Creative Leadership Through Service, Strategy, and Execution
My path into creative leadership wasn't traditional. I didn't attend design school or begin my career at an agency. Instead, I built my experience through entrepreneurship, public service, and a commitment to continuous learning. I started by launching Embie Design with my wife in 2011, building an online art business that taught me branding, marketing, customer experience, and entrepreneurship.
Those experiences led me into public-sector communications, where I helped establish the first structured branding system across 28 county departments, developed visual standards, and expanded photography capabilities. Today, I serve as a Graphic Design Manager within Creative Services at a Fortune 500 software company, helping guide creative strategy while remaining actively involved in design execution.
I believe strong creative leadership comes from balancing strategy, collaboration, and a willingness to stay connected to the work.
What I Do
My role combines leadership, creative direction, and hands-on execution.
I currently:
• Manage and mentor designers
• Help guide creative strategy for Corporate and State & Federal initiatives
• Lead large-scale branding and marketing projects
• Oversee external creative partners and vendors
• Support video, photography, animation, and event production efforts
• Continue contributing as an active designer
Approximately half of my workload remains hands-on creative work, allowing me to stay connected to both the craft and the challenges my team faces.
Notable Leadership Experience
Tyler Connect Conference
As creative lead for Tyler Connect, a conference serving approximately 7,000 attendees, I oversee the event's visual identity and creative direction. In 2025, I facilitated the development of a new permanent event brand and continue to collaborate with stakeholders and production partners to shape the attendee experience.
Brand & Environmental Design
I lead ongoing office branding initiatives across dozens of locations nationwide, helping create consistent brand experiences while supporting broader corporate marketing efforts.
Vendor & Production Management
I frequently serve as a creative lead for external video, photography, and animation projects. From kickoff through final delivery, I help align stakeholders, creative partners, and business goals to ensure successful outcomes.
Continuous Growth
I am passionate about lifelong learning and professional development.
Highlights include:
• Tyler Technologies Management Development Program
• School of Motion Animation Bootcamp
• Digital Photography Certificate
These experiences have strengthened my skills in leadership, communication, creative strategy, and visual storytelling.
Looking Ahead
I'm energized by opportunities that blend leadership, design, branding, photography, video, and creative problem-solving. I enjoy building relationships, mentoring creative professionals, and helping organizations bring their stories to life through thoughtful, impactful design.