Laura Copenhaver
Design Director
Professional Overview
Laura Copenhaver is an accomplished Design Director with over 20 years of experience in the creative industry. She is known for her strategic vision, innovative design solutions, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. Copenhaver's expertise spans across various sectors, including retail, media, and technology.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Design Director at Ariat International since 2017, Copenhaver oversees the company's design department, leading a team of talented designers in creating visually stunning and user-centric products. Under her guidance, Ariat's design capabilities have significantly improved, resulting in a 30% increase in customer satisfaction and a 25% boost in sales.
Career Progression
Prior to her role at Ariat, Copenhaver served as the Design Lead at AAA, where she spearheaded the redesign of the company's digital platforms, enhancing user experience and driving a 20% increase in online engagement. Earlier in her career, she held positions as an Art Director at SalonDemand and Kadoink, contributing to the development of innovative digital products and campaigns.
Copenhaver's diverse background also includes stints as a Studio Manager and Photo Editor at Ed Kashi Photography, as well as a Photo Editor and Graphic Designer at Salon Media Group, Inc. These experiences have honed her multifaceted skill set, allowing her to approach design challenges from a holistic perspective.
Academic Background
Copenhaver holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from the University of California, Berkeley, where she graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Brand strategy and visual identity development
- User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design
- Digital product design and development
- Collaborative leadership and team management
- Strategic planning and project management
Professional Impact
Copenhaver's design work has been recognized by numerous industry awards, including the AIGA Design Excellence Award and the Webby Award for Best User Experience. She is also an active member of the AIGA and frequently speaks at design conferences, sharing her insights and best practices with the broader creative community.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, innovative mindset, and proven track record of success, Laura Copenhaver continues to drive impactful design solutions that elevate brands and enhance user experiences. As she progresses in her career, she remains committed to pushing the boundaries of design and fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration.