Bryan Zellner

Direction & Design · B. Zellner Design

Orange, CA

In My Own Words

Creative visionary with over 20 years experience designing all categories of sportswear, directing and consulting teams for some of Southern California’s leading Lifestyle brands. Keen ability to drive brands forward with innovative styling while maintaining brand integrity. Experienced in markets ranging from start-ups to mid-tier and luxury in Mens, Accessories, Denim and Novelty categories. Strong management skills that foster team collaboration while maximizing a company’s human and financial resources.

Work Experience

Direction & Design

B. Zellner Design

2015 – Present

A Creative Design consultancy providing companies with direction, product and branding. Establishing a brands DNA or designing into it. Providing a multitude of Design Services (including: concept, graphics, packaging, teck packs, marketing and sales assets, web design photography.) in the following categories: Lifestyle brands, mens, juniors, knits, activewear, outerwear, denim, accessories, print, etc.

Director of Design

Slake Agency

2013 – 2015

Slake, a creative consultancy and business incubator that specialized in transforming ideas, concepts and napkin sketches into products and businesses. Developed and delivered creative solutions that strengthened our clients’ market distinction and leadership position. Responsible for: strategy, direction, and style, from concept through production. Traveled globally to manage the product development process ensuring quality, standards and on-time delivery. Co-founded Unofish, a sports luxury brand with emphasis on leather goods that was featured in Details, Nylon and Hypebeast.

Director of Design

Ultimate Brand Management

2012 – 2013

Conceptualized and set the creative direction in the development of new brands, Con Garra ( partner with Fox Broadcasting ) and Rewash Denim from the vision to the retail presentation. Responsible for all aspects of the creative style development of the brand including trend direction, graphics, prints, apparel, accessories, and marketing materials. Managed, mentored, motivated, and evaluated a team of direct reports. Consistently demonstrated strong team work skills through co-operation working cross functionally to remain focused and meet tight deadlines.

Creative Director

Dethrone Royalty

2010 – 2012

Re-branded the line into a highly marketable, graphic-centric line of street style activewear that started an industry-wide trend. Worked directly with owner Nick Swinmurn (founder of Zappos) to collaborate on the overall direction of the brand. Directed and executed 150 SKUs annually from concept to completion.

Director of Design

TapouT

2009 – 2010

Manage communication among all TapouT internal design, outside design teams, merchants, marketing and vendors to drive efficient line development. Directed creative direct of all product/graphics,brand advertising, retail/POS, content development, industry events, sales support, etc. Worked effectively with the VP of Apparel to elevate the brand while streamlining costs and maximizing profit margins.

Director of Design

Silverstar

2008 – 2009

Directed all aspects of design and pre-production for apparel and accessories. Managed design department consisting of five direct reports. Drove the strategic trend direction and refreshing of the brand, which resulted in 100% increase in sales within six months.

Senior Designer

Michael Gerald Ltd.

2004 – 2008

Designed and developed product for Gotcha, Retrofit, and Xtreme Gear. Coordinated art direction and executed graphics for all brands. Researched current trends, detailing, color stories, and fabric selections. Gained extensive knowledge and experience in overseas production. Traveled globally for forecasting seasonal trends and factory capabilities.

Men's Designer

Third Rail

2001 – 2004

Designed and developed Third Rail men’s line, cut & sew, and printables. Coordinated art direction and executed graphics for all garments as well as international marketing campaign. Established key relationships with domestic suppliers and vendors.