Hi, I’m John. I craft visual and navigational experiences that solve problems and connect users with solutions.
Experience
Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina
Creative Services Specialist & Graphic Designer
Canvas
UI/UX Visual & Graphic Designer
Shaw Industries
Graphic Designer & Multimedia Designer
Voodoo Games
UI/UX Designer
Jersey Mike's, SA Restaurant Group
Marketing Specialist & Graphic Designer
University of South Carolina
B.S.B.A, Marketing & UX Research, Cum Laude
May 2017
Liberty University
B.F.A, Graphic Design, Summa Cum Laude
Winter 2022
Google
Google UI/UX Design Professional Certification
Winter 2022
Education
Tools
Technical Skills
Graphic Design
Visual Design
UI/UX Design
Branding / Marketing
Logo Design
Print Publication Design
Web Digital Design
UX Research
UX Writing
Illustration
Photography
Typography
AI Prompt Engineering
Wireframing/Prototyping
HTML & CSS
I’m a UI/UX and graphic designer dedicated to crafting intuitive, user-centered designs that leave a lasting impact. My goal is to create seamless experiences where the interface feels invisible - allowing users to navigate and engage effortlessly. Whether through visually compelling digital design or precise, effective visual communication, I aim to deliver work that resonates, informs, and inspires action.
Currently, I serve as a Creative Services Specialist and Graphic Designer at the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), where I design visual materials that showcase the state of North Carolina to businesses, investors, and global audiences. From brand collateral and marketing campaigns to web and publication design, I help tell North Carolina’s story through a consistent, modern, and impactful visual identity.
My unique background blends creativity with strategy - holding dual degrees in Business Marketing & Research (USC) and Graphic Design (BFA, Liberty University). Combined with the Google UI/UX Professional Certification, this foundation bridges design thinking with business insight, enabling me to create solutions that are both visually engaging and results-driven.
Before joining EDPNC, I honed my craft across agency, in-house, and freelance environments. At Shaw Industries, I specialized in publication and web design, producing marketing materials and product-launch collateral. At Canvas Branding Agency, I developed UI/UX systems and branding solutions for tech, medical, and hospitality clients. Through my own freelance practice, I’ve partnered with diverse brands to create logos, posters, and digital assets that connect design vision with measurable impact.
This blend of public-sector storytelling, agency agility, and business strategy allows me to approach every project with versatility and purpose. I’m passionate about using design to help organizations grow, empower users, and turn complex ideas into simple, beautiful experiences.
I’m passionate about designing for impact - whether it’s helping businesses grow, making life easier for users, or solving complex challenges through creative visual communication.
Software
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe InDesign
Adobe XD
Adobe Lighroom
Workfront
Figma
Sketch
Midjourney
Canva
Spline
Turtl
-
I specialize in blending Japanese and Swiss design principles to create work that is minimal, clean, functional, and beautiful. While this is my favorite and most enjoyable style, I prioritize the needs of the user and client, adapting to each project’s unique requirements. When appropriate, I take pride in mixing these styles effectively to produce timeless and impactful designs.
-
Collaboration and communication are the foundation of my design process. I start by meeting with clients or stakeholders to understand their goals, target audience, and challenges. From there, I conduct research and brainstorming to define objectives and craft concepts.
For graphic design, I focus on layouts, typography, and visual elements that communicate effectively. In UI/UX projects, I create wireframes, prototypes, and user flows to test usability and ensure user-centered designs.
I use the Triangle Method for iteration—gathering feedback from users, clients, and my team, then combining it with my own expertise and instinct to refine and polish designs. By iterating and collaborating, I deliver solutions that are visually compelling, functional, and aligned with both client goals and user needs.
Let’s chat
Johnjpsaad@gmail.com