Resume
Deanne Leigh Brown
Executive summary
I am a communication designer with experience across graphic design, digital content creation, online learning, and visual communication. My work focuses on making information understandable — whether through training materials, process diagrams, digital media, or practical visual tools that support learning and everyday work.
With experience in both creative design and education, I bring a balanced approach that combines clarity, usability and visual problem-solving. I’m comfortable working with a wide range of clients and subject matter experts to develop content that is accurate, simple and genuinely helpful. No matter the project, my goal is to create work that supports people and adds value.
Work experience
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ASSOCIATE LEARNING DESIGNER
Mackay | March 2025 - CurrentEmployed by CQUniversity in both learning design and tutoring roles. Over this time, I have supported the development of online learning materials, micro-credentials and digital training resources, while also teaching and guiding students across several design and communication units. This work has allowed me to combine my design background with my growing experience in Learning & Development, contributing to projects that improve clarity, engagement and support for learners.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Designed and developed digital learning materials including videos, graphics, animations, interactive modules, and written content to support online and blended learning environments.
Assisted in the creation of micro-credentials and structured online courses, including a full Education Queensland learning package built in Articulate Rise 360.
Delivered tutoring and practical teaching across subjects such as digital media, design, visual communication, digital publishing and communication design.
Supported students by explaining concepts clearly, offering guidance on practical tasks and assessments, and providing constructive feedback to help them build confidence and improve their work.
Worked closely with academic staff, project teams and subject matter experts to ensure learning materials were accurate, accessible and aligned with curriculum outcomes.
Created visual learning aids, step-by-step resources and simplified explanations to help learners understand complex or technical information.
Updated and refined course content based on learner feedback, results and project requirements.
Managed multiple learning design tasks and teaching responsibilities simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
Used a wide range of tools including Articulate Rise 360, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Thinkific, Moodle and other digital platforms to create and update learning content.
Contributed to the continuous improvement of course materials, focusing on clarity, visual communication and learner experience.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Co-developed micro-credentials for the BeDifferent platform within CQU’s Indigenous Engagement Division.
Designed and built a complete Education Queensland learning package in Articulate Rise 360 for statewide use.
Received positive feedback from students for clear communication, supportive teaching and helpful learning materials.
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SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Mackay | 2020 - 2023Employed by Black Owl Design as a casual Senior Graphic Designer. In this role, I have been instrumental in delivering outstanding design solutions across various mediums. From website design to social media graphics, brand strategies, product design, annual reports, billboards, and magazines, I have had the pleasure of working on a wide range of exciting projects. My contributions have helped enhance the company's reputation and solidify its position in the industry.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Successfully completed a wide range of projects, including website design, social media graphics, extensive brand strategies, product design, annual reports, billboards, magazines, and more.
Collaborated closely with clients to understand their goals, brand identity, and target audience, ackay, 2020 - 2023translating their vision into visually stunning designs that exceeded their expectations.
Played a key role in developing comprehensive brand strategies, ensuring consistency across all touchpoints and enhancing brand recognition.
Actively participated in brainstorming sessions and provided creative input to generate innovative ideas and concepts for various design projects.
Demonstrated strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in typography, color usage, layout, and overall design execution.
Effectively managed multiple projects simultaneously, adhering to deadlines and delivering high-quality work within budget constraints.
Utilised industry-leading design software, including Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), SquareSpace, Square, Canva
Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including copywriters, marketers, and developers, to ensure seamless integration of design elements into final deliverables.
Stayed up-to-date with the latest design trends and techniques, incorporating them into my work to deliver contemporary and innovative designs.
Received positive feedback from clients on the quality of work, creativity, and ability to bring their vision to life through design.
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UNIVERSITY TUTOR
CQU University / Mackay / 2017 – CurrentAs a tutor in Digital Media at CQU, I contribute and support the teaching staff and students of the school through the delivery of information supplied and personal experience.
COURSES
Print Design
Visual Communication
Visual Design
Digital Publishing
Digital Communications ManagementRESPONSIBILITIES
Study & understand the curriculum
Communicate directly with the head lecturer & course coordinator
Conduct & deliver tutorials & practical classes
Provide guidance & constructive criticism to students
Mark student assessment tasks
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FREELANCE GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Mackay / 2000 - 2017Deezyn has been my design ‘alter ego’ since leaving University in 2000. I have designed and worked on many projects over the years some of my clients include: Brisbane International Film Festival, Global Conference Organisers (Netherlands), Cabrini Children’s Society (UK), Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (UK), Telehealth, Queensland Health, PHN Darling Downs & West Morton. Locally, North Jacklin Motors, Out of the Blue Marketing, Tropical Exposure, Bowen Basin Mining Club, Friers Offshore Racing, Rolleston Coal, Xstrata Coal, Gardian, Minds Aligned
RESPONSIBILITIES
Create proposals and contracts for different design projects
Developed business collateral including logos, stationery, brochures, posters, advertisements, and websites
Developed and implemented designs to existing and new product packaging
Assist in the production of magazines and annual reports and dealing with ad sponsors, layout and design, proofing and coordination of print
Collaborate with clients to create vision, conceive designs, and consistently meet deadlines and requirements
Photographing clients for the purpose of headshots, holiday cards etc
Retouching, and restore images based on the needs of the client
Schedule meetings with clients to discuss project progress and review samples
Managing and completing several projects simultaneously
Consistently meet clients needs and deadlines
Sourcing, compositing, and retouching images for print and web
Prepared and sent final artwork to printers/manufacturers
Administrative experience in owning and running a small business
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RETAIL BUSINESS OWNER
Mackay / 2017 - 2023Fleabags & Co. is a small retail store located in Marian & Mackay City Heart, it facilitated small business and local artisans an opportunity to showcase and sell their goods in a retail environment without the overheads of doing it on your own.
I coordinated up to 85 vendors, with not only our brick and mortar store but also popup shop locations & market opportunities throughout the district and online via our website.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Foster small business relationships
Coordinate social media and online presence
Create advertising collateral
Provide guidance for participating vendors
Administrative duties associated with running a retail environment
Organise popup locations & shopfitting displays
Communicating extensively with vendors, agents & market coordinators
Manage & facilitating website articles, products & enquiries
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DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Mackay / 2007 - 2009Teamed up with a fellow local freelance graphic designer to create a design studio with a major focus on providing affordable website solutions to local small businesses.
Our clients included: Payne Print, Mountain Edge Retreat, MBB Queensland, Minds Aligned, Pioneer Lakes, Tackle World Mackay, Mt Pleasant Meats, Kerry Sea Designs, Jazz Party Hire, Trade Corp International.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Developing and implementing all aspects of web design, print design and advertising & media promotions for clients
Administrative and management skills associated with running a small business
All other roles associated with running and owning a graphic design business
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER/MARKETING ASSISTANT
London UK / 2003 - 2005RESPONSIBILITIES
Head of design team for a huge trade association, exhibition & awards night
Developed and implemented designs of posters, brochures, logos, adverts, direct mail pamphlets, invitations, newsletters, POS material, exhibition display and stands, screen and web ready images
Working within tight deadlines and strict budgets, devising means of cutting costs, working one-on-one with printers, collating quotes, negotiating price reductions and overseeing proofs and production of material
BA. COMMUNICATION DESIGN
James Cook University
Townsville, QLD 1997 - 2000
Inc. 1st Year BA. Visual Arts
Plus extra electives in 2nd & 3rd Year in Photo Screen Printing & Printmaking
SECONDARY SENIOR CERTIFICATE
Rockhampton Grammar School
Rockhampton QLD 1996 – 1997
SECONDARY JUNIOR CERTIFICATE
Mercy College
Mackay, QLD 1993 - 1995
Education
Achievements
Consistent High Achiever
James Cook University
Dedication to Visual Arts
James Cook University
Local Artist Award
Art on Show 2007
Highly Commended
Professional skills
Brand Development
Print Design
Book Design
Web Design
Social Media
E-Commerce
POS Systems
Learning Design
Budget/Planning
Event Organisation
Project Managment
Photography
Personal skills
Creative
Organised
Reliable
Fast Learner
Team Player
Time Management
Software skills
Referees
Amy Sherlock
Past Employer, Black Owl Design
amy@blackowldesign.com.au
0467 552 382
Jodie Currie
Client, Bowen Basin Mining Club
jodie@bbminingclub.com.au
0412 998 501
“I have worked with Deanne for many years in multiple different roles - designing websites, logos and Learning Management Systems. She has the best ideas and I always get great feedback on her designs. Highly recommended!”