Hi, I'm Ryschell Dragunov, a creative and results-driven graphic designer with a BSc in Clothing and Textiles. I have extensive experience in editorial design, layout composition, and brand storytelling, particularly within the fashion, publishing, and retail industries. I love bringing bold editorial visions to life and managing complex projects with tight timelines. Over the years, I've designed over 50 books, launched a magazine from concept to coffee table, and honed my skills in Adobe Creative Suite and project management tools. I enjoy collaborating with clients and teams to create polished, engaging layouts and marketing materials that not only look great but also communicate strategically and effectively.

Ryschell Dragunov

Hi, I'm Ryschell Dragunov, a creative and results-driven graphic designer with a BSc in Clothing and Textiles. I have extensive experience in editorial design, layout composition, and brand storytelling, particularly within the fashion, publishing, and retail industries. I love bringing bold editorial visions to life and managing complex projects with tight timelines. Over the years, I've designed over 50 books, launched a magazine from concept to coffee table, and honed my skills in Adobe Creative Suite and project management tools. I enjoy collaborating with clients and teams to create polished, engaging layouts and marketing materials that not only look great but also communicate strategically and effectively.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Ryschell Dragunov, a creative and results-driven graphic designer with a BSc in Clothing and Textiles. I have extensive experience in editorial design, layout composition, and brand storytelling, particularly within the fashion, publishing, and retail industries. I love bringing bold editorial visions to life and managing complex projects with tight timelines.

Over the years, I’ve designed over 50 books, launched a magazine from concept to coffee table, and honed my skills in Adobe Creative Suite and project management tools. I enjoy collaborating with clients and teams to create polished, engaging layouts and marketing materials that not only look great but also communicate strategically and effectively.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Freelance Graphic Designer & Marketer at ZeSaiphio Marketing
December 22, 2016 - July 4, 2025
As the founder of ZeSaiphio Marketing and Design, I bring over 15 years of ongoing experience in graphic design, marketing, sales, and administration. I specialize in layout-driven projects like books, magazines, and catalogues—with more than 50 published book projects (Canada Book Distributors) and two magazines to date. I help clients bring clarity and cohesion to their visual communications—designing layouts, covers, and marketing assets that align with brand goals. I manage projects from concept to delivery, keeping timelines on track and communication clear. Skilled in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, I create both print and digital materials while maintaining strong file organization and backup systems. I also support social media and content planning, ensuring visuals are consistent and on-brand across platforms. With a background in sales and CRM tools like HubSpot, I bring an organized, business-minded approach to creative work. I’m known for blending design skill with reliable project coordination—delivering thoughtful, professional results every time. You can view my portfolio on Issuu. https://issuu.com/zesaiphiodesign/docs/zesaiphio_portfolio_logo_and_branding_2025
Book Layout Designer at Canada Book Distributors
September 1, 2021 - March 13, 2025
At Canada Book Distributors—home to Lone Pine Books, Company’s Coming, Eschia, Kids World, and Folklore—I designed and restored a wide range of print publications. My work included over 40 children’s books, wildlife guides, commemorative editions, and culturally significant projects. Key highlights include designing a 40th anniversary book for Rapid Fire Theatre, restoring Lone Pine’s classic bird guides, and serving as lead designer on a book of Indigenous lore shortlisted for a BPAA Book Design Award. I also contributed to the layout of an Indigenous language dictionary. This role sharpened my skills in editorial design, cultural sensitivity, and visual storytelling. I collaborated closely with editors, authors, and publishing teams to ensure each book was engaging, accessible, and publication-ready. Skills: Book Design · Editorial Layout · Typography · Adobe InDesign · Print Production · Visual Storytelling · Children's Publishing · Cultural Content Design · Photo Restoration · Project Coordination · Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator
Magazine Layout & Editorial Design at Create the Ripple Magazine & Sharp Women Magazine (ZeSaiphio Marketing Contract)
May 31, 2020 - February 28, 2021
As Head of Design for Create the Ripple, a lifestyle and entrepreneur-focused magazine, I led the full creative direction—transforming written content into compelling visual narratives. I shaped the magazine’s identity through clean layout design, thoughtful typography, and cohesive editorial composition. Alongside this, I contributed to Sharp Women Magazine, a publication spotlighting women in entrepreneurship. My design work supported both magazines’ missions by delivering engaging, empowering content with visual clarity and brand consistency. Responsibilities included full issue layout, visual brand development, collaboration with editorial teams, asset preparation for print and digital formats, and managing project timelines and design systems. Skills: Editorial Design · Magazine Layout · Typography · Adobe InDesign · Visual Storytelling · Creative Direction · Brand Identity · Project Coordination · Women's Entrepreneurship Content · Print & Digital Design
Freelance Marketing Assistant at Wild TV Inc. (Contract via ZeSaiphio)
September 1, 2018 - September 1, 2020
As Marketing Assistant for Wild TV, I supported brand growth through a mix of strategic, creative, and administrative services. I specialized in lead generation, market research, and HubSpot CRM management, while also contributing to public relations, content strategy, and eCommerce coordination. I developed and qualified marketing leads, maintained a clean and actionable CRM database, and produced competitor research to guide sales efforts. I also wrote and distributed press releases, managed product listings, and facilitated communication across sales, marketing, and support teams. Skills: HubSpot CRM · Lead Generation · Market Research · PR Writing · Marketing Coordination · Sales Support · eCommerce · Data Management · Customer Experience · Graphic Design Support
Account Executive at Business in Edmonton Magazine
September 14, 2015 - February 14, 2017
Advertising Consultant & Account Executive Print Media Industry As an Account Executive, I developed and sold targeted ad campaigns for both small businesses and corporate clients, helping drive print revenue and brand visibility. I built strong client relationships, aligned advertising strategies with business goals, and managed multiple accounts from pitch to publication. My work included campaign planning, contract negotiation, proposal writing, and CRM management (ACT). I collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver cohesive, results-driven advertising solutions—while ensuring client satisfaction and timely execution. Skills: B2B Advertising · Client Management · Sales Strategy · CRM (ACT) · Campaign Planning · Negotiation · Cold Calling · Marketing Communications · Account Management
Marketing & Branding Consultant at Design Marketing
December 30, 2013 - December 30, 2014
At Design Marketing, I helped businesses elevate their brand visibility through strategic promotional campaigns and branded merchandise. I worked directly with clients to deliver custom marketing solutions—from business cards to event giveaways—tailored to their goals and audience. My role combined strategy, graphic layout, and client support. I managed multiple projects, coordinated the production of branded materials, and advised on cost-effective channels for engagement and outreach. With a creative, business-minded approach, I helped clients grow brand recognition and drive results. Skills: Promotional Branding · Marketing Strategy · Graphic Design · Event Planning · Customer Service · CRM Tools · Business Development · Project Coordination · Creative Problem Solving.
Executive Assistant at IBM
February 1, 2010 - February 1, 2013
At IBM Canada, I supported senior leadership—including the VP of Public Sector and GM of IBM Edmonton—by managing complex calendars, coordinating executive communications, and overseeing daily operations. I handled confidential correspondence, prepared high-level documents and presentations, and organized events such as executive breakfasts and AGMs. I also managed travel logistics, reconciled expenses, supported internal systems, and liaised with government and business stakeholders. Known for professionalism, discretion, and proactive problem-solving, I ensured seamless execution across all administrative functions. Skills: Executive Support · Calendar & Travel Management · Event Planning · Expense Reporting · Stakeholder Relations · Microsoft Office · IBM Systems · Confidentiality · Administrative Operations · Staff Training
Founder & CEO at Alter Ego/Dragon Fire Distributions
December 26, 2002 - April 25, 2009
I launched and operated Alter Ego, a novelty retail store offering eccentric merchandise in the style of Hot Topic. Starting as a trade show venture, the business grew into a high-traffic storefront known for bold branding and curated products. I oversaw all business operations—marketing, hiring, HR, merchandising, inventory, POS systems, vendor management, and customer service. I also led grassroots and print advertising, developed operational systems, and trained staff. When market conditions changed, I closed the business responsibly and with integrity. Skills: Retail Management · Brand Development · Business Operations · Inventory & Merchandising · Marketing Strategy · POS Systems · Team Leadership · Customer Experience · Entrepreneurship

Education

BSc HEc Degree at University of Alberta
September 1, 1986 - July 1, 1990
Focus on Clothing and Textiles with a side focus of Art, Typography, Layout and photography

Qualifications

Graphic Design & Social Media
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2017
Entrepreneur Training Microbusiness Master
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2018
Proficient in Microsoft Office
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016
Computer Upgrading TechReach
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Retail, Professional Services, Consumer Goods
    uniE621 Digital Banner Design | Web & Email Use
    Designed custom digital banners for use on websites and in online newsletters. Focused on clean layout, responsive formatting, and brand consistency to ensure strong visual impact across digital platforms. DigitalBannerDesign WebGraphics EmailMarketing OnlineBranding GraphicDesign ResponsiveDesign VisualCommunication MarketingDesign AdobePhotoshop
    uniE621 Shopify Support & Custom Product Design
    Designed original products and supporting visuals for a branded Shopify storefront. This included creating product artwork, mockups, and graphics, as well as uploading listings and ensuring visual consistency across the store. Focused on delivering a cohesive brand experience from product concept to online presentation. ProductDesign ShopifySupport EcommerceDesign CustomMerchandise OnlineStoreDesign GraphicDesign BrandConsistency DigitalMockups AdobePhotoshop ShopifyDesigner
    uniE621 Magazine Layout & Advertisement Design
    Designed editorial spreads and integrated advertisements for a cohesive, reader-friendly publication. Focused on typographic hierarchy, visual balance, and brand alignment to enhance both content and promotional messaging within the magazine format. MagazineDesign EditorialLayout AdvertisingDesign PrintDesign Typography GraphicDesign VisualStorytelling BrandAlignment AdobeInDesign PublicationDesign
    uniE621 Magazine Layout & Advertisement Design
    Designed editorial spreads and integrated advertisements for a cohesive, reader-friendly publication. Focused on typographic hierarchy, visual balance, and brand alignment to enhance both content and promotional messaging within the magazine format. MagazineDesign EditorialLayout AdvertisingDesign PrintDesign Typography GraphicDesign VisualStorytelling BrandAlignment AdobeInDesign PublicationDesign
    uniE621 Expressive Typography Design
    Explored creative typography by using letterforms, font and integrated imagery to communicate the meaning of each word visually. This conceptual approach blends type and illustration to evoke emotion, tone, and context through design. TypographyDesign ExpressiveType VisualCommunication TypeAsImage GraphicDesign CreativeTypography IllustrativeType ConceptualDesign DesignThinking
    uniE621 Logo & Branding Design
    Crafted a custom logo and supporting brand elements to establish a clear, cohesive visual identity. The design process focused on versatility, brand alignment, and creating a memorable presence across both print and digital platforms. LogoDesign BrandIdentity VisualBranding GraphicDesign CreativeDirection BrandDevelopment AdobeIllustrator LogoCreation BrandConsistency
    uniE621 Brand Advertising & Marketing Design
    Developed cohesive visual assets to support brand advertising and marketing campaigns across print and digital platforms. This included branded graphics, promotional materials, and layout design aligned with the company’s voice and visual identity—ensuring consistency and impact throughout the campaign. BrandMarketing AdvertisingDesign VisualBranding MarketingMaterials GraphicDesign PrintDesign DigitalMarketing CampaignDesign BrandIdentity AdobeCreativeSuite
    uniE621 Logo Design | Marketing Application
    Designed a custom logo as part of a broader marketing strategy, with a focus on brand recognition and versatility. The final mark was used across both print and digital materials to create a cohesive and professional brand presence. LogoDesign BrandIdentity MarketingDesign VisualBranding GraphicDesign AdobeIllustrator BrandDevelopment LogoApplication
    uniE621 Magazine Advertising Design
    Created print-ready ad designs tailored for magazine publication, aligning with both the client’s brand identity and the editorial style of the magazine. Each layout was crafted to capture attention, communicate key messaging, and maintain visual harmony within the publication. MagazineAd AdvertisingDesign PrintDesign VisualCommunication GraphicDesign EditorialDesign BrandAlignment MarketingMaterials AdobeInDesign AdLayout
    uniE621 Branding & Logo Design | Business Card Application
    Developed a custom brand identity and logo tailored for print, with a focus on clarity, professionalism, and visual impact. The final design was applied to a clean, well-balanced business card layout—ensuring consistent brand presence across marketing materials. LogoDesign BrandIdentity BusinessCardDesign GraphicDesign PrintDesign BrandDevelopment VisualCommunication AdobeIllustrator BrandingPortfolio
    uniE621 The Next Tradition - Elias Shepherd - Children’s Book Cover Design
    Designed to support a heartfelt transition from the fantasy of Santa to the deeper meaning of the holidays, this project features a full interior layout and custom illustrations. Graphics were created using Adobe Firefly, Photoshop, and Illustrator, with final layout completed in InDesign. The design balances warmth and simplicity to reflect the book’s message of mindful, connected celebration. ChildrensBookDesign BookLayout AdobeFirefly Photoshop Illustration EditorialDesign VisualStorytelling GraphicDesign AdobeInDesign https://www.twine.net/signin
    uniE621 Children’s Book Interior Layout & Illustration
    Designed to support a heartfelt transition from the fantasy of Santa to the deeper meaning of the holidays, this project features a full interior layout and custom illustrations. Graphics were created using Adobe Firefly, Photoshop, and Illustrator, with final layout completed in InDesign. The design balances warmth and simplicity to reflect the book’s message of mindful, connected celebration. ChildrensBookDesign BookLayout AdobeFirefly Photoshop Illustration EditorialDesign VisualStorytelling GraphicDesign AdobeInDesign https://www.twine.net/signin