Throughout my career I have learnt to be comfortable being uncomfortable and have continually tried to push myself. From moving to Dubai for a job, to standing in front of groups of people to teach (both of which terrified me to begin with) I have always strived to be proactive and challenge myself. My focus throughout my career has been to know that I am making a difference through both the work that I’m doing and to the people that I work alongside.
Head of Design,
Graphic Design Studio,
National Theatre
May 2022–Current
As Head of the department, I lead the strategic vision and am responsible for all creative output of the Graphic Design Studio ensuring that it is both creative in thinking and commercial in its outlook. Leading my team of seven, building relationships with departments, and championing design within the organisation are where I place my focus.
Key responsibilities
Deliver a brand refresh across the whole organisation through 2023
Work alongside the Marketing team and the Content Production Studio to create and deliver inspiring campaign ideas for National Theatre productions, that can engage a wider and more diverse audience.
Cultivate an inspiring and collaborative studio team dynamic that produces creatively ambitious ideas by modelling best practice ways of working.
Work collaboratively with key internal and external stakeholders.
Cultivate an inspiring and collaborative studio team dynamic that produces creatively ambitious ideas by modelling best practice ways of working.
Support the Studio Manager in developing and refining processes that streamline workflow, promote cross-functional ways of working and maximise efficiency across the department.
Design Director,
Graphic Design Studio,
National Theatre
August 2018–April 2022
The role of Design Director is focused on leading by doing. From the art direction and concepts for show campaign, to being the brand guardian, I design, manage and oversee projects. My role is about collaborating and uniting departments and I’m also responsible for inspiring and nurturing the team and for building the culture in which we work.
Key responsibilities
Brand guardian for NTLive and National Theatre at Home
Create integrated campaigns for shows from ideas through to execution, presenting to internal and external stakeholders
Produce and lead photoshoots making sure they are delivered within budget and on time
Work with the Studio Manager and Creative Director to organise, scope and define team requirements for projects
Line manage two Middleweight Designers and a Digital Designer
Freelance Graphic Designer
& Art Director
August 2016–August 2018
My main client during this time was The Bartlett, UCL. Working with the Head of Communications over the course of two years, myself and my partner, a writer, helped challenge what they thought they wanted. From branding new courses, to rethinking publications and finally a campaign which celebrated 100 years, we managed to work within the parameters of the brand whilst creatively disrupting at the same time.
I also worked on an ad-hoc basis with Nice & Serious working on the art-direction and strategy of projects for WWF, Unilever and Refugee Action.
Senior Lecturer, Shillington College
September 2014–July 2018
Shillington College runs short courses in graphic design. As the Senior Lecturer I was responsible for delivering lectures, running briefs and getting students portfolio-ready.
Key responsibilities
Teaching graphic design to people with varying skill levels
Training new teachers in how to organise and deliver content for the course
Planning delivery schedules for four teachers in each class
Presenting at open evenings for potential students
Main point of communication with 47 students, dealing with any issues such as health concerns, attendance or ability.
Senior Designer, Wardour
September 2011–August 2014
Wardour is a leading content marketing agency. Whilst at Wardour, my clients included British Airways, RNIB, Arup, EY and the RSA. I worked across a range of media, including print, moving image and website and app design. This role enhanced my skills to understand different client needs and how best to tell their story through both print and digital.
Art Editor,
HOT Media, Dubai
February 2008–February 2011
HOT Media is a Dubai-based publishing company. My clients included Virgin Atlantic, Etihad Airways and Formula One. I designed and art directed the Middle East’s highest-circulating travel and fashion magazines.
Education, Placements
and Courses
I studied BA Graphic Design at Northumbria University (2004–2007).
Placements included 300million, The Partners, Agenda, Landor and Nextbigthing.
Personal development courses
Upfront Confidence Course
RD1st Coaching Course
Foundations in Management Course
Skill-based courses
UX Introductory course at General Assembly
SuperHi Foundation HTML, CC and Javascript
Typography Summer School,
Signpainting
Bookbinding
Beginner After Effects
What people say
“I spent 3 very intense years working with Jen on helping The Bartlett overhaul our annual publication, The Bartlett Review, launching two institutes and helping define the visual identity of Bartlett 100, our year-long centenary campaign. Jen's understanding of who we are and where we wanted to go visually, was incredible. She was able to articulate through art direction, design and production how amazing and progressive our research is in different ways.
Having worked with Jen on a number of projects, they all looked unique, yet had a consistent thread through them which tied them into The Bartlett family. Jen has truly helped define what our visual output are and she has encouraged us to raise the bar. Jen is incredible to work with - her enthusiasm and laugh is infectious and I can't wait to work with her again in the future!”
Manpreet Dhesi, Head of Communications UCL