Achievements in Design: My Unique Career Journey

I’ve been working in the design field for more than 30 years—a long time, I know! My career has taken me in many unexpected directions, most of them completely by accident. While in art school, I began working in the sign industry, never imagining I’d stay there for 12 years. Yet those years proved invaluable. I became the ultimate “Jackie of all trades,” handling design, management, customer service, and everything in between. During my time there, the business changed ownership twice, and it was incredibly rewarding to know that the sale from Owner 1 to Owner 2 was contingent on my staying on. When the second owner later retired, I briefly considered purchasing the business myself, but after 12 years, I knew it was time for a new adventure.

Next, I ran a small awards business for an inventor who could no longer manage it alone. He had developed an innovative product—instant photo awards—that I truly believed in. The company held a major government contract, keeping us consistently busy, while additional marketing campaigns expanded our reach into other industries. Once again, I wore many hats: marketing, design, contract negotiation, office management, sourcing—essentially everything required to run a business. All of this happened while I was earning my master’s degree. Let’s just say my social life took a temporary hit!

After graduating, I was recruited through a friend to work for the largest retailer in the world. By then, the awards business was being prepared for sale, and I was again offered the opportunity to buy it—but I was eager to put my newly earned degree to work. This sharp left turn lasted four years and, while retail wasn’t my long-term destination, the experience was invaluable. I managed a team of more than 100 people and gained deep insight into leadership, communication, and navigating diverse personalities—skills that have served me ever since.

My path eventually led me back to design through product management. For 13 years, I served as a Creative Director and Product Manager for a large German toy company with eight global subsidiaries. I began managing generic puzzles and games, as well as limited licensed properties. Over time, the U.S. business nearly quadrupled in size—even during a recession. Fortunately, puzzles, games, and crafts thrive when people stay home. As the company grew, a second product manager was hired to oversee the generic line, allowing me to focus exclusively on licensed properties. During that period, I worked on artwork and products for major licensors including Disney (Lucasfilm and Marvel), Universal, Mattel, Nickelodeon, The Beatles, Hello Kitty, Animal Planet, and Amazon Prime Kids, among others. From artwork and contracts to product launches, marketing, displays, and budgets, I was involved in every aspect of the process. The role challenged me both creatively and analytically—the perfect balance. One of my products was even added to the Disney Archives, an honor I’ll always treasure.

In May 2020, after 13 years, I was ready for a change. Job hunting during a pandemic wasn’t easy, but I landed a short-term contract as a Marketing Manager at a home décor company. It was a great learning experience, and when it ended, I was ready for the next chapter.

Until January of 2026, I worked in the auto remarketing industry as the Marketing Director for an auto transport company. When I joined, there was little in the way of a formal marketing program. I built one from the ground up and helped position the company as a nationally recognized brand. In 2024, I was honored with a national Women in Remarketing award—an achievement I’m incredibly proud of and grateful for. Unfortunately, I was laid off and am now looking for a new adventure!

Outside of work, I live in the wilds of New Hampshire with my baseball historian and author boyfriend, and our neurotic Border Collie. We love our quiet corner of the world and are always looking forward to our next adventure—usually in my fully decked-out Jeep Wrangler.

If you would like to contact me, you can do so at:

mmcclung13@gmail.com

And remember, eat glitter for breakfast and you will shine all day!

Melissa