Hi, I'm Neil Pickford, a versatile designer with experience spanning graphic design, 3D design, and engineering design. I enjoy taking projects from initial concepts through to final production, whether that involves branding, visual concepts, or typesetting for various media. My background in architecture, combined with years of hands-on experience with both digital and manual design tools, allows me to approach challenges creatively and with great attention to detail. Outside of design work, I’m passionate about leading outdoor activities as a Mountain Leader and stay actively involved with the Invicta Mountaineering Club. I also have a long-standing connection to rowing, having competed and served in multiple leadership and administrative roles at Cygnet Rowing Club. When not designing, you’ll find me cycling, taking photos, or enjoying cricket in Kent.

Neil Pickford

Hi, I'm Neil Pickford, a versatile designer with experience spanning graphic design, 3D design, and engineering design. I enjoy taking projects from initial concepts through to final production, whether that involves branding, visual concepts, or typesetting for various media. My background in architecture, combined with years of hands-on experience with both digital and manual design tools, allows me to approach challenges creatively and with great attention to detail. Outside of design work, I’m passionate about leading outdoor activities as a Mountain Leader and stay actively involved with the Invicta Mountaineering Club. I also have a long-standing connection to rowing, having competed and served in multiple leadership and administrative roles at Cygnet Rowing Club. When not designing, you’ll find me cycling, taking photos, or enjoying cricket in Kent.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Neil Pickford, a versatile designer with experience spanning graphic design, 3D design, and engineering design. I enjoy taking projects from initial concepts through to final production, whether that involves branding, visual concepts, or typesetting for various media. My background in architecture, combined with years of hands-on experience with both digital and manual design tools, allows me to approach challenges creatively and with great attention to detail.

Outside of design work, I’m passionate about leading outdoor activities as a Mountain Leader and stay actively involved with the Invicta Mountaineering Club. I also have a long-standing connection to rowing, having competed and served in multiple leadership and administrative roles at Cygnet Rowing Club. When not designing, you’ll find me cycling, taking photos, or enjoying cricket in Kent.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Freelance designer/creative
December 1, 2013 - Present
Taking commissions for general graphic design work including branding, visual concepts and typesetting for advertising, leaflets, flyers, posters, stationary, signage, booklets, books, reports and clothing. Skilled at working to briefs or generating visuals from basic ideas, managing projects and working to deadlines. Competent generating output for digital, print and specialist print applications and continuing 3D design work. Also developing greeting card design concepts including handmade and commercial applications such as laser cutting.
Designer/Engineer at Carl Douglas Racing Shells
November 30, 2013 - July 10, 2025
Principal role involved CAD/CAM operation and machining of high-performance aluminium rowing boat components using Hurco VM1 mill from self-generated CAD models. Contributed to hand-finishing bespoke rowing sculls involving wood/Kevlar laminates, epoxy resins, lacquers, carbon fibre and aluminium. Created both print and digital advertising materials, managed company's social media, and led development of a new company website.
3D Designer at Nomadic Display
October 31, 2008 - July 10, 2025
Led a busy 3D design team creating visuals and estimates for the sales team based on client briefs. Worked with Project and Show Services teams providing detailed drawings, quotations, and technical input. Promoted to Team Leader in 2006 with responsibilities including technical liaison with the factory, developing company database with IT, strategic management involvement, recruitment and designer training. Also supported the 2D design team with graphic design tasks during busy times.
Freelance/Temp Designer at Rocket
March 31, 1998 - July 10, 2025
Freelancing and temping for an advertising design company in central London to brush up Mac skills and seek permanent employment.
Designer at The Design Studio, Kent County Council
April 30, 1997 - July 10, 2025
Responsible for all 3D, signage and exhibition work using traditional and digital techniques. Produced fast and accurate estimates, proofs and finished results. Prepared maps for print, display, and publications, digitising the cartography process. Gained experience in project management, client relations, budgets, deadlines and teamwork.

Education

BA (Hons) Architecture at University of Greenwich
January 1, 1990 - December 31, 1993
BTEC National Diploma at South Kent College of Technology
January 1, 1988 - December 31, 1990
GCSE at Homewood School, Tenterden
January 1, 1984 - December 31, 1988

Qualifications

Mountain Leader Award (Summer)
January 11, 2030 - July 10, 2025
Current First Aid (16 hours)
January 11, 2030 - July 10, 2025
Chief Scout Award
January 11, 2030 - July 10, 2025

Industry Experience

Professional Services, Manufacturing, Consumer Goods, Media & Entertainment, Government