RED DOG DESIGN CONSULTANTS - Key Persons
Alessandra is a critical thinker who loves solving problems through solid research and creativity. Before pursuing a career in design, Alessandra was a research scientist with a degree in Organic Chemistry and a PhD in Glycosciences. Since joining Red Dog, she has taken on significant design projects, predominantly working on brand identity, digital design, and design for print, often delivering complex multi-platform projects. Her scientific approach and meticulous attention to detail are invaluable in the studio, where she energetically contributes to improving design practices and protocols and promoting a collaborative environment. Alessandra's work includes reports for major PLCs and not-for-profit organisations in Ireland, such as Kingspan, I-RES, Clúid Housing, Dalata, the RDS, and Concern Worldwide. Her brand identity work spans various formats and most recently included the rebrand of Retail Excellence Ireland (REI), Pippo's brand identity and app design for Clamwiliam Health group, and the brand identity of Caru. Her systematic approach to design has also led her to play a crucial role in developing and implementing brand architecture systems for prominent corporate clients, such as Maldron Hotels and Clayton Hotels (Dalata Hotel Group), Laya Healthcare, Kerry Group, Davy Group, and AerCap.
Alessandra is a recognised presence in the design community, having been featured on sector-specific podcasts, articles, and webinars - and as a mentor on The Big Idea and the NCAD Graduate Portfolio Industry review. She is a member of the ISTD (International Society of Typographic Designers) and has served on the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI) Awards Committee and the IDI Council. In 2016, she earned a first-class Visual Communication honours degree from the University of South Wales. Her exceptional graduate project received the prestigious Grand Prix at the IDI Graduate Awards 2016 while, more recently, she has received recognition on national design award platforms such as IDI and the 100 Archive.
Qualifications
Hons. BA Graphic Communications, University of South Wales, 2016 (First Class Honours)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Carbohydrate/Organic Synthesis, Universitá degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Italy, 2006
Hons. BSc Chemistry, Universitá degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Italy, 2003 (110/110 Summa cum Laude)
Certificate in Introductory Data Analytics, UCD Professional Academy, 2022
Certificate - Adobe After Effects - Level 1 & 2, Pulse College, 2019
ICM Certificate in Web Design, Griffith College Dublin, 2017 (Distinction)
Alison Mills - Chief Strategy Officer
With more than 25 years of experience in brand, reputation, and corporate communications, and a strong focus on aligning brand and reputation strategies, Alison's track record speaks for itself. She is widely recognised for successfully delivering complex programs for multiple stakeholders within specified timelines and budgets. Her dedication and professionalism make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Throughout her career, Alison has collaborated with global leaders in some of the world's largest organisations, including Accenture, Microsoft, Dell, and Klarna. In the Irish market, her communications skills have benefitted the likes of Kara Connect, Critical Care Partners, Inclusio and Highfield Healthcare, and various public sector and semi-state bodies.
As part of our team at Red Dog, Alison has successfully delivered brand strategies for diverse clients, including the Irish Hospice Foundation/HSE, IIAPC, ATA Engineering, Dogpatch, and Clinch Wealth Management. Her brand strategy and corporate reputation management expertise are invaluable for managing brand repositioning programs characterised by complex stakeholder landscapes and challenging external environments.
Qualifications
BA in English and Linguistics, University College Dublin
MA in Communications and Public Relations, TU Dublin
As Head of Client Services, Ashley takes great pride in cultivating strong, lasting client relationships. With her extensive experience and expertise, she is a reliable and trustworthy resource, consistently driving projects to completion. Ashley's strengths lay in her ability to foster a collaborative environment focused on achieving first class solutions that deliver on the client's brief.
Currently, Ashley holds the responsibility of managing a number of prestigious accounts including Ornua, Kingspan Group and Origin Enterprises. She is currently working on her eight Kingspan Annual report, which strongly emphasises sustainability, reflecting the company's dedication to environmental responsibility
In addition, Ashley manages the IBEC account, collaborating on numerous campaigns and playing a pivotal role in the conceptualisation, media planning, launch events, and creation of engaging social assets. Her involvement ensures the campaigns effectively communicate IBEC's message and resonate with the target audience.
Ashley has successfully led multiple brand identity projects for clients such as Retail Excellence Ireland, Universal Music and Davy and is currently leading identity projects with Údarás na Gaeltacht, NIBRT and Foróige.
With her commitment to client relationships, and expertise in delivering innovative solutions, Ashley is an invaluable asset, consistently driving success and exceeding expectations.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Marketing, Dublin Business School
Diploma in Business Studies, National College of Ireland
Diploma in Digital Marketing, 2015
Previously based in Manchester, Charly specialises in brand identities, digital design, and art direction. Over the last decade, she has worked with a diverse range of clients, including small agencies, large in-house studios, and freelance projects spanning various industries such as fashion, hospitality, retail, and property.
One of Charly's key strengths is her ability to take the lead role on design projects, particularly in the realm of branding. From the initial concept stage to the final delivery of creative assets, Charly's deep understanding of brand development allows her to create cohesive and impactful visuals that resonate with target audiences. Since joining Red Dog, Charly has worked on several successful rebrands for Converge, Clinch, Jhpiego and Maeve's Bar.
Charly's passion for design extends beyond her client work. She actively engages with the design community by participating in design panels and events, sharing her knowledge and insights with fellow professionals. Additionally, her dedication to education led her to teach Graphic Design at Shillington College, where she had the opportunity to inspire and guide students from around the world. By sharing her practical experience and industry know-how, Charly empowers the next generation of designers and contributes to the growth of the design craft as a whole.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Surface Pattern Design, University of Leeds
Certificate VI in Graphic Design, Shillington College
Job Titles:
- Head of Digital
- Member of the Institute of Designers
David is extremely passionate about crafting the finer details within the crossover between print, motion and digital design and exploring ways to bring brands to life online while constantly questioning and striving to innovate and push boundaries through user lead research. David has worked with a diverse range of clients, including Kerry Group, Dalata Hotel Group, Kingspan, Glenveagh Properties, AMCK Aviation and Bord Bia. Currently, he is leading the digital efforts for new websites such as Behaviour & Attitudes, The Dublin Design Institute, and FutureLife (an international client).
David's exceptional work has been recognised, as he was awarded an Institute of Designers in Ireland Award for his design and build of the Newfoundland website for the Irish Traditional Music Archive. With his expertise and enthusiasm, he brings a unique blend of creativity and technical skill to every project he undertakes.
David is an active member of the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI), staying connected with fellow professionals in his field. He recently completed a Professional Diploma in UX design with the UX Design Institute and earned certification from Glasgow Caledonian University.
Qualifications
BA - Design, Visual Communication, DIT (First Class Honours).
Professional Diploma in UX Design - UX Design Institute / Glasgow Caledonian University
Debbie is one of Red Dog's most longstanding members, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. Her diverse skill set encompasses a wide range of projects, both in print and digital, with a notable specialisation in designing and producing Annual Reports.
As the lead designer on numerous impactful reports, Debbie has collaborated with esteemed clients such as the Irish Cancer Society, Uniphar, Glenveagh Properties, Pieta, Origin, and Clúid, among others. Her deep understanding of the intricacies involved in constructing Annual Reports allows her to deliver exceptional design solutions that effectively communicate the essence of each organisation.
Throughout her career, Debbie's creative prowess has been acknowledged through various industry awards, recognising her exceptional talent and contributions. Her work has also been included in the renowned 100 Archive-an annual archive that celebrates and preserves noteworthy and distinctive Irish design.
Qualifications
HONS B.A. IN VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS, NATIONAL COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN
Hailing from Nantes in France, Elena is a versatile multidisciplinary designer who uses her abstract thinking and artistic ideation to approach each project from multiple perspectives. She consistently strives to find innovative and distinctive solutions for her clients.
Drawing on her motion, print, and digital design expertise, she embraces a holistic approach, seamlessly blending various mediums to create impactful visual experiences. Her keen eye for detail and deep understanding of design principles allow her to craft designs that capture attention and communicate effectively.
Elena's unwavering dedication to her craft and ability to think outside the box have earned her recognition and praise within the design community. Her ability to transform abstract ideas into visually stunning and purposeful designs sets her apart and makes her a valuable asset to the Red Dog team.
With Elena's diverse skill set, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to excellence, she consistently delivers exceptional design solutions that leave a lasting impact on clients and audiences alike.
Job Titles:
- Content and Production Manager
Whether helping an organisation originate a new name, develop an effective campaign, or craft memorable taglines, John's knack for finding the best words ensures the right message gets conveyed to the intended audience. He has also helped clients like Tallaght University Hospital Foundation, Emo Oil, and Simon Community establish a social media presence or produce content for specific campaigns. John worked on the messaging and management of the Simon Community's 'Big Conversation' awareness campaign, which won the 'Video in Design' category at the 2019 IDI Awards.
With his extensive background in the print and advertising industry, John also brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, particularly in the production of large and complex reports that demand meticulous attention to detail, focus, and patience. He has recently contributed his skills to high-profile annual reports for organisations like Kerry Group, Glenveagh and Concern Worldwide. His ability to produce visually compelling and easily understandable content showcases his talent for distilling complex information.
John's diverse skill set and passion for precision and creativity make him a valuable asset to the Red Dog team. He is currently in the final stages of completing a Master's degree in Climate Change Policy and Communication at Dublin City University and looks forward to transmitting some of his learnings to client projects in the coming years.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Humanities, Dublin City University, 2013
Diploma, Social Media Marketing, FETAC, 2014
MSc Climate Change: Policy, Media and Society, Dublin City University, 2023
Despite spending much of her early career working for theatres in the UK and Ireland, Katherine brings a no-drama ethos to her operation of our studio. With a keen eye for detail and exceptional organisational skills, she tackles each day with a commitment to excellence. Her ability to juggle multiple tasks and her calm and composed demeanour make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Katherine's background in theatre administration brings a unique perspective to studio management. She understands the importance of fostering a creative and collaborative environment where creatives and project managers can thrive. She knows how to balance the needs of both the artistic and administrative aspects of running a studio, creating an ideal space for innovation and growth.
Katherine's expertise extends beyond day-to-day operations. She has a proven track record in budgeting, resource allocation, and scheduling, ensuring that the studio operates efficiently and within financial constraints. Her ability to anticipate potential challenges enables her to find practical solutions, keeping projects on track and ensuring client satisfaction.
Qualifications
Diploma in Project Management, Institute of Commercial Management
BA (Hons) in Public Media and Business Studies
Having joined Red Dog straight after graduation in 1996, Kim has long established herself as an integral part of the team, working closely with diverse clients and earning numerous accolades - including international awards. Her ability to consistently bring fresh ideas and award-winning concepts to the table is a testament to her versatility as a designer.
Kim possesses a keen interest in information design that captivates and functions effectively across a wide demographic. Her design philosophy revolves around creating impactful, straightforward, user-friendly solutions ensuring that the intended message resonates with clarity. Throughout her career, Kim's keen eye for detail and ability to deliver effective design solutions have earned her the trust and loyalty of clients such as Kingspan, Dalata, Davy, and Concern Worldwide.
With her impressive track record, unwavering commitment to excellence, and a genuine passion for innovative design, Kim continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the success of Red Dog, exceeding client expectations and winning awards.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Visual Communications, AIT
Job Titles:
- Founding Partner
- Managing Director
As the founding partner of Red Dog, Mary has played a pivotal role in nurturing the company's growth and maintaining its reputation in Ireland and abroad. Her unwavering vision and relentless pursuit of excellence in design have propelled Red Dog to achieve international recognition and receive numerous awards.
Mary's design achievements have garnered significant recognition and authority over the years. In 2015, she was honoured as a Fellow of the prestigious Institute of Design in Ireland (IDI), an accolade highlighting her expertise and contribution to the industry. Mary holds a prominent position on the board of the IDI and further solidified her standing by assuming the role of President in November 2022.
Mary firmly believes in delivering "creativity that means business," a mantra that underscores her commitment to aligning creative expression with the needs and objectives of clients. Drawing from her extensive experience in visual branding and its multifaceted components, Mary has successfully led prominent identity projects for notable organisations over the years such as Jhpiego (US), Ireland Funds, Irelands Presidency of the EU, Law Society of Ireland, TU Dublin and University of Limerick. She is currently involved in the rebrand of the Irish Cancer Society and Saint John of God.
Beyond her commitments to Red Dog, Mary serves on the board of The Merrion Fertility Clinic, and Red Dog is currently collaborating with the clinic on an extensive rebranding and website development project.
Mary's wealth of experience, leadership skills, industry stature and dedication to excellence make her a remarkable force in Ireland's design industry, ensuring that Red Dog continues to thrive and provide unparalleled creative solutions.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Visual Communications, National College of Art & Design 1993
Certified Brand Strategist 2020
As a leader, Paula ignites the team's passion for excellence, prioritising the quality of our output in everything we do. Using her immense experience to direct and design brand identity programmes, Paula has left her mark on a wide range of remarkable projects. She has worked with organisations such as TU Dublin, Davy, Ibec and the Law Society of Ireland, creating identity systems that capture attention and resonate with audiences. Currently, she is leading the redesign of the Irish Cancer Society brand identity.
Paula's exceptional talent was recognised early on when she received a merit in the prestigious International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD) Student Awards in Ireland in 2002. Since then, she continuously been pushing the boundaries of her craft. Her unwavering commitment to her team's full potential sets Paula apart. She believes in harnessing their unique talents and skillsets to craft solutions that exceed expectations. Paula thrives on delivering memorable identity systems that leave a lasting impression, regardless of the medium involved.
As an active member of both ICAD and IDI, Paula is deeply involved in shaping the future of design. Beyond her day-to-day work, she has served on the Board of ICAD and proudly represents Red Dog at industry events, fostering strong connections within the creative community. An advocate for active participation in Ireland's creative industry, Paula mentors graduates and supports awards celebrating excellence. By doing so, she ensures that Red Dog remains at the forefront of the industry, continuously pushing boundaries and setting new standards.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Visual Communications, DIT 2002
With over 23 years in office administration, Sandra is a highly skilled professional whose extensive experience and dedication make her an invaluable asset to our organisation. She plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the studio and provides unwavering support to our Account Directors. Sandra understands the unique needs of our design team and ensures they have the necessary tools, resources, policies, and initiatives to carry out their work effectively. Her proactive approach enables our team to deliver outstanding results while maintaining a harmonious work environment.
In addition to her responsibilities within the office, Sandra serves as the primary point of contact in our Finance Department. She manages and oversees the day-to-day accounts and liaises with clients and suppliers, ensuring that all financial matters are handled professionally and accurately. Sandra's attention to detail and strong organisational abilities guarantee that our financial records are well-maintained and up-to-date. She works closely with our Financial Director, Caragh Beggy, to streamline financial processes and contribute to the overall success of our organisation.
With Sandra on board, we can be assured that our office operations and financial affairs are in capable hands, allowing us to get on with what we do best!
Job Titles:
- Account Director - Branding
Shona works with major indigenous and global brands where her extensive involvement in branding, campaign conceptual development, TV production, outdoor, print, and digital campaigns is evident through her deep understanding of consumer insights, brand development, and effective communications.
With an impressive track record, including prestigious accolades such as adfx, IDIs, and ICADs, Shona brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, delivering award-winning campaigns and brand identity programmes. She excels in guiding multidisciplinary teams, focusing on client objectives while encouraging creativity to deliver outstanding solutions that meet the brief.
Shona has successfully led several rebranding projects at Red Dog, transforming organisations like Focus Ireland, AMCK Aviation, TU Dublin, and the University of Limerick. Notably, she recently managed the highly regarded rebranding of the National Youth Council of Ireland. With a firm grasp of strategy that facilitates a seamless transition to the creative process, Shona is currently spearheading projects such as the St John of Gods Group rebrand, the Irish Cancer Society brand refresh, and the ATA Group roll-out.
Qualifications
Hons B.A. in Visual Communications, DIT (First Class Honours)
Diploma in Advertising, Exec Stream, DIT
Mini MBA in Brand Management, 2023
Stuart has been an invaluable member of the Red Dog team since 2002. Prior to that, he worked in printing and publishing companies, colour reproduction houses, and design agencies in Dublin, establishing himself as a trusted expert in his field. As an autodidact designer and photographer, Stuart's passion for the craft has driven him to continually expand his knowledge and expertise. His deep understanding of the technology involved in various forms of print, photography, and colour management sets him apart as a trustworthy authority.
Stuart plays a vital role in the production of data-driven reports for numerous clients, including Concern, Origin, Ornua, Irish Cancer Society and Uniphar. His meticulous attention to detail and extensive industry experience ensures that these reports are of the highest quality. In addition to his work on data-driven reports, he also focuses on the design of technical documents, where his understanding of the intricacies of technical content allows him to present complex information in a clear and accessible manner.
Continuing his commitment to professional growth, Stuart is studying best practices in mobile-friendly websites and responsive design. This ongoing pursuit of knowledge reflects his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends.
Susan's expertise lies in delivering exceptional brand identities, design systems, and communication solutions that span multiple touchpoints, such as investor reports, internal communications, and campaign initiatives. Among the list of clients she has worked with are names like Kerry Group, Ornua, Origin Enterprises, Google, Dalata Hotel Group, AerCap, Irish Aid, Rethink Ireland, Avista, and Cluid Housing. Susan has been instrumental in leading a brand refresh and creating a comprehensive design system for Concern Worldwide. Additionally, she has been responsible for the successful brand creation and rollout of the new South East Technological University.
Susan's work in branding and design has earned significant recognition, with her projects being selected for the prestigious 100 Archive. Notably, she has also been honoured with IDI, ICAD and Transform Europe design awards. She actively contributed as a team designer in Facebook's design hacks and has been part of various design exhibitions, including the notable Creatives Against Covid campaign. Demonstrating her commitment to professional growth, she recently participated in ATU's Design West summer school programme and is pursuing a certificate in Design Thinking at the Institute of Art Design + Technology, Dun Laoghaire and a UX diploma with the UX Design Institute.
As an active member of the Institute of Designers in Ireland, Susan is committed to fostering the growth of fellow designers. She has mentored designers in the ICAD upstarts program and Design Skillnet's New Now Program. Moreover, she has sat as an industry specialist on the interview board for Technological University of the Shannon and at the NCAD Graduate Portfolio Industry review. This year she has the honour of sitting on the IDI judging panel.
Qualifications
HONS B.A. IN VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS, NATIONAL COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN
Professional Certificate in Typographic Futures - National College of Art and Design/Creative Futures Academy (Distinction)