DARREN WILSON, BFA
Creative Thinker, Designer, Maker of Things
Objective
Leverage over a decade of experience in strategic creative, design and technology leadership to join a world-class creative team doing meaningful work.
Skills
- The ability to lead a creative team in developing innovative solutions to business challenges
- Strong client management skills, both internal and external
- Excellent oral, written, visual communication and presentation skills
- Media agnostic creative development, from concept through design and production
- Production and management experience in print, video, interactive, and 3D
- High level of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
- Highly capable in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- 3D CAD design and rendering skills (Rhino 3D, Blender)
- Experienced in 2D and 3D production, using CNC, laser cutting/engraving, 3D printing, hand fabricating techniques, and traditional print production
Professional Experience
February 2004 to present:
Principal, darren wilson: strategic // creative // communications
- Leading direct client-serving engagements, as well as consulting on projects for agencies and studios
- Developing industry-leading solutions to business challenges through design, branding, communications, information architecture, user experience, and product design
- Clients include Ibanez Guitars, Abasi Guitars, Falbo Designs, Tourism BC, London Health Sciences Centre, America Online, McCain Foods, GlaxoSmithKline, and HydroOne, either in direct relationships or as a contractor through their agencies, including Sonar Group, OVE Design, Cossette Communications, and T4G
September 2013 to present:
Instructor (Part-time/Contract), Sheridan College
- Teaching first-year IxD students the core principles of Design, Visual Language, and Typography
- Developing student engagement through compelling curriculum, and facilitating discussions about contemporary issues in design and their impact on society
March 2005 to June 2010:
Vice President and Creative Director, Sonar Mediathink
- Developed and maintained strong client relationships through strategic thinking, collaborative work, and engaging creative solutions
- Led a cross-disciplinary creative team in the development of provocative, breakthrough creative solutions across multiple media, including radio, TV, print, interactive, video, and live events
- Managed the growth and development of creative staff; facilitated collaboration within the creative team, as well as with the strategic and account teams, clients, and suppliers
- Made valuable contributions for clients including Mackenzie Investments, Investors Group, The CUMIS Group, Lindt & Sprüngli, Procter & Gamble, and Visa Canada
May 2001 to February 2004:
Senior Consultant, Capgemini
- Delivered leading-edge user experience design, prototyping, and implementation on web- and intranet-based projects for clients such as Bell Canada, Ontario Power Generation, Standard & Poor’s, and America Online
- Conducted scenario-based planning exercises to develop strategic vision for the Digital Asset Management consulting group
- Engaged in brand naming and identity design projects for internal/joint-venture clients
1998 to 2008:
Course Director/Instructor, York University
- Worked for a decade as a part-time faculty member in the Department of Design at York University (Faculty of Fine Arts BFA), and the York-Sheridan Design program (YSDN B.Des)
- Taught introductory-level 2D and 3D Design, as well as various levels of Typography, Corporate Identity Design, and senior Design Workshop courses
- Led senior students through theoretical exercises and projects based on real-world business challenges, executing in print, interactive, and time-based media
- Promoted development of leadership, professionalism, and communication skills
1995 to 2001:
Senior Designer, Reactor Art + Design Limited
- Led design and art direction roles for clients in many sectors and executing across many media
- Developed numerous branding and visual identity programs, including GroceryGateway.com, Delta Hotels, Canada Toll Free, among others
- Art directed and designed corporate communications pieces, including annual reports, sales and marketing collateral materials
- Delivered design assets for advertising, editorial, packaging & promotions across print, broadcast and Web
Volunteer Experience
2012 to 2016:
Ramp Crew, Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Hamilton, ON
- Ensured the safety of flight crews, passengers and spectators, on and around the live ramp at “Canada’s Flying Museum”
- Assisted in loading and unloading passengers from 16 to 89 years of age, and delivered passenger safety briefings
- Towed aircraft into and out of the hangar and about the ramp as needed, according to the day’s flight schedule
- Cleaned, fueled, and oiled the aircraft, as well as offering any assistance with aircraft maintenance as requested by the Engineering Department
- Acted as a Museum ambassadors to the general public, ensuring all visits to the museum were
positive and memorable
Professional Recognition
- Advertising and Design Club of Canada
- Work selected to appear in RGD Ontario’s Design at Work juried exhibition
- Speaking engagements for Comdex Canada and Multimedia Tradeshows
- Invited to jury for the Applied Arts awards, Verso magazine and Design at Work
Published Work
- Wired, Applied Arts, New Jersey Monthly, Saturday Night Magazine
Education
1990-1994
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Specialized Honours), York University
- Studied design, typography, communication theory, among other areas
- Graduated First Class Honours with Distinction