About me

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Production Assistant.

My CV shows a candidate with a strong track record in publishing. I am eager to transfer my skills and take my career in a new and exciting direction. I would be a great fit for the position of Production Assistant, and take with me a wealth of transferrable skills - and, because of my solid background in the publishing industry, take with me skills beyond those specified in the job description.

In my previous role as Publishing Executive, it was my responsibility to lead on all in-house design requests. The small in-house design and publishing team was somewhat out of proportion with the size of the organisation ( employees) and the large volume of design briefs my small team serviced. Using existing skills, and through on-going training, I am always abreast of the latest software and the latest printing techniques. This approach enabled me to increase the volume of design and production being channelled in-house, resulting in savings of almost £250k (identified by Senior Management Team for year 2009/2010).

An example of a project in which I played a key role was the £2 million Perfect Day campaign, which ran in partnership with over 250 businesses and generated approximately £24 million for the Scottish economy - with total reach exceeding 36 million people. This is one example of a campaign in which I was tasked with developing and delivering inspiring design throughout a geographically distributed organisation. My remit included (but was not limited to): brochures, corporate reports, leaflets, press adverts, exhibition display, web banners and e-newsletters.

I continually demonstrated excellent organisational and communication skills in the delivery of design elements for high-profile events and exhibitions. Many events were produced with partners ranging from government agencies to international film studios. The highest expectations were always placed on my creativity and accuracy.

As a copywriter, I am at ease writing creative and accurate copy.

I successfully implemented alternative production techniques by holding regular informal meetings with suppliers. This demonstrated how increased dialogue between internal departments and suppliers to better understand printing options, for example, could maximise production budget.

I have been nominated several times for staff recognition awards for outstanding design and for my abilities in project delivery.

I can assure you that my experience and qualifications, and my proven work track record, make me a 'perfect fit' for this role. Combined with hard work and unrelenting commitment, the role of Assistant Designer would also allow me the opportunity for professional and personal growth.

Portfolio examples are available upon request.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Ewan Shaw