Graphic design is where creativity meets problem-solving. With years of print experience, I create purposeful, production-ready designs built on strong typography and compelling visuals.
Design Services
Logo Design
Business Essentials (business cards, letterheads, branded materials)
Signs, Banners & Posters
Tradeshow & Event Signage
Promotional Products
With years of experience in graphic design and print production, I bring both creativity and real-world expertise to every project. My work focuses on strong branding, clean layouts, and print-ready precision—so your materials look just as good in hand as they do on screen. This portfolio showcases a range of projects that blend creativity with practical execution, ensuring every piece is designed with both impact and production in mind.
My background in the sign industry gave me hands-on experience designing and producing everything from large-format banners and storefront signage to event graphics and custom displays. That foundation taught me how scale, materials, and installation all influence great design.
Today, I work as a Strategic Sales Manager in the promotional products industry, creating branded merchandise and custom packaging solutions—including corrugated boxes, presentation folders, and specialty paper products—all manufactured in the USA. I understand not only how to design for brand consistency, but how to design for production efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
From logos and business essentials to large-format graphics and branded promotional pieces, I create cohesive visual solutions that elevate brands across every touchpoint.
Resume
With years of experience in graphic design and print production, I combine creative expertise with a strong understanding of strategy and client relationships. My background spans small- and large-format printing, process improvement, and delivering high-quality work that supports both brand impact and business goals.
Currently, as Strategic Sales Manager – Midwest for Warwick Publishing, I work with clients across Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin to develop custom printed solutions that strengthen their brand presence. I focus on building lasting partnerships, understanding each client’s unique challenges, and delivering tailored products that create real, measurable results.
Experience
Freelance Graphic Designer
Dec 2009 - Present
Strategic Sales Manager - Midwest
Warwick Publishing Company
Mar 2024 - Present
Outside Sales Representative
FASTSIGNS
Oct 2023 - Mar 2025 · 1 yr 6 mos
Wide Format Printer &
Graphic Designer
Aurora Fastprint, Inc.
Jun 2018 - Mar 2023 · 4 yrs 10 mos
Project Coordinator
Brooke Graphics
Jul 2016 - Jun 2018 · 2 yrs
Art Coordinator / Art Assistant
Orbus Exhibit & Display Group
Jan 2016 - Jul 2016 · 7 mos
Graphic Design &
Print Production Lead
JC Schultz Enterprise (Flagsource)
Mar 2012 - Dec 2013 · 1 yr 10 mos
Project Coordinator, Program Manager and Graphic Designer Image-Forward, Inc
Jun 2007 - Dec 2009 · 2 yrs 7 mos
Education
Associates Degree
Elgin Community College
Elgin, IL
Trained Advertising Specialist Certification
Promotional Products Association International (PPAI)
3M Basic Training Course
Geek Wraps
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Skills
I consult with clients on branding, marketing, and promotional products, helping them identify the best solutions to meet their goals. I also manage strong relationships with trusted distributors—providing accurate estimates and strategically coordinating production to ensure every project is delivered on time and in the client’s hands as promised.
Software
Microsoft: Word, Excel
Adobe: Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop,
Testimonials
“It’s my pleasure to recommend Mike, a colleague and friend whom I’ve had the privilege of knowing for many years. Without a doubt, Michael stands out as one of the most naturally gifted sales professionals and graphic artists I’ve ever encountered.
In the realm of sales, his talent is truly remarkable. His knack for understanding client needs, building meaningful relationships, and driving business growth is nothing short of extraordinary. What sets him apart is not just his ability to sell but his genuine desire to help clients succeed, always approaching every interaction with integrity and sincerity.”
“I give Michael my very highest recommendation. He is smart, energetic, detail-oriented and has very good “people” skills. His project management always made me look better.”
“Michael demonstrated confidence both within groups and as an individual. He completed tasks efficiently with little to no need for additional clarification. Michael was always highly-liked and a valuable asset to the company.”
Contact
Michael Wickham
With years of experience in graphic design for both small and wide format printing, I have expertise in client relationship management, customer satisfaction and retention, and experience contributing to strategic planning while delivering improvements in processes, productivity, and costs. My portfolio ranges from fortune 500 companies to small business, and local fine artists. Ultimately, my outlook in design is about creating memorable images that stay fresh and current while standing out form the crowd.
My first real job post college was for a local retail signage company where I worked with project architects and construction superintendents to create large format signage and window display graphics for Walgreens stores and Take Care Health Clinics nationwide. I scheduled site surveys, production and installation of all new and replacement signage and graphics. After that I moved on to work for a flag and banner company, small print shops, a large trade show and event display company, and then I eventually found my way back to work as a project coordinator at a retail & trade show sign company. While working for them I coordinated the order entry, graphic production, installation and nationwide shipping logistics for new, retrofit and seasonal refresh of retail signage for New Balance, Jim Beam, Sears, Nike, For Eyes and many more clients large and small.
Please contact me to see what we can kind of work we accomplish together.