Hi, I’m
Melanie Rose O'Brien
Armstrong,BC
Summary
Proven design leader, adept in space planning. Spearheaded efficiency improvements and creative strategies at both IKEA and vis-à-vis Design Studio AB. My approach blends universal design principles with a positive attitude, driving project success and elevating client/customer satisfaction through innovative solutions.
Overview
19
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
IKEA Sverige Försjälnings AB
Country Interior Design Manager
01.2023 - 08.2024
Job overview
- Streamlined project management processes for increased efficiency and timely completion of projects.
- Liaised with Sales and Marketing teams to develop compelling range presentation materials, showcasing completed projects and design capabilities.
- Led a team of 3 designers and was matrix partner for other Interior Design Managers in 21 stores, ensuring clear communication and collaboration for successful project outcomes.
- Stayed current on emerging trends in interior and retail design, incorporating fresh ideas into unique customer-centric design solutions and retail experiences.
- Fostered positive work environment that encouraged creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement within team.
- Established performance goals for employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching those milestones.
- Defined clear targets and objectives and communicated to other team members.
vis-à-vis Design Studio AB
Co-Founder and Creative Director
09.2018 - 12.2022
Job overview
- Creative Direction on projects including residential interior design, workplace design and editorial management.
- Established foundational processes for business operations.
- Enhanced digital presence through company website design and social media content creation.
- Increased client satisfaction by delivering tailored design solutions that exceeded expectations.
- Elevated brand identity with design and execution of comprehensive visual strategy, encompassing both digital and physical mediums.
World of Working, IKEA Services AB
Global Interior Design Specialist
01.2017 - 09.2018
Job overview
- Coached IKEA colleagues in 5 different countries on workplace design.
- Oversaw rebuilds of multiple IKEA country workplaces.
- Led cross-functional teams to achieve company-wide goals, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- Strong cross-cultural stakeholder management, providing strategic recommendations to improve project outcomes.
- Evaluated employee skills and knowledge regularly, training, and mentoring individuals with lagging skills.
- Educated colleagues on organizational mission and goals to help service offices achieve success in their workplace design.
Inter IKEA Systems
Interior Design Specialist
03.2016 - 12.2016
Job overview
- Documented detailed layout and architectural plans adhering to building codes and regulations while maintaining aesthetic integrity of the overall design concept.
- Created mood boards and 3D renderings to present design concepts clearly to clients, facilitating informed decision making.
- Collaborated with architects and contractors to ensure seamless project execution, meeting deadlines and budget constraints.
- Coordinated installations of furniture pieces, lighting fixtures, window treatments, flooring materials, wall coverings amongst other elements ensuring cohesive final look.
- Sourced materials from various suppliers while maintaining strong professional relationships for cost-effective procurement options.
- Continually updated knowledge on industry trends and best practices through ongoing research, networking events, and workshops.
IKEA
Country Interior Design Leader
12.2009 - 12.2015
Job overview
- Lead the conceptualization and design of new stores and refurbishments ensuring they were in line with IKEA’s brand identity and retail strategy.
- Coached 3 freelance interior designers, helping them develop planning skills and improve design quality for retail solutions.
- Successful cross-functional collaboration, working closely with teams across Retail Operations, Marketing and Construction.
- Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
- Led teams of interior designers for build up and fit out of new IKEA store.
- Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.
IKEA Germany
Store Interior Design Manager
11.2005 - 11.2009
Job overview
- Streamlined project management processes for increased efficiency and timely completion of projects.
- Successfully oversaw the entire store design process, from initial concept and layout planning to final execution within budget.
- Stayed current on emerging trends in interior design, incorporating fresh ideas into unique client experiences.
- Led a team of 5 designers, ensuring clear communication and collaboration for successful project outcomes.
- Worked cross-functionally to ensure strong range presentation in the retail environment.
- Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
Education
University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
Bachelor of Arts from Fine Arts
04.1994
Skills
- Collaboration and Teamwork
- Universal design principles
- Space Planning
- Positive Attitude
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Computer Skills
- Team Leadership
- Active Listening
- Team building
- Furniture selection
Accomplishments
- Self-taught HTML and coded company intranet site.
- Supervised creative teams for successful store build ups, fit-outs, and workplace remodeling.
- Successfully met deadlines to remodel the home of the Swedish cultural attaché in Moscow, Russia.
- Completed IKEA's Management Trainee Program in Germany.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
German
Full Professional
Swedish
Elementary
Japanese
Elementary
Certification
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certification
- BCRPA Fitness Leader
Software
AutoCAD
Microsoft Office Suite
Adobe Illustrator
Timeline
Country Interior Design Manager
IKEA Sverige Försjälnings AB
01.2023 - 08.2024
Co-Founder and Creative Director
vis-à-vis Design Studio AB
09.2018 - 12.2022
Global Interior Design Specialist
World of Working, IKEA Services AB
01.2017 - 09.2018
Interior Design Specialist
Inter IKEA Systems
03.2016 - 12.2016
Country Interior Design Leader
IKEA
12.2009 - 12.2015
Store Interior Design Manager
IKEA Germany
11.2005 - 11.2009
University of British Columbia
Bachelor of Arts from Fine Arts
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certification
- BCRPA Fitness Leader
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