Ryan Stanfield, Design Director at Kaizen Brand Evolution, spoke with the final year GDI students to provide advice for starting off a career in Graphic Design. Stanfield began his career working for the marketing team at channel 4 for a year. He also created designs for advertising studios including Lyle Bailie producing the DOE advertisements.

Stanfield currently works in Kaizen Brand Evolution as Design Director. Kaizen specialises in Brand Identity, Graphic Design, Digital, Packaging, Websites and Animation. Kaizen has 12 designers of all levels and skillsets.

Stanfield discussed how a graduating student may start off their graphic design career, he suggested that a graduate should take any opportunity that they get – this helps to expand their portfolio and build experience. Stanfield also stressed the importance of having an up-to-date portfolio which showcases a wide range of projects. It is important to avoid using online templates to produce a portfolio or CV. ​​​​​​​

Stanfield kindly shared one of Kaizens’ most up-to-date projects which their branding team had just completed. 

Applegreen is Irish company which hosts quality retail and value offerings, including low fuel prices, food on the go and the best coffee on the road. Applegreen has 193 service stations across the country.

Kaizen was tasked with the rebranding of the ‘Applegreen’ identity. Stanfield described the old branding as tired and outdated. The aim of the rebrand was to create a bright, modern and digitally focused identity.