Bud Franco: CREATIVE PACKAGING DESIGNER

Create and develop product and packaging for "Private label"/in-house brands (i.e. Modern Gourmet Foods) to include: Develop die line structure, Expand visual look to product line, design layout of graphics on entire package or product including principle display panel, side panels and back panel. Create and develop product and packaging for licensed brands (i.e. Corona, Peanuts®, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.) to include: structure, expand visual look to product line w/product/package renders (ie. pallet renders for club items). Set up and edit files for pre-production/duplication process and final production.

Responsible for monitoring all THV labeling updates. Execute CMS labeling verification activities by visual inspection against source labeling documents, completing project intake forms, review master mark-up (e.g., redlines) based on program timelines. Scope includes: CE, US and Japan. Execute MDR labeling verification activities by proofreading labeling against source input documents, Completing project intake forms, review master mark-up (e.g., redlines) based on cross-functional requirements. Circulate THV verification checklists as necessary and execute improvement tasks and solutions identified by management. Provide weekly and monthly metrics/dashboard summary of all work-in-process and projected completion dates.

Oversee and lead the graphics department in the creation of packaging & product design for gifts and baskets sold at retail. Establish and implement design format standards to produce consistent, high-quality results at print-to-retail level. Worked with the following dieline configurations: Tuck End Cartons (including STE, RTE & Taper), Slide Tray, Slant Tray (Corrugated), Auto-Bottom for Tower Sets & Confection, One-and Two-piece Kwikset Trays.

Communicate and facilitate the creative direction and formatting of all design deliverables and produce necessary communications pieces in both print and digital environments for a wide range of products for clients. Work closely with the marketing manager on the production of all print pieces from conception to completion and keeping informed on the latest trends and forecasts. I was also responsible for pre and post production quality checks. Clients: Walmart, Target, BB&B, CVS, Costco, Menards.

Design and oversee the creation of marketing materials to promote beverage and food sales in the entertainment industry with clients such as Disney, Royal Carribean, Hyatt Hotels, ESPN Zone Inc., Melting Pot, and others. Worked with a team of graphic designers.

Develop and execute graphic solutions for all Carrand point of purchase (POP) brand packaging, displays, labels, catalogs and other branding materials for retail chains including Walmart, Target Corp, Costco USA, Sams Club, Pep Boys & Auto Zone. Worked closely with marketing director and print vendors to ensure integrity of designs, as well as negotiate & coordinate photo shoots.

Led in the creation of packaging, support materials, POP displays, signage and collateral for SNAPWARE®'s product line, Doubling previous comp. sales. Inspired and supervised art department and creative team. Monitored all vendors and managed departmental budget.

Part of a 5-person creative team that led the way in innovative marketing solutions for the inline skating / skateboarding industry. Created packaging, wheel graphics, ads and was in charge of directing and layout of our in-house magazine, Inline Skate.

From concept to design and production of integrated communications programs.