ROLE: ART Director (2010-2015)

Coordinated wireframing, UI/front-end web design, back-end development, and streamlined operational processes. Additionally, I led the charge in executing impactful digital and physical marketing campaigns, aligning them with overarching product development goals. I successfully navigated and allocated budgets for photoshoots, including sourcing talent and product styling.

THe Challenge

MARCHsf faced a multifaceted challenge involving outdated operational processes, process silos, disorganized product and client data, the urgent requirement for comprehensive branding collateral, the launch of a new website, and the establishment of a Gift Registry division. This unique challenge necessitated not only overhauling legacy systems but also creating the essential framework for creative work to thrive. My primary focus was to maintain smooth operations by striking a balance in prioritizing work, hiring the right talent, and orchestrating various moving parts. Introducing strategic changes at crucial points was a key aspect of achieving this balance.

The Approach

Operational Process Overhaul: Conducted a thorough assessment of current processes and design workflows to identify what was working and what wasn’t, then proceeded to develop a phased plan prioritizing by business needs and taking into consideration dependencies.

Design Deliverable Framework + Operationa Re-org Recommendation: Formulated a structured framework promoting a creative work environment and collaboration. Further I outlined an operational re-org plan in collaboration with CEO. I then integrated new tools and methodologies, aligning the team with the framework in concert with the new operational systems in-flight.

Comprehensive Brand Expansion: Executed the delivery of branded collateral and design assets to revitalize and expand the brand. Further I cultivated partnerships with local artists, producers, and purveyors to infuse unique, locally-inspired elements, reflecting MARCH's community ties.

Website Launch and Gift Registry Implementation. From there we:

• Launched the new website with user-friendly design and enhanced functionality.

• Elevated a new POS (LightSpeed.)

• Established a dedicated process for seamless Gift Registry integration, monitoring and improving performance based on user feedback and market trends.

KEY RESULTS:

Increased operational efficiency by 60%

Standardized operational and creative workflows

Key player in the successful launch of Gift Registry

ABout MARCH SF

Sam Hamilton opened MARCH in 2003 inspired by mentors Ralph Lauren and Alice Waters. In 2011 influenced by the local slow-food movement, as well as the discovery of the beautiful oil paintings of meat by Carrie Mae Smith, Sam shifted the focus of MARCH to home, kitchen and entertaining. Today, MARCH provides exquisite items for the home, pantry and table. Curated and collaborative collections include the bespoke MARCH kitchen worktables designed in collaboration with Union Studio, a marble kitchen suite from Michael Verheyden, hand crafted ceramics by Christiane Perrochon and our MARCH Pantry line. MARCH fosters partnerships with artists and artisans from around the world to create exclusive objects and furniture. MARCH's exhibition program has featured artist Gary Komarin, Paulette Tavormina, Cynthia Greig, Carrie Mae Smith, Joshua Vogel, Jonathan Kline and Karyn Lyons.