Ownership and collaboration on every phase of PD including market insights & ideation, defining and showcasing a creative vision, partnering with cross-functional teams on technical execution, and ensuring adherence to cost targets, project timelines, and budget.
Hi, I'm Carrie Gatlin.
Innovative Brand Strategist | Consumer Insights Specialist
I help global brands grow their market share and capture new consumers by designing the right product at the right time for the right price.
About Me
I'm an accomplished design professional with extensive experience in creating innovative products for leading global brands across the apparel, soft goods, and consumer packaged goods sectors.
I specialize in driving growth and fostering innovation through data-driven insights, consumer-focused design, and proactive cross-functional collaboration. I thrive in fast-paced environments, effectively managing tight deadlines, shifting project priorities, and diverse budgets.
With a strong track record of elevating global brands and accelerating growth across various product categories, my expertise spans team leadership, mentoring creative talent, achieving significant cost savings, championing sustainability, and building strong business relationships.
My Skillset
Having worked with companies and in teams both large and small has helped shape my unique abilities and my innovation-driven approach to design.
Extensive hands-on, in-market experience researching various product categories both domestically and internationally, analyzing competitive products and brands to fully understand their value, and identifying white space or opportunities for differentiation.
Dynamic and seasoned speaker and presenter, driving client buy-in through a unique balance of original storytelling and business savvy. Presentation experience includes Walmart, Target, Kohls, Macy's, Nordstrom, Belk, Meijer, JCPenney, Walgreens, and Urban Outfitters.
Clear understanding of the importance in honoring established brand identity and guidelines while also pushing creative boundaries. Able to balance consistency with innovative ideas to craft memorable moments that resonate with consumers and stand out in competitive markets.
Global experience includes weekly correspondence with sourcing teams & suppliers in Asia and Central/South America, domestic licensees, and collaboration with design teams in Canada & Australia. International travel to manufacturing facilities, evaluating quality and making on-site approvals ahead of product launches.
Mac Software Skills:
Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
Adobe WorkFront
Microsoft Office 365
Lectra FlexPLM
Zoom
Yola Sitebuilder
Figma (beginner level)