Matthew Harned is a seasoned Creative Director with a proven track record of driving innovative design solutions and delivering impactful brand experiences. With a strong background in the sports and entertainment industry, he specializes in crafting visually compelling content and strategic marketing campaigns that captivate audiences and drive business growth.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Creative Director at 500 LEVEL, Matthew is responsible for leading a talented team of designers, illustrators, and content creators. In this role, he oversees the conceptualization, development, and execution of award-winning digital assets, print collateral, and multimedia experiences for a diverse portfolio of clients. Under his guidance, the creative team has consistently delivered high-impact campaigns that have elevated brand visibility, increased customer engagement, and driven measurable business outcomes.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Matthew served as a Graphic Designer at 500 LEVEL, where he honed his skills in visual storytelling and design strategy. He also gained valuable experience as a Student Graphic Designer at the SIU Student Recreation Center and completed an internship at the Erie BayHawks, a professional basketball team. Throughout his career, Matthew has demonstrated a commitment to professional development, continuously expanding his expertise in emerging design trends, digital marketing, and creative project management.
Academic Background
Matthew holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from Southern Illinois University, where he developed a strong foundation in design principles, creative problem-solving, and visual communication.
Areas of Expertise
- Brand identity and visual system development
- Graphic design for digital and print media
- Creative direction and team leadership
- Content strategy and storytelling
- Campaign conceptualization and execution
- Multimedia asset creation (video, motion graphics, photography)
- Collaboration with cross-functional teams (marketing, web, social media)
Professional Impact
During his tenure at 500 LEVEL, Matthew has played a pivotal role in elevating the company's creative output and positioning it as an industry leader. His award-winning designs for clients in the sports, entertainment, and consumer goods sectors have garnered widespread recognition, including multiple accolades from prestigious design competitions.
Conclusion
With his exceptional design skills, strategic mindset, and collaborative leadership, Matthew Harned is poised to continue driving innovative, results-driven creative solutions that elevate brands and captivate audiences. As he progresses in his career, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of creative excellence and making a lasting impact within the sports and entertainment industry.
