Michelle Gates
Indianapolis, IN 46205
***********@*****.***
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the open position at your company. After thoroughly researching your company, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team, leveraging my extensive experience in graphic design and marketing coordination. For the past three years, I have served as a Marketing Coordinator at Indianapolis Fruit, where I played a key role in elevating the floral department to its highest level of success and driving produce promotions across the Midwest. A notable achievement was my integral involvement in planning, organizing, and overseeing the Indianapolis Fruit Trade Show and Golf Outing at Eagle Creek Golf Club in August 2024, which attracted over 250 attendees, including customers, vendors, and staff members.
In addition to my role at Indianapolis Fruit, I bring extensive experience from my time as a Senior Graphic Designer at TourDesign Creative, where I honed my skills in team leadership, creative problem-solving, and project management. My expertise in high-end publications and large-scale printing, combined with proficiency in tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Acrobat, positions me to make a significant impact at your company. Moreover, my experience as a Marketing Coordinator has equipped me with strong capabilities in digital marketing tools like Mailchimp, Eventbrite, and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. I take great pride in producing designs that are not only visually compelling but also strategically aligned with client objectives. My approach is marked by attention to detail, creativity, and a commitment to delivering solutions that meet the demands of each project.
I thrive in both collaborative and independent work environments, and I am known for my effective communication, presentation, and listening skills. My professional goal is to continue growing as a graphic designer and marketing coordinator while contributing my creativity, expertise, and interpersonal abilities to the success of your company. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team. I will provide my portfolio upon request. I look forward to the possibility of contributing your continued success.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Michelle Gates
Michelle Gates
4937 Norwaldo Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46205
317-***-**** ***********@*****.***
https://michgates01.wixsite.com/mggraphics
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gates-michelle-9519631b/ PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
Innovative and detail-oriented Senior Graphic Designer with extensive experience, including work in global multinational companies. Adept at creating visually compelling materials that align with organizational branding and strategic goals. Known for effectively collaborating with senior executives, including CEOs, to produce high-impact multimedia presentations and marketing collateral. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple high-stakes projects simultaneously while maintaining brand consistency and delivering results on time. Seeking to leverage my expertise in a Senior Graphics Communications Lead role to drive success at your company. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Indianapolis Fruit Marketing Coordinator
May 2021 – August 2024
• Gained extensive knowledge in the produce and floral industry, leading to the creation of innovative promotional programs.
• Designed and managed monthly and seasonal promotional campaigns, significantly boosting product engagement.
• Planned and executed the Indianapolis Fruit Trade Show and Golf Outing, including all related marketing materials.
• Developed high-end marketing products such as posters, banners, business cards, and product guides for clients, ensuring strategic alignment with brand goals.
• Managed digital marketing initiatives, including weekly email campaigns and website content optimization.
TourDesign Creative/Live Nation Senior Graphic Designer April 2002 – May 2020
• Led the creation of national and international advertising materials for high-profile touring musicians, comedians, and theatrical presentations.
• Managed the entire design lifecycle, from concept to completion, ensuring strategic alignment with client objectives.
• Created multimedia content across platforms, including print, digital, and video, while maintaining brand integrity.
• Collaborated closely with video production teams to integrate design elements into TV commercials and long-format video presentations.
• Worked directly with senior management, including the CEO, to oversee major art department projects and drive successful marketing campaigns. mgGraphics Owner / Director of Graphic Services
February 2001 - Present
• Provided comprehensive design solutions for various clients, including full store designs and marketing collateral for Vapor Madness locations.
• Delivered a wide array of custom design projects, including logos, advertisements, invitations, CD covers, and calendars.
• Successfully managed high-profile projects, such as a 12-month calendar for Photographer Olga Popova and a CD cover and insert for singer-songwriter Anita Aysola.
EDUCATION
Indiana State University Bachelor of Science, Graphic Design August 1996 - May 2001
SKILLS
Technical Skills:
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• Digital and Print Design
• Branding and Identity Design
• Typography and Layout
• Web Design and UI/UX Principles
• Social Media Graphics
• Photography and Photo Editing
• Video Editing Graphics
• Project Management Tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• HTML/CSS
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Website Management (WordPress, Squarespace)
Soft Skills:
• Strategic Thinking and Creative Problem Solving
• Strong Client Communication and Collaboration
• Time Management and Deadline Adherence
• Attention to Detail and Quality Control
• Teamwork and Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Presentation Skills
• Flexibility and Adaptability in Fast-Paced Environments
• Brand Consistency and Visual Identity Management
• Project Coordination and Multitasking
• Discretion, Integrity, and Trustworthiness
Summary of Qualifications:
• Global Experience: Extensive experience in graphic design for global multinational companies, including working directly with CEOs to develop and execute strategic multimedia presentations.
• Creative Leadership: Proven ability to manage complex design projects, ensuring alignment with brand identity and strategic messaging.
• High-Quality Design: Strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design work, from print to digital platforms, ensuring high-quality and impactful visual communications.
• Collaborative Approach: Known for effective collaboration with senior executives and cross functional teams to drive successful outcomes.
• Professionalism: Demonstrated ability to maintain the highest levels of discretion and professionalism, essential for working closely with clients.