moving without the drama. Whether you want a sharp, witty jacket, a clean and stylish interior, or a full design makeover for your publishing list, I’ve got you covered. Expect good humour, quick turnarounds, and a designer who cares as much about your book as you do. If you’re nearby, coffee’s on me!

Available to hire

Designer with 20+ years of experience in creating fresh, witty jackets & interiors—designing a visual brand to bring your story to life.

Hello! I’m a book cover and interior designer with 20+ years in publishing, which basically means I’ve spent two decades turning blank pages into books people actually want to pick up. I’ve done it all, from sketching wild first ideas to polishing print-ready files that sail through production without a hiccup. Along the way I’ve learned the sweet spot between creative flair and market know-how — designs that look great, sell well, and make authors proud.
Working with me is collaborative, imaginative, and always focused on your vision. I’ll listen, throw in ideas you might not have considered, and keep things moving without the drama. Whether you want a sharp, witty jacket, a clean and stylish interior, or a full design makeover for your publishing list, I’ve got you covered. Expect good humour, quick turnarounds, and a designer who cares as much about your book as you do. If you’re nearby, coffee’s on me!

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Senior Design Lead: Product at Sage Publications
January 1, 2018 - Present
Designed and developed award-winning book covers and interiors across a broad academic publishing portfolio, managing projects from concept to print-ready files. Introduced a company-wide Look Book process to streamline briefs, improve brand consistency, and reduce production time. Commissioned and managed freelancers, illustrators, and photographers to deliver on-brand designs. Collaborated with Editorial, Marketing, and Production teams to meet tight deadlines while maintaining creative standards. Mentored senior designers and provided technical guidance.
Senior Design Lead: Video at Sage Publications
January 1, 2017 - September 23, 2025
Directed a team delivering a multimillion-pound, multi-year animated infographic project, overseeing 2.5+ hours of animated content, ensuring visual consistency and timely delivery.
Senior Designer at Sage Publications
January 1, 2014 - September 23, 2025
Designed a wide range of book covers and interiors, including text-only books, and illustrated reference works. Delivered award-winning print designs recognised by the British Book Design & Production Awards. Championed rebranding initiatives, creating a globally coherent visual identity and design toolkit. Mentored junior designers and implemented an XML catalogue workflow to streamline production.
Middleweight Designer at Sage Publications
January 1, 2009 - September 23, 2025
Produced covers, layouts, and marketing collateral, supporting fast-paced publishing schedules.
Freelance Designer at SAKdesign.co.uk
January 1, 2005 - September 23, 2025
Provided freelance design services, delivering concept-to-completion design solutions for a varied client base.
Designer / Teaching Assistant at JET Programme, Japan
January 1, 2003 - September 23, 2025
Designed materials and supported teaching with cross-cultural collaboration.
Assistant Art Director (Internships) at Dreamworks Pvt. (Sri Lanka & India)
January 1, 2000 - September 23, 2025
Assisted art direction on projects during internships; contributed to design workflows.

Education

BA HONS Graphic Fine Art (2:1) at UCA - Kent Institute of Art & Design & University of Alberta, Canada
January 11, 2030 - September 23, 2025
BTEC National Diploma (Distinction) at Central St. Martins
January 11, 2030 - September 23, 2025
A Levels at Kings Canterbury
January 11, 2030 - September 23, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services