Creative Strategist & Visual Designer Leader

AKENSHAI DIETRICH TOWNS

Creative Strategist Visual Designer Creative Operations

Lexington, KY

*********@******.*** 859-***-****

CREATIVE PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Creative professional with 15+ years of experience in visual design, photography, brand storytelling, and creative operations. Combines a Bachelor of Fine Arts with business analytics training to deliver data-informed creative solutions. Proven leader with experience managing creative projects, teams, and customer-focused environments across technology, hospitality, and independent studio work.

CORE SKILLS & TOOLS

Creative Direction • Visual Storytelling • Brand Development • AI-Assisted Creative Workflows

Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator, InDesign)

Design Systems • Content Creation • Digital Media Production

Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

Leadership • Team Building • Project Management

Business Analytics • Data-Informed Decision Making

Client Relations • Cross-Functional Collaboration

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Creative Director / Studio Photographer (Founder)

Akenshai Studio 2007 – 2019

Founded and operated a full-service photography and creative studio

Led creative direction, concept development, and visual storytelling for clients

Produced high-quality studio and post-production work using Adobe Creative Suite

Managed branding, client relationships, scheduling, and end-to-end project execution

Delivered consistent creative output aligned with client vision and brand identity

Specialist (Creative & Technical Solutions)

Apple Inc. October 2019 – July 2022

Delivered customer-focused creative and technical solutions across Apple products.

Supported digital content creation workflows, including photo editing and design tools.

Collaborated with team members to improve creative problem-solving and customer experience.

Recognized for communication, product knowledge, and creative insight.

General Manager (Creative Operations & Leadership)

Choice Hotels July 2022 – October 2025

Led operations with a strong focus on brand consistency and guest experience.

Managed cross-functional teams, scheduling, and performance development.

Oversaw marketing alignment, visual standards, and presentation of brand assets.

Utilized analytics and reporting to inform operational and creative decisions.

Delivery Driver

Amazon October 2025 – Present

Maintained efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.

Demonstrated adaptability, time management, and operational discipline.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Temple University

Business Analytics Certification

Cornell University

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