muhammad khurram toor

MUHAMMAD KHURRAM TOOR

Contact: +971 (567) 596 553, +1 (646) 322 – 4865

Flat No 306 Muroor Road Al Dhafra Abu Bhabi, UAE

E-Mail: [email protected], [email protected]

An accomplished & knowledgeable professional aiming for assignments in Graphic Designing with an organization of high repute

Location Preference: Australia/New Zealand/Middle East/ USA/ Canada

SKILLS SET
PROFILE SUMMARY
Graphics

Adobe

Freelance

Team Management

Client Relationship Management

Social Media

Marketing & Promotion

Digital Marketing

Business Development

v A competent professional with over 13 years of experience in Media Management, Publishing, Graphic designing and Photographic Department

v Demonstrated abilities in effective monitoring & analysis of business

v Proficient in supervising all project activities including providing technical inputs for better business practices

v Creating visual concepts, by hand or using computer software, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers

v Skilled in handling and maintaining highly confidential and sensitive information

v Liaising with clients, senior level executives and other vital contacts

v Proficient in illustrating concepts by designing rough layout of art and copy regarding arrangement, size, type size and style, and related aesthetic concepts

v Developing strategy and ensuring that the team members have the necessary education and training to accomplish exceptional performance

v Creating and sustaining a dynamic environment that fosters development opportunities and motivates high performance amongst team members

v Providing help and advice to customers using your organization’s products or services

v An effective communicator with good analytical, leadership, interpersonal, planning and problem solving skills
CORE COMPETENCIES

· Looking after end-to-end management of designing department as per schedule and ensuring timely completion & delivery of work to management

· Investigating and solving client’s problems, which may be complex or long-standing problems

· Monitoring progress as per scheduled deadlines for various tasks and taking necessary steps to ensure completion within time, cost and effort parameters

· Ensuring that all activities are carried out as per the requirements of organizational policies

· Liaising with clients or the art director to determine the scope of a project

· Creating images that identify a product or convey a message

· Extensive experience designing magazines, direct mail, advertising, digital media, web sites and collateral for a variety of different industries including health care, medical, telecommunication, self storage, natural products, real estate and energy related engineering Developing graphics and visual or audio images for product illustrations, logos and websites

· Incorporating changes recommended by the clients into the final design

· Reviewing designs for errors before printing or publishing them

· Proficient in combining art and technology to communicate ideas through images and the layout of websites and printed pages

· Maintaining technical knowledge by attending design workshops; reviewing professional publications; participating in professional societies

· Adept in:

o Graphic design techniques, equipment and principles. Design elements such as aesthetics, typography, composition, color theory, value, balance, line and space

o Operation of a variety of office equipment including a Macintosh computer, peripheral equipment and specialized graphic design and multimedia software

o Copyright laws and Proofreading techniques

o Digital photo manipulation techniques. Commercial printing standards and processes

o Basic budgeting practices regarding monitoring and control

· Expertise in Publication Design including Advertising, Direct Mail & Events , Digital Media, Creative Strategies & Campaigns, Managing Design Standards, Managing Graphic Designers

· Skilled in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Acrobat, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Serif MoviePlus, Serif PagePlus, Serif DrawPlus, Computer Hardware & Software troubleshooting

· Demonstrated ability to direct, train, supervise and mentor other graphic designers

· Strategic thinker and creative problem-solver with a unique blend of management and leadership skills combined with graphic design, layout, and content review expertise

· Extensive knowledge of effective graphic design in a variety of media (print brochures, posters, magazine layout, etc.)

· Exceptional organizational and management abilities to handle project logistics

· Expertise in managing multiple projects, prioritizing tasks, overseeing the creative process, and producing innovative products ranging from catalogues and brochures to campaign and marketing materials

· Inspiring & decisive team manager and collaborative player with strong liaison, communication, interpersonal and problem solving skills; and ability to expedite cross-functional dependencies, relationships with multiple clients, and resolve project conflicts

WORK EXPERIENCE

Feb’2018 – Present: Sign Express, Dallas/Fort worth
Role: Art Director/ Trainer/Photographer
Accomplishments:

• Planning, coordinating, overseeing and participating in the creation and design of a variety of artistic print materials and multimedia graphics to meet the communication needs of clients and offices including print-ready brochures, booklets, posters, flyers, handbooks, logos, certificates, business cards, ads, banners, maps, charts designs

• Determined size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy

• Trained and mentored office staff and achieved significant improvements in their productivity

• Supervised and managed media library

• Managed more than 10 employees, scheduled work hours, resolved conflicts, and determined project costs

Studied illustrations and photographs to plan presentation of materials, products, and services

• Operate router for cutting Channel Letters, operate large scale printer troubleshoot and have good knowledge of operation

Jun’2014 – Feb’ 2018: Parsons Corporation (Ministry of Housing PMO) Middle East – Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
Role: Creative Lead Graphic Design

Accomplishments:

• Steered efforts in consulting with clients to discuss graphic arts needs, goals, and budgetary requirements and target audiences; provide creative and artistic ideas to clients and explain proper aesthetic, artistic and graphic techniques and processes

• Planning, designing and executing graphic designs for various media

• Overseeing and maintaining computerized records and files of clip art, finished jobs, photography, logos and electronic signatures; assuring files are properly backed up to server; prepare reports related to assigned activities as directed

• Analyzing client feedback on product usability, referral statistics and internal data

• Recommending and facilitating changes in the current implementation process, working with product management team to accomplish company’s goals

• Designed :

o Interfaces for Riyadh Metro which includes (Screens of Ticketing system, Add screens for Advertisement etc)

o User interface for web based products as part of the product development team

o Interfaces using dashboard for reporting, Web viewing, generating PDFs for the Ministry of Housing

o Interfaces for Intranet for the Ministry of Housing website

· Experienced in core concept development, storyboarding, and web site content management by using skills in illustration, logo design, graphic design, page layout.

Aug’2013 – Jun’2014: Parsons Corporation – Middle East – Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
Role: Sr. Graphic Designer
Accomplishments:

· Liaised with clients to discuss graphic arts needs, goals, and budgetary requirements and target audiences; provide creative and artistic ideas to clients and explain proper aesthetic, artistic and graphic techniques and processes.

· Explored creative graphic concepts by interpreting client needs and conceptualizing methods to effectively communicate client messages to target audiences; provide innovative and creative design solutions while adhering to time and cost restraints.

· Oversaw and participated in the design and layout of projects; implement design elements such as balance and composition; select and modify colors, artwork, photography, type style, illustrations and other visual elements to best convey the message of the client; direct photo shoots with professional photographers.

· Proofread, reviewed and approved projects created by staff; present designs to client for proofing and approval; refine designs in accordance with client feedback until final product is approved by client; prepare and release artwork for printing via electronic files.

· Communicated with internal and external printers and arrange for file pick up or delivery; proof projects for accuracy before final printing. Planning, designing and executing graphic designs for various media.

· Managed computerized records and files of clip art, finished jobs, photography, logos and electronic signatures; assure files are properly backed up to server; prepare reports related to assigned activities as directed.

· Designed and created visuals for video productions and broadcasts using graphics hardware and software. Monitor and maintain inventory levels of supplies and equipment; estimate and order appropriate amounts of supplies necessary for daily operations. Operate a Macintosh computer and peripheral equipment such as a printer and scanner and a wide range of specialized graphic design and publishing software.

· Communicated with District administrators, personnel, vendors and other outside organizations to coordinate activities, resolve issues and exchange information.

· Played a key role in research, evaluation and developing recommendations regarding the purchase of graphic arts equipment, software, vendor proposals and service contracts; prepare recommendations to improve operational effectiveness and minimize costs.

· Participated in the development of the unit’s preliminary annual budget; monitor and control expenditures in accordance with established limitations.

· Operated a variety of office equipment including a copier and fax machine; drive a vehicle to conduct work.

· Attended and participated in meetings, conferences and seminars related to assigned activities to maintain current knowledge of advances in the field. Provide trainings and conduct workshops for students and District staff regarding the field of Graphic Arts and graphic arts services provided by the Office.

· Assisted in pre- and post-production activities including set-up and operation of audio, video and lighting and other studio equipment as needed; provide graphic arts and set design assistance during productions; assist in the design, set up and construction of studio sets and moving furniture and equipment.

· Created and produced signs, illustrations and other graphics by hand as needed

Aug’2005 – Aug’2013: Royal Commission Colleges & Institutes at Yanbu, Saudi Arabia
Role: Graphic Specialist/Instructor/Photographer
Accomplishments:

• Created designs, concepts, and sample layouts based on knowledge of layout principles and aesthetic design concepts

• Prepared illustrations and rough sketches of material, discussed them with clients and supervisors and made necessary changes

• Designed Visualized websites with the help of developers [www.yic.edu.sa, www.yti.edu.sa, www.yuc.edu.sa]

• Determined size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy

• Trained and mentored student & instructors and achieved significant improvements in their productivity

• Produced still and animated graphics for on-air and taped portions of local college activities broadcasts, using electronic video equipment

• Supervised and managed documentary & lecture videos for a library

• Managed more than 10 employees, scheduled work hours, resolved conflicts, and determined project costs

• Studied illustrations and photographs to plan presentation of materials, products, and services

• Successfully managed all the projects assigned. Keyed information into computer equipment to create layouts for client and supervisor. Developed graphics and layouts for product illustrations, logos, and Internet websites

• Liaised with clients to discuss and determine layout design

• Drew and printed charts, graphs, illustrations, and other artwork, using computer

• Reviewed final layouts and suggested improvements as needed

• Photographed layouts, using camera, to make layout prints for supervisors and clients

• Prepared notes and instructions for workers who assembled and prepared final layouts for printing.

• Was responsible for all the Print, Web and Electronic media

• Wrote book on Photoshop CS and Photoshop 7.0 and designed syllabus for beginners and advanced Photoshop users thereby checking ability of the students to face the challenges of job market

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

v Nov’ 2004– Aug’2005: Hub Rays Advertising, Karachi as Graphic Designer
v 2004– Nov’ 2004: Ornate Advertising, Tariq Road Karachi as Graphic Designer
v 2003–2004: C & N Associates, Doha Qatar as Graphic Designer
v 2002–2003: Arena Multimedia, F.B Area Pakistan as Graphic Designer (Internee)
v 2001–2002: Al Khair Computers, Pakistan as Technical Support
v 1998–2000: Prime Tech Systems, Pakistan as Web Designer/Supervisor
v 1997–1998: KPMG Peat Marwick, Pakistan as Computer Programmer
EDUCATION

· BS (Information Technology) from Preston Kohat University in 2006

· DIM (Multimedia) from Arena Multimedia in 2003

· Advancing Professional Construction and Program Management Worldwide (CMAA)

· Intermediate from Karachi Board 1999

IT SKILLS

· Well versed with MS Office and Internet Applications

· MCP Course

· Diploma in Oracle Developer 2000

· Certificate in COBOL (ANSC) / Visual Basic / Ms Front Page

· Certificate in A+ / Online Certifications

· Hardware Maintenance, Windows Support

· Online Certifications for:

o Adobe Photoshop 7.0

o Adobe Photoshop CS 3

o Adobe In Design 5.5

o Windows Troubleshooting professional

o Comptia A+ certified professional

o Adobe Indesign from Parsons University

o Home Networking with Microsoft Windows XP from Parsons University

o Information security and the Internet from Parsons University

· Introduction to information security Parsons University

OTHER SKILLS

· ADOBE: Adobe Photo Shop; Adobe Illustrator; Adobe In Design; Adobe Image-ready; Adobe after Effects; Adobe Premiere; Adobe Acrobat

· MACROMEDIA: Dream Weaver; Flash CS4; FreeHand; Photography; Still & Digital

· SOUND EDITING: SoundForge4.5; Frootyloops

· PROGRAMMING: COBOL; Oracle

· SERIF: Serif PagePlus X6; Serif DrawPlus; Serif MoviePlus X6

· FREELANCE: Print Media (Calendar, Dairies, Flyers, Broachers); Hyper Media (Design and Visualize WebPages)

DOCUMENTARIES & SPECIAL ACTIVITIES

· Produced and Directed Documentaries on:

o The Hidden Truth, “They are among us” with my team HAUNTERS

o Shoak Ka Koi Mool Nahe for ARY (THE CITY CHANNEL) with my team HAUNTERS

· Advanced Photoshop Magazine for Designers

· Visualized, Designed a complete Magazine for designers.

· Completing the Magazine for final publication

· Website: http://www.advancedphotoshopmag.8k.com

RECOGNITION & AWARDS

· Performance Excellence Certificate of Appreciation (Yanbu Industrial College)

· Awarded a Shield from IMT Literary and Cultural Club (Yanbu Industrial College)

· Letter of Appreciation from Yanbu Industrial College

· Creative Vision Logo for Arena Multimedia Communication Design Competition

· Awarded second prize in Arena Multimedia Communication Design Competition

· Awarded certificate for making poster on Pakistan Independence Day

PORTFOLIO & WEBSITES

Websites
Role & Responsibility
Website Role
http://www.signexpress.com
Design/Photography
Printing & Sign Company USA
http://www.dclosets.com
Design/Photography
Local Closets Company KSA
http://housing.gov.sa
Design/Changes/User Interface Design
Ministry of Housing KSA
http://www.yic.edu.sa
Visualized/Designed
Educational
http://www.twozansurveys.com
Visualized/Designed/Photography
Construction/Engineering
http://www.esaadweb.com/
Visualized/Designed/Photography
Electronic Equipment Sale
http://www.tecnotime.com
Visualized
Watches / Business
http://www.shamrockcom.net
Designed
Event Company
http://www.innovationfk.com
Visualized/Designed
Consultation / Real-estate
http://www.roznamat.com
Visualized/Designed
Event Based Company
http://www.fikralbina.com/
Visualized/Designed
Contracting / Engineering
PERSONAL DETAILS

Date of Birth: 5 November 1978

Current Address: 606 W Lookout Dr. Apt# 134 Richardson, TX 75080

Contact No.: +1 646 322 4865 / +1 646 321 8007

Permanent Address: House R-62 Sector 15/B Buffer Zone North Karachi. 75850, Karachi, Sindh-Pakistan

Language Known: English, Urdu & Arabic

Passport No.: AA7996403

muhammad khurram toor Graphic Designer