In June 2005, I joined Integra Office Solutions, the UK and Ireland's leading dealer group in the Office and IT Supplies industry, as a graphic designer. Initially, my role involved the design of direct mail publications, two 400 page catalogues, packaging design, logo design, corporate literature and various smaller projects.

In February 2007, I was promoted to Creative Designer, and my role now includes some of the more high-profile work. I recently completed the flagship publication, a 44 page catalogue promoting the company’s own brand, and a 44 page IT supply catalogue.

I have continued to develop my creative skills, and working very closely with printers, have gained the understanding of spot/multi-ink colours, trapping procedures and overprinting methods.

In 1998, I joined The South Wales Argus, a Newport-based newspaper publisher. I originally started as an advert designer, which involved designing the smaller adverts, then I worked my way up to taking on some of the more high-profile ‘key account’ adverts, which demanded a greater level of accuracy, creativity and design.

I then progressed to a ‘Motors Designer’, part of a team responsible for the designing of motor adverts throughout the three regions. This required working to very strict deadlines, under extreme pressure, whilst maintaining maximum creativity and accuracy. I then took on further responsibility, involving the designing and laying out of the ‘Wheels’ motoring supplement, as well as the maintenance of the Wheels website.

I introduced many new ideas to the team, and in June 2003 was promoted to Motors Design Co-ordinator, and again in December 2004 to Regional Design Co-ordinator. As well as page layout and advert design, it was my duty to oversee two teams of eight people, and ensure the efficient, creative production of publications from the initial concept, right up until the time of print.