John Cheek

As Director of Web & Creative Services it is my responsibility to lead
and oversee the strategic development of effective creative messaging
at the brand, campaign, and individual tactic levels to support the
university strategic plan. I lead a team of designers, web developers,
photographers and videographers in the production of final creative
concepts and the planning and implementation of print, digital and paid
message placement efforts. Reporting to the Associate Vice President
of University Communications and Marketing I provide creative direction
and development marketing plans to maximize media buys. Collaborate
with a host of partners across campus including the office of the president,
deans as well as graduate and under graduate admissions.

• Develop and adhere to brand standards and guidelines to maintain
consistency across the brand
• Develop creative direction for new marketing campaigns across all forms
of print, web and digital media
• Prepare and oversee the annual budget and departmental expenses,
ensuring accountability for the completion of deliverables based on
university objectives
• Coordinate and collaborate across multiple divisions with staff, faculty,
administrators and key stakeholders to develop and deliver competitive
messaging in the ever-changing market of higher education
• Give art direction for all video production and photoshoots. Oversee
concept creation, storyboarding and the production of final print, visual
and audio elements
• Inspire creativity, provide feedback, and serve as mentor to creative staff
• Provide training for the creative staff to ensure they remain current in all
aspects of the their creative disciplines including attending conferences for
inspiration
• Command a strong understanding of design industry trends
• Translate marketing and strategic plan objectives into clear creative strategies across various outlets while ensuring consistent branding

Provide a variety of services from corporate identity to website design and more all while creating a polished brand that stands out in the marketplace. * Logo design * Business cards * Invitations * Direct mailings * Website design * Website development * Corporate identity * Trade Show Displays * Promotional materials for businesses and non-profits

As a Creative Director it is my responsibility to take the lead in all aspects of the creative process from concept to execution. This includes leading and directing the overall look, feel, and execution of 200+ titles annually, from cover concept to published work and ancillary promotional materials. Over the last 18 months, I have actively served as a member of the senior leadership team in determining strategic direction and vision for the next 5 years.
 Implement new campaigns and stay nimble in the face of new technology, all forms of digital media and new competitors
 Hire, train, lead and direct a team of 6 creative staff in all aspects of production, scheduling and design of covers, book interiors, website, marketing materials, catalogs, advertisements
 Deliver projects on spec and budget using stellar communication, and project management skills to troubleshoot issues as needed to maintain quality control
 Inspire creativity, provide feedback, and mentor to creative staff
 Lead and direct the creative staff in all aspects of production, scheduling and design of covers, book interiors, website, marketing materials, catalogs, advertisements and a variety of internal projects
 Ensure quality control, while providing feedback to creative team
 Oversee all aspects of print production and project management, resulting in comprehensive understanding of print preparation and design for print and digital publications, including social media, web, and e-books
 Expert in all facets of off-set printing, color theory
 Command a strong understanding of industry trends and creative tools available in today’s market
 Ensure company’s visual communication standards are met and maintained
 As a member of the SLT, I remain accessible to all team members regardless of role or department as a leader and mentor
 Expert knowledge of the business/production side of design
 Translate marketing and sales objectives into clear creative strategies

Under guidance of the Creative Director I was responsible for the development and overall concept, layout and design for publications ranging from books and covers to package design and marketing materials. Promoted to Creative Director in 2008. * Proactively advocated for the use of latest tools like the Adobe Creative Suite to keep designs modern and competitive * Conceptualized and designed 300+ books and covers on across a range of topics