Michael Houlder

In my capacity as Art Director, Designer, and Illustrator, I held a pivotal role in overseeing the visual output for a versatile and cross-functional content marketing team. In addition to art directing and producing work myself, I managed and mentored a talented team of freelancers and interns. Collectively, we consistently transformed complex ideas into visually captivating narratives for Container Solutions and its associated sub-brands: "WTF is Cloud Native," "Software Circus", "CS Labs" and "CNT Patterns." Key achievements The consistent monthly delivery of an industry-recognised newsletter, "WTF is Cloud Native," featuring original on-brand illustrative content. Conceptualisation and delivery of several distinctive brand concepts for large-scale in-person and virtual tech conferences. This included conference concept, character design, web design and all other print and digital media assets.

In my role as a Senior Graphic Designer, I produced a diverse range of visual content for both print and digital platforms as a part of an onsite content marketing team. Collaborating closely with C-suite executives, software engineers, and the sales team, I conceptualised creative content for client pitches, social media, and multiple brand identities for tech conferences and open-source projects. Key Achievements Concept and delivery of several online tech conferences including for the "Software Circus" and "WTF is Cloud Native" brands. This included conference concept, character design, web design and all other print and digital promotional assets. Co-creator of WTF is Cloud Native monthly newsletter and associated brand identity Conceptualisation delivery of full brand Identity of CS Labs and associated open-source projects. Brand and Web Design of Cloud Native Transformation Patterns. Including website design, pattern illustrations and card deck design.