Draper James VP of Design, 2018–2026

Managed design direction for the introduction of several lifestyle categories, establishing the aesthetic for home and fashion accessories including home decor, bedding, stationery, gifting, jewelry, handbags, footwear and optical
Led the design of home decor exclusively for Kohl’s to address white spaces in the market in fashion bedding and bath, home organization, and pet
Design and project management of new store opening at Market Street, The Woodlands, TX
Window and display concepts and execution for new store
Design direction for editorial photography of accessories
Collaborated with synergistic brands such as Polywood, Apotheke, The Foggy Dog, Linus Bikes, Bala Bangles, Tretorn, Jack Rogers, and M. Gemi to design compelling product that expanded our customer base and brand recognition
Crafted seasonal concept presentations to address business needs and to inform design direction with licensing partners
Concisely communicated category specific design feedback to all partners, ensuring a high level of quality and a continuous brand thread was maintained throughout all product lines
Created detailed technical drawings and specifications for a variety of products
Prioritized responsible sample development, reducing the associated waste and sample costs
Oversaw packaging design for all in-house branded assets and maintained packaging continuity with all licensed partners

Kate Spade Senior Designer, 2015–2018

Led the first team dedicated to the design of innovative tech accessories including both sewn and molded device cases, and charging accessories
Developed signature fashion print and color driven device cases, establishing the brand as a design leader in the tech accessory market
Launched a fashion forward audio collaboration that included earbuds, headphones and Bluetooth home & desk speakers
Created category exclusive artwork packages and technical specifications

Coach Senior Handbag Designer, 2009–2014

Conceptualized and developed cost engineered handbags for Coach Factory store
Selected to be part of a group designers that partnered with Creative Director Stuart Vevers to create the core collection of handbag hardware components

Isaac Mizrahi/Liz Claiborne Handbag Designer, 2008–2009

Coach Technical Designer Handbags, 2006–2008

Bachelor of Science in Design

Industrial Design

University of Cincinnati, College of Design, Art, Architecture & Planning

1999 -2004