www.linkedin.com/in/thejamesashley

EXPERIENCE

Design Director

Jan 2018 - Mar 2022

Edge Home Products/ComicWalls/POP Creations New York, NY

• Spearheading aesthetic vision of licensed wall and home décor, with consistent year-over-year growth in sales and market share

• Identifying core brand elements and marketing goals of licensors, and producing innovative merchandise while maintaining IP integrity

• Supervising in-house design staff and freelancers through product development life-cycle

• Collaborating with retail buyers on visualizing line plans and development

• Designing and implementing new operating processes and best practices for design, approvals and production

Senior Merchandise Designer

Mar 2005 - Jan 2017

BIOWORLD Merchandising Dallas, TX

• Conceptualized and developed cohesive lines of hosiery, leather goods & accessories for multiple competing retailers

• Coordination of sampling and production with overseas manufacturers, maintaining existing relationships and seeking new vendor opportunities

• Partnered with licensing division to spot high-profile and underground properties as well as trends in music, gaming & entertainment

• Advised sales team on the latest trends & licenses for marketing and new business opportunities

Lead Designer

Mar 1999 - Feb 2003

Fashion Victim Atlanta, GA

• Designed private-label and licensed T-shirts and apparel

• Communicated directly with licensors regarding assets and approvals

• Created original artwork, production art & color separations for apparel

• Implemented and maintained catalogs & website