Matthys Moss
Creative Design/Graphics Consultant
Johannesburg,Gauteng
Summary
Qualified Graphic Artist/Illustrator/Design Consultant with more than 20 years experience in the visual communication and publishing industry. Most recently working on a major assignment redesign one of most influential newspaper identities and its supplement titles in South Africa as chief Design consultant/Graphic editor. Setting guide book as a principle for the foundation for color usage, font usage, look-and-feel and the direction steering forward. Work experience included working in Spain, England, Canada besides being a illustrator, designer and graphic artist, competent in all major Adobe programs and software. Confident to take on the most challenging task and make it a runaway success given the opportunity. Traded a full time job for a consultancy role to be readily available for any freelance work with immediate attention. Numerous graphics and design concepts have won major awards for best graphic and best newspaper and news design. Eagerly waiting response to start. Results-focused News Editor with [25] years of experience and expertise in coordinating, assembling, producing and publishing tailored content. Excellent communication, planning and problem-solving abilities with forward-thinking approach. Track record of obtaining coveted interviews and capturing breaking new stories.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work History
National Sport Production Editor
Independent Media
Johannesburg
01.2017 - 10.2023
- Effective management of six national Sports departments and staff.
- Liaise with all editors.
- Conducted thorough fact-checking to ensure accuracy of information presented in publications, upholding credibility standards.
- Streamlined production processes for increased efficiency by implementing new editorial tools and workflow management systems.
- Developed comprehensive style guides for consistent formatting and language usage across all publications.
- Investigated new technologies and industry trends to stay ahead of competition, incorporating innovative approaches into production processes.
- Established consistent workflow for tracking project progress and ensuring seamless hand offs between team members at different stages of production.
- Spearheaded the implementation of a new digital publishing platform, optimizing production workflows while reducing costs.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams in executing complex publication projects from inception to completion.
- Implemented rigorous quality control measures throughout the production process to minimize errors and maintain high editorial standards.
- Collaborated closely with writers, designers, and fellow editors to produce high-quality content that met client specifications.
- Managed strict deadlines with effective prioritization of tasks, ensuring timely delivery of final products to clients.
Graphics and Design Editor
Sunday Times
Rosebank
03.2004 - 10.2016
- Effective management of Graphics Department.
- Assist editors and department heads.
- Create and supply of information graphics, art, illustrations.
- Liaise with all editors, section editors and management on daily basis.
- Developed eye-catching layouts for print and digital publications, resulting in increased reader engagement.
- Established cohesive visual identities across multiple product lines by developing consistent color schemes, typography choices, and imagery styles.
- Contributed to the development of marketing campaigns through compelling visual storytelling and strategic messaging alignment.
- Identified and flagged potential issues in project scope.
Senior Designer
Calgary Herald
Alberta
02.2003 - 02.2004
- Responsible for design and layout of News, Features, Business and Sport sections.
- Developed innovative design concepts, resulting in higher client satisfaction.
- Evaluated and selected appropriate design tools and software, streamlining production processes and improving output quality.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining strict attention to detail and adherence to deadlines.
- Streamlined design processes for increased efficiency and improved collaboration among team members.
- Mentored junior designers to enhance their skills and contribute more effectively to the team.
- Redesigned existing products for better usability, leading to higher customer satisfaction rates.
- Led creative brainstorming sessions, fostering innovative ideas and enhancing team performance.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of designs into final products.
Visual Editor
Business Day
Rosebank
01.1998 - 07.2002
- Manage Graphics and Design department.
- Liaise with all managers and editors on daily basis for maximum quality and output.
- Designed custom illustrations for editorial content, enhancing reader comprehension and interest levels.
- Created eye-catching social media graphics to boost engagement rates and drive sales.
- Revised existing materials based on client feedback, ensuring satisfaction without compromising artistic vision.
- Continually updated technical skills through professional development courses, staying current on industry advancements in software programs and design trends.
- Adapted designs for various formats, including print collateral, digital advertisements, email campaigns, and event signage.
- Developed visually appealing marketing materials to increase brand awareness and customer engagement.
- Implemented user feedback to improve overall design quality and functionality of digital products.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Fine Art
Alberton High
Johannesburg 02.1982 - 10.1985
Skills
Creative consultancy
undefinedTimeline
National Sport Production Editor
Independent Media
01.2017 - 10.2023
Graphics and Design Editor
Sunday Times
03.2004 - 10.2016
Senior Designer
Calgary Herald
02.2003 - 02.2004
Visual Editor
Business Day
01.1998 - 07.2002
Bachelor of Arts - Fine Art
Alberton High
02.1982 - 10.1985
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