lauren stiles
creative director
Email:
Education:
Bachelor of Journalism in magazine design
University of Missouri–Columbia
Current Role:
Art director of brands by day, chaos coordinator by night. I craft big ideas into bold visuals and campaigns that stick, all before school pickup, snack time negotiations and keeping 2 tiny humans alive and [mostly] happy.
about me
For nearly two decades, I've been passionately crafting compelling experiences.
I combine critical thinking, research, and innovative concepts to produce engaging and functional content across all media. I pride myself on being a fast, efficient, and timely partner, ensuring every project is not just delivered, but truly shines. I believe great work comes from great collaboration, and I strive to make every project not just successful, but genuinely enjoyable.
Think of me as your creative secret weapon, minus the cape – I save the cape for my weekend gig.
work experience
Nov 2020 - Present
Sept 2015 - Dec 2019
May 2014 - Dec 2019
Nov 2012 - May 2014
Feb 2010 - Nov 2012
Senior Art Director - VML
I lead the visual narrative for compelling campaigns and dynamic social media initiatives. My role centers on fostering creative collaboration, translating strategic objectives into engaging visual concepts, and ensuring brand consistency and impact across all digital and print touchpoints. I guide projects from ideation to execution, driving innovative solutions that resonate with target audiences and achieve measurable results.
Senior Creative Specialist - Grapevine Designs
Collaborated on a 4-person creative team in delivering comprehensive design solutions for approximately 100 sales representatives and their clients within a promotional marketing agency.
Managed diverse creative projects spanning custom product imprints, innovative product/packaging/kitting concepts, front-end web store design, and integrated print and digital marketing campaigns.
Spearheaded the development and implementation of corporate-wide HTML email marketing CRM templates, significantly streamlining communication efforts.
Drove the research and successful integration of a new, critical ordering platform, enhancing operational efficiency.
Freelance Designer
Delivered comprehensive design solutions across diverse client needs, including publication layout, print collateral, web design, and branding.
Served as a frequent contributing designer for SWIMMER Magazine, responsible for feature design and end-to-end management of entire issue layouts, from cover concept to production-ready files.
Collaborated with HarperCollins Children’s Books division to conceptualize and produce engaging children’s activity materials.
Fulfillment Designer - VinSolutions
Conceptualized and produced innovative CRM campaigns for auto dealer marketing, encompassing postcards, HTML emails, web banners, and custom landing pages.
Led the comprehensive training program for all new design department hires, significantly improving the speed of compliant marketing piece turnaround and optimizing build processes.
Senior Graphic Designer - Anthem Publishing
Drove the innovation of print and digital design elements across three key business and lifestyle publications (KC Magazine, KC Business, & Good Health KC).
Developed high-impact advertising creative for high-profile local advertisers and comprehensive marketing collateral for all Anthem products and events.
Conceptualized, designed, and launched Good Health KC, establishing it as a comprehensive health and wellness resource for the Kansas City community.