Hello, I'm James, a designer
based in Atlanta, GA.
Hello, I'm James,
a designer based
in Atlanta, GA.
About me
I’m James—a designer, a cancer survivor, a new father, and a husband.
For me, design is everything. It’s an experience that engages all the senses, from the satisfying touch of a perfectly crafted package to the thrill of navigating an innovative digital product. Design is holistic—it’s everywhere, shaping our world. With that comes a profound responsibility: to craft experiences thoughtfully and create with purpose, always aiming for something good and meaningful.
I’m deeply invested in design education. Students bring an unfiltered creativity that feels raw and pure. Teaching keeps me grounded and reminds me to stay open to possibility, to approach design with the kind of freedom that only uninhibited minds can inspire. This passion fuels my work with the Museum of Design Atlanta, where I sit on the Board of Directors. Together, we’re imagining what it would look like if a museum faced forward instead of backward—how design can not just reflect the world but actively shape it for the better.
Photography is another creative outlet of me. Every shot I take is an attempt to capture something real—an experience, a feeling, a story. Whether it’s a sweeping landscape or the depth in someone’s portrait, my aim is to draw you into my perspective, to let you feel it as I did.
Outside of design, my family is everything. My wife, Sarah Rose, and our daughter, Anneliese, are my anchors. Together, we pour ourselves into our community, leading small groups at Buckhead Church and striving to make a positive impact wherever we can.
If you’ve made it here, thank you for taking a moment to learn about me. I hope you enjoy exploring my work and website!
Experience
'24 - Present
Fractional Creative Director
As a Fractional Creative Director, I provide strategic creative leadership and design expertise to organizations across industries, helping them elevate their brand experiences and achieve business objectives. Leveraging over a decade of experience in design and creative leadership, I specialize in guiding teams and organizations through transformative design solutions. Strategic Leadership: Partnering with organizations to align design efforts with broader business strategies, driving measurable outcomes. Scalable Design Operations: Establishing systems and processes to streamline workflows, improve consistency, and support sustainable growth. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with marketing, product, and technology teams to create cohesive and impactful user experiences. Mentorship and Talent Development: Cultivating the next generation of design leaders through coaching and strategic team building. Design Execution: Delivering end-to-end design solutions, including UI/UX, brand identity, brand strategy and design systems.
'24 - Present
Board of Directors | MODA
Key achievements: • Philanthropic Leadership: Led a successful philanthropic initiative, securing funding to support the museum’s mission and further its impact. • Strategic Planning: Collaborate with fellow board members to develop strategic plans that align with MODA’s long-term goals and vision.
'24
Director of Digital Experince | Simpson Scarborough
Key achievements: • Digital Transformation: Spearheaded successful website redesigns for multiple clients, resulting in improved user engagement and brand performance. • Digital Campaigns: Led the launch of innovative digital campaigns that boosted conversion rates and brand awareness. • Design Systems: Implemented atomic design systems, streamlining development processes and ensuring consistency across digital properties.
'22 - Present
Education Chair | AIGA Atlanta
Key achievements: • Fundraising: Leading a successful fundraising effort that raised over $5,000 to support student-focused events. • Strategic Event Development: Developing and executing four strategic events for design students across the southeastern U.S., fostering their growth and transition into the professional world. • Student Industry Exposure: Organizing and facilitating a student trip to New York City for the AIGA National Conference, providing students with valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities.
'22 - '24
Board of Directors | Advertising for Change
Key contributions: • Fellowship Program Support: Helped with a fellowship program in partnership with the HBCU 2020 initiative, providing valuable opportunities for underrepresented students. • Digital Feedback Tools Development: Developed digital surveying tools to enhance program participant feedback and engagement. • Rebranding Initiative Leadership: Led a comprehensive rebranding initiative through a student-led course at Miami Ad School of Atlanta.
'22 - '24
Assocate Design Director | Goods & Services
Key achievements: • Client Acquisition & Revenue Growth: Secured a major new client for the agency, generating a significant revenue impact of over $742k in 2023 through targeted strategic relationships and adept client management. • Project Leadership: Spearheaded the conceptual development and successful execution of seven major projects within a 12-month period, demonstrating strong project management and creative direction capabilities. • Team Development & Culture: Fostered a culture of mentorship and continuous improvement, leading to the professional growth of four direct reports during the duration of my role. My leadership enhanced team cohesion and creativity, driving overall design excellence.
'21 - '23
Design Instructor | Furman University
As an Adjunct Instructor at Furman University, I led graduate-level courses specializing in brand experience and strategy. I designed and implemented a comprehensive curriculum that equipped students with advanced strategic design principles and practical applications. My approach ensured that students were adept at creating impactful brand experiences in real-world scenarios.
'20 - Present
Design Instructor | Miami Ad School
In my role as a Design Instructor at Miami Ad School, I have had the privilege of leading 24 diverse design courses over the past four years, covering key areas such as Design Thinking and Brand Experience. My focus has been on not only delivering high-quality education but also on actively guiding students towards successful career placements. Notably, I have facilitated the professional growth of several students, with three securing prominent positions in the industry under my mentorship. This role has honed my skills in nurturing talent and shaping future design leaders, demonstrating my commitment to both education and the broader design community.
'21 - '22
Design Lead | Goods & Services
Key Achievements: • Design System Innovation: Contributed to the development of JPMorgan Asset Management’s first-ever Design System, setting a new benchmark for design consistency and operational efficiency across digital platforms. • Enhanced Client Performance: Instrumental in elevating JP Morgan Digital's performance, resulting in significant improvements in online engagement and customer satisfaction. • Strategic Collaboration: Collaborated closely with the VP of Global Digital Strategy to direct the creation of over 30 digital campaign pages for JP Morgan Asset Management, significantly boosting our digital presence and expanding audience reach. • Internship Program Development: Established and launched Goods & Services inaugural internship program, which fostered a culture of learning and supported professional development for emerging design talent.
'19 - '21
Lead Designer | Public School Studio
As Lead Designer at Public School/Czarnowski, I was responsible for overseeing design direction, production processes, and client relationships for two major accounts. My role extended to supporting new business development, managing RFPs, and coordinating print production efforts. I also pioneered the company’s inaugural internship program and effectively managed relationships with various contractors, enhancing overall project execution and team integration.
'16 - '19
Designer | Contract
As a Freelance Designer, I managed a range of projects for entrepreneurs, healthcare organizations, and government agencies, crafting bespoke user experiences that addressed specific client needs.
'17 - Present
Cancer Fighter & Survivor
Overcame Ewing Sarcoma in 2017, enduring six chemotherapy rounds, 30 radiation treatments, and 40 plus days of extensive hospitalization. This profound experience has shaped my resilience and perspective. I am proud to say I have been cancer-free for almost seven years. This experience and survivorship has forever changed my life personally and professionally. Cancer survivors are some of the most resilient people I have met. I am so proud to be a part of this community.
'15 - Present
Contributing Photographer | Getty Images
I specialize in capturing compelling landscape, still life, and architectural photography. My work contributes to Getty Images diverse and dynamic visual library, supporting a wide range of creative and editorial projects.
'12 - '17
Commercial Photographer & Assistant
Specialized in portraiture and still life photography. Assisted on various SAG-affiliated movie and television productions, enhancing production quality and creativity.
'24 - Present
Fractional Creative Director
As a Fractional Creative Director, I provide strategic creative leadership and design expertise to organizations across industries, helping them elevate their brand experiences and achieve business objectives. Leveraging over a decade of experience in design and creative leadership, I specialize in guiding teams and organizations through transformative design solutions. Strategic Leadership: Partnering with organizations to align design efforts with broader business strategies, driving measurable outcomes. Scalable Design Operations: Establishing systems and processes to streamline workflows, improve consistency, and support sustainable growth. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with marketing, product, and technology teams to create cohesive and impactful user experiences. Mentorship and Talent Development: Cultivating the next generation of design leaders through coaching and strategic team building. Design Execution: Delivering end-to-end design solutions, including UI/UX, brand identity, brand strategy and design systems.
'24 - Present
Board of Directors | MODA
Key achievements: • Philanthropic Leadership: Led a successful philanthropic initiative, securing funding to support the museum’s mission and further its impact. • Strategic Planning: Collaborate with fellow board members to develop strategic plans that align with MODA’s long-term goals and vision.
'24
Director of Digital Experince | Simpson Scarborough
Key achievements: • Digital Transformation: Spearheaded successful website redesigns for multiple clients, resulting in improved user engagement and brand performance. • Digital Campaigns: Led the launch of innovative digital campaigns that boosted conversion rates and brand awareness. • Design Systems: Implemented atomic design systems, streamlining development processes and ensuring consistency across digital properties.
'22 - Present
Education Chair | AIGA Atlanta
Key achievements: • Fundraising: Leading a successful fundraising effort that raised over $5,000 to support student-focused events. • Strategic Event Development: Developing and executing four strategic events for design students across the southeastern U.S., fostering their growth and transition into the professional world. • Student Industry Exposure: Organizing and facilitating a student trip to New York City for the AIGA National Conference, providing students with valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities.
'22 - '24
Board of Directors | Advertising for Change
Key contributions: • Fellowship Program Support: Helped with a fellowship program in partnership with the HBCU 2020 initiative, providing valuable opportunities for underrepresented students. • Digital Feedback Tools Development: Developed digital surveying tools to enhance program participant feedback and engagement. • Rebranding Initiative Leadership: Led a comprehensive rebranding initiative through a student-led course at Miami Ad School of Atlanta.
'22 - '24
Assocate Design Director | Goods & Services
Key achievements: • Client Acquisition & Revenue Growth: Secured a major new client for the agency, generating a significant revenue impact of over $742k in 2023 through targeted strategic relationships and adept client management. • Project Leadership: Spearheaded the conceptual development and successful execution of seven major projects within a 12-month period, demonstrating strong project management and creative direction capabilities. • Team Development & Culture: Fostered a culture of mentorship and continuous improvement, leading to the professional growth of four direct reports during the duration of my role. My leadership enhanced team cohesion and creativity, driving overall design excellence.
'21 - '23
Design Instructor | Furman University
As an Adjunct Instructor at Furman University, I led graduate-level courses specializing in brand experience and strategy. I designed and implemented a comprehensive curriculum that equipped students with advanced strategic design principles and practical applications. My approach ensured that students were adept at creating impactful brand experiences in real-world scenarios.
'20 - Present
Design Instructor | Miami Ad School
In my role as a Design Instructor at Miami Ad School, I have had the privilege of leading 24 diverse design courses over the past four years, covering key areas such as Design Thinking and Brand Experience. My focus has been on not only delivering high-quality education but also on actively guiding students towards successful career placements. Notably, I have facilitated the professional growth of several students, with three securing prominent positions in the industry under my mentorship. This role has honed my skills in nurturing talent and shaping future design leaders, demonstrating my commitment to both education and the broader design community.
'21 - '22
Design Lead | Goods & Services
Key Achievements: • Design System Innovation: Contributed to the development of JPMorgan Asset Management’s first-ever Design System, setting a new benchmark for design consistency and operational efficiency across digital platforms. • Enhanced Client Performance: Instrumental in elevating JP Morgan Digital's performance, resulting in significant improvements in online engagement and customer satisfaction. • Strategic Collaboration: Collaborated closely with the VP of Global Digital Strategy to direct the creation of over 30 digital campaign pages for JP Morgan Asset Management, significantly boosting our digital presence and expanding audience reach. • Internship Program Development: Established and launched Goods & Services inaugural internship program, which fostered a culture of learning and supported professional development for emerging design talent.
'19 - '21
Lead Designer | Public School Studio
As Lead Designer at Public School/Czarnowski, I was responsible for overseeing design direction, production processes, and client relationships for two major accounts. My role extended to supporting new business development, managing RFPs, and coordinating print production efforts. I also pioneered the company’s inaugural internship program and effectively managed relationships with various contractors, enhancing overall project execution and team integration.
'16 - '19
Designer | Contract
As a Freelance Designer, I managed a range of projects for entrepreneurs, healthcare organizations, and government agencies, crafting bespoke user experiences that addressed specific client needs.
'17 - Present
Cancer Fighter & Survivor
Overcame Ewing Sarcoma in 2017, enduring six chemotherapy rounds, 30 radiation treatments, and 40 plus days of extensive hospitalization. This profound experience has shaped my resilience and perspective. I am proud to say I have been cancer-free for almost seven years. This experience and survivorship has forever changed my life personally and professionally. Cancer survivors are some of the most resilient people I have met. I am so proud to be a part of this community.
'15 - Present
Contributing Photographer | Getty Images
I specialize in capturing compelling landscape, still life, and architectural photography. My work contributes to Getty Images diverse and dynamic visual library, supporting a wide range of creative and editorial projects.
'12 - '17
Commercial Photographer & Assistant
Specialized in portraiture and still life photography. Assisted on various SAG-affiliated movie and television productions, enhancing production quality and creativity.
'24 - Present
Fractional Creative Director
As a Fractional Creative Director, I provide strategic creative leadership and design expertise to organizations across industries, helping them elevate their brand experiences and achieve business objectives. Leveraging over a decade of experience in design and creative leadership, I specialize in guiding teams and organizations through transformative design solutions. Strategic Leadership: Partnering with organizations to align design efforts with broader business strategies, driving measurable outcomes. Scalable Design Operations: Establishing systems and processes to streamline workflows, improve consistency, and support sustainable growth. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with marketing, product, and technology teams to create cohesive and impactful user experiences. Mentorship and Talent Development: Cultivating the next generation of design leaders through coaching and strategic team building. Design Execution: Delivering end-to-end design solutions, including UI/UX, brand identity, brand strategy and design systems.
'24 - Present
Board of Directors | MODA
Key achievements: • Philanthropic Leadership: Led a successful philanthropic initiative, securing funding to support the museum’s mission and further its impact. • Strategic Planning: Collaborate with fellow board members to develop strategic plans that align with MODA’s long-term goals and vision.
'24
Director of Digital Experince | Simpson Scarborough
Key achievements: • Digital Transformation: Spearheaded successful website redesigns for multiple clients, resulting in improved user engagement and brand performance. • Digital Campaigns: Led the launch of innovative digital campaigns that boosted conversion rates and brand awareness. • Design Systems: Implemented atomic design systems, streamlining development processes and ensuring consistency across digital properties.
'22 - Present
Education Chair | AIGA Atlanta
Key achievements: • Fundraising: Leading a successful fundraising effort that raised over $5,000 to support student-focused events. • Strategic Event Development: Developing and executing four strategic events for design students across the southeastern U.S., fostering their growth and transition into the professional world. • Student Industry Exposure: Organizing and facilitating a student trip to New York City for the AIGA National Conference, providing students with valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities.
'22 - '24
Board of Directors | Advertising for Change
Key contributions: • Fellowship Program Support: Helped with a fellowship program in partnership with the HBCU 2020 initiative, providing valuable opportunities for underrepresented students. • Digital Feedback Tools Development: Developed digital surveying tools to enhance program participant feedback and engagement. • Rebranding Initiative Leadership: Led a comprehensive rebranding initiative through a student-led course at Miami Ad School of Atlanta.
'22 - '24
Assocate Design Director | Goods & Services
Key achievements: • Client Acquisition & Revenue Growth: Secured a major new client for the agency, generating a significant revenue impact of over $742k in 2023 through targeted strategic relationships and adept client management. • Project Leadership: Spearheaded the conceptual development and successful execution of seven major projects within a 12-month period, demonstrating strong project management and creative direction capabilities. • Team Development & Culture: Fostered a culture of mentorship and continuous improvement, leading to the professional growth of four direct reports during the duration of my role. My leadership enhanced team cohesion and creativity, driving overall design excellence.
'21 - '23
Design Instructor | Furman University
As an Adjunct Instructor at Furman University, I led graduate-level courses specializing in brand experience and strategy. I designed and implemented a comprehensive curriculum that equipped students with advanced strategic design principles and practical applications. My approach ensured that students were adept at creating impactful brand experiences in real-world scenarios.
'20 - Present
Design Instructor | Miami Ad School
In my role as a Design Instructor at Miami Ad School, I have had the privilege of leading 24 diverse design courses over the past four years, covering key areas such as Design Thinking and Brand Experience. My focus has been on not only delivering high-quality education but also on actively guiding students towards successful career placements. Notably, I have facilitated the professional growth of several students, with three securing prominent positions in the industry under my mentorship. This role has honed my skills in nurturing talent and shaping future design leaders, demonstrating my commitment to both education and the broader design community.
'21 - '22
Design Lead | Goods & Services
Key Achievements: • Design System Innovation: Contributed to the development of JPMorgan Asset Management’s first-ever Design System, setting a new benchmark for design consistency and operational efficiency across digital platforms. • Enhanced Client Performance: Instrumental in elevating JP Morgan Digital's performance, resulting in significant improvements in online engagement and customer satisfaction. • Strategic Collaboration: Collaborated closely with the VP of Global Digital Strategy to direct the creation of over 30 digital campaign pages for JP Morgan Asset Management, significantly boosting our digital presence and expanding audience reach. • Internship Program Development: Established and launched Goods & Services inaugural internship program, which fostered a culture of learning and supported professional development for emerging design talent.
'19 - '21
Lead Designer | Public School Studio
As Lead Designer at Public School/Czarnowski, I was responsible for overseeing design direction, production processes, and client relationships for two major accounts. My role extended to supporting new business development, managing RFPs, and coordinating print production efforts. I also pioneered the company’s inaugural internship program and effectively managed relationships with various contractors, enhancing overall project execution and team integration.
'16 - '19
Designer | Contract
As a Freelance Designer, I managed a range of projects for entrepreneurs, healthcare organizations, and government agencies, crafting bespoke user experiences that addressed specific client needs.
'17 - Present
Cancer Fighter & Survivor
Overcame Ewing Sarcoma in 2017, enduring six chemotherapy rounds, 30 radiation treatments, and 40 plus days of extensive hospitalization. This profound experience has shaped my resilience and perspective. I am proud to say I have been cancer-free for almost seven years. This experience and survivorship has forever changed my life personally and professionally. Cancer survivors are some of the most resilient people I have met. I am so proud to be a part of this community.
'15 - Present
Contributing Photographer | Getty Images
I specialize in capturing compelling landscape, still life, and architectural photography. My work contributes to Getty Images diverse and dynamic visual library, supporting a wide range of creative and editorial projects.
'12 - '17
Commercial Photographer & Assistant
Specialized in portraiture and still life photography. Assisted on various SAG-affiliated movie and television productions, enhancing production quality and creativity.
Selected clients
Contact
Let's connect and create
something meaningful.
© JAMES HARRILL 2024
Contact
Let's connect and create
something meaningful.
© JAMES HARRILL 2024
Contact
Let's connect and create something meaningful.
© JAMES HARRILL 2024