Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Aaron Decker is a highly skilled and accomplished Senior Designer specializing in the jewelry industry. With over a decade of experience, he has established himself as an innovative creator and product development expert, contributing to the success of renowned brands like Shinola.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Senior Designer - Jewelry, Shinola (2023-05-01 to Present)

• Responsible for conceptualizing and designing exceptional jewelry pieces that capture the brand's distinctive style and appeal to a discerning customer base.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to translate brand vision into tangible, high-quality products.

• Oversee all aspects of the jewelry design process, from ideation to final production, ensuring adherence to quality standards and on-time delivery.

Product Development Manager, AARON DECKER (2022-01-01 to Present)

• Spearhead the development and launch of new jewelry collections for the AARON DECKER brand.

• Analyze market trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape to inform design decisions and drive product innovation.

• Manage the sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution of AARON DECKER's jewelry line, ensuring optimal efficiency and profitability.

Jewelry Designer, AARON DECKER (2012-01-01 to Present)

• Conceptualize and design unique jewelry pieces that reflect the brand's distinct aesthetic and cater to the preferences of a discerning clientele.

• Collaborate with craftspeople and manufacturers to bring design concepts to life, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail.

• Continuously explore new techniques, materials, and design approaches to push the boundaries of jewelry design.

Career Progression

Prior to his current roles, Aaron held several positions that honed his expertise in the jewelry industry, including:

• Product Development Manager - Jewelry, Shinola (2022-04-01 to 2024-05-01)

• Product Developer - Jewelry Services Manager, Shinola (2018-03-01 to 2022-05-01)

• Advisor, HANDSHAKE 4 (2017-01-01 to 2022-02-01)

• Instructor, Fritz and Friends (2015-09-01 to 2018-05-01)

• Sales Associate, Willy's Detroit (2015-10-01 to 2016-05-01)

• Department Assistant: Metalsmithing, Cranbrook Art Academy (2014-03-01 to 2015-05-01)

• Intern, Assistant, Sharon Portelance (2011-05-01 to 2011-09-01)

• Goldsmith, Daunis Fine Jewelry (2011-01-01 to 2013-05-01)

Academic Background

Aaron holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Metalsmithing from the Cranbrook Art Academy, where he developed his expertise in advanced jewelry-making techniques and materials.

Areas of Expertise

• Jewelry design and development

• Product innovation and brand strategy

• Collaboration with cross-functional teams

• Sourcing and manufacturing process optimization

• Trend analysis and market research

• Leadership in driving creative and commercial success

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Aaron has made significant contributions to the jewelry industry, including:

• Designing award-winning collections that have been featured in prestigious industry publications and exhibitions.

• Driving the development and launch of several successful jewelry lines for Shinola, which have resonated with the brand's loyal customer base.

• Serving as an advisor to HANDSHAKE 4, a renowned jewelry collective, where he provided strategic guidance and creative input to support the growth and visibility of emerging jewelry designers.

• Sharing his expertise as an instructor at Fritz and Friends, where he mentored aspiring jewelry designers and makers.

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, exceptional design skills, and deep industry knowledge, Aaron Decker is poised to continue making a lasting impact in the jewelry industry. As he focuses on his current roles, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of jewelry design, fostering innovation, and delivering high-quality, distinctive products that captivate customers and industry professionals alike.