Lise Watkins

Hiring Managers,

Thank you so much for taking to time to read my cover letter and resume. My name is Lise and I have been a graphic designer for over 10  years. I have extensive experience in web, print, social media, and publication design. As the longest-serving creative director for Albuquerque the Magazine I was in charge of the design and production of a 300-page magazine 11 times a year. I managed a small staff and took on the lion’s share of the design burden. We had to be efficient and precise so I created systems for many different workflows from advertising to editorial design. 

As the first-ever art director for Electric Playhouse, a multi-million dollar entertainment technology company, I built and implemented their brand vision across their physical location, web, and traditional marketing. I also used WordPress to build and maintain multiple websites as well as working with outside contractors to create marketing and web assets.

I am confident that I can handle your graphic design needs and believe I would be a wonderful addition to your team. I am personable and professional, with many years of working in a collaborative office environment. 

- Lise

Studio Manager

DANNY HART DESIGN STUDIO
Albuquerque, NM

January 2022– February 2023

Rebranded the company from the ground up

Managed social media, art, messaging, and interactions

Organized workspaces and supplies 

Photographed products and models 

artistic director

Electric Playhouse
Albuquerque, NM

August 2019– January 2022

Hired and Managed the company’s entire creative department including designers, animators, video editors, game designers, and web developers.

Implemented visual and brand assets across multiple departments

Curated and built relationships with visual artists in the community for collaboration 

Facilitated collaboration between departments

Creative director

Albuquerque The Magazine
Albuquerque, NM

April 2013–October 2018

Managed monthly deadlines for advertising, photography, editorial layout, marketing, advertising, and event production

Implemented a visual overhaul of the magazine templates,   collateral, and website

Planned and built a 250-350 page magazine each month

Hired and managed a team of designers and photographers

Oversaw print production of all materials including specifications, troubleshooting, schedule, and special supplements

Concepted design solutions for editorial layouts, marketing materials, event decor and branding

Graphic artist

Deluxe design
Rio Rancho, NM

June 2012–march 2013

Designed a variety of different products for music festivals and bands, including Muse, Bonaroo, Electric Forest, The String Cheese Incident, and Made in America Festival, as well as International companies including Intel.

Non-degree courses coursework in art, design, and history from Community College of San Francisco, and the Academy of Art University, San Francisco