A little about me.

(I’m a school-loving nerd)

 

Hello–

­­­­I'm Molly, a seasoned design director with a knack for creating captivating brand narratives. Over the span of more than two decades, I've had the privilege of leaving my mark on the industry by leading award-winning projects for Fortune 500 giants such as Amazon, IBM, Starbucks, and Target.

But my journey has been more than practical experience; I've also shared my expertise as faculty at Michigan State University and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. This blend of academic rigor and real-world insight infuses my work ethos with a depth and perspective that resonates with clients and team-members alike.

For me, effective branding is more than just visuals; it's about distilling a company's essence – its history, values, and aspirations – into a narrative that inspires and engages. It's this philosophy that underpins my approach to every project I undertake.

My leadership style is founded on creativity, collaboration, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. I've found that by fostering a culture of openness and innovation, I can consistently deliver transformative results that exceed expectations. And with a talent for attracting top team members, I not only bring my own skills to the table but also cultivate an environment where ambitious ideas flourish into reality.

As I continue to push the boundaries that shape the landscape of brand expression, I remain dedicated to helping brands forge meaningful connections with their audiences in an ever-evolving digital world.

I’m currently a Creative Director/Design Director in Seattle. As a 200hr certified yoga instructor and Boston qualified marathoner I’m typically designing, reading, running, sleeping or eating. But mostly eating.

Education

Rhode Island School of Design - MFA Graphic Design

University of Illinois - BFA Graphic Design

University of Illinois - BFA Art History with emphasis in French Language and Literature

University of Washington - Certificate in Creative Writing

 

Awards & Competitions

Cannes Bronze Medal in Design

One Show Design, Brand Identity / Logo Design Silver

One Show Design, Design Does / Brand Transformation Gold

OBIE Silver / Multi-Format Campaign

Livestrong The Big C Competition Promising Project winner

Rent the Runway Foundation and UBS Project Entrepreneur inaugural intensive invitee

Exhibits & Publications

Published in “Designing Brand Identity: An Essential Guide for the Whole Branding Team” 4th Edition, Alina Wheeler

Icons of Progress exhibited as part of THINK presented by IBM in INNOVENTIONS at The Chicago Museum of Science Industry

Icons of Progress exhibited as part of THINK presented by IBM in INNOVENTIONS at Epcot® Walt Disney World® Resort

CHGO DSGN Recent Object and Graphic Design: a major exhibition of Recent Object and Graphic Design by 100 of the city’s leading designers

The Chicago Design Museum: inaugural exhibition

 

Brand Development

Stakeholder interviews

Development of territories

Name development

Development of brand positioning statement and pillars

Identity and visual language systems

Development of brand guides and documentation

Design operations

Loyalty and personalization

Competitive analysis across platforms and ecosystems

Visual Design & Art Direction

Typography

Logo design

Brand expression

Interactive and product design

Data-driven marketing

Experience design

Out of home

Social campaigns

Video & TV art direction