Mikey Gudikunst

Founder & Creative Director

2018 – Present

• Founded and built Crank Style, a specialty brand in mountain bike apparel, from the ground up, overseeing all aspects of business, product development, and brand strategy.

• Provided design support for stakeholders, including global markets, the e-Commerce team, and the Sales team, ensuring consistent brand messaging and cohesive visual assets across all platforms.

• Directed and executed photoshoots and video productions, overseeing all stages from concept development to final editing. Played a crucial role in capturing and editing high-quality visual content to showcase products and strengthen brand identity.

• Designed and implemented the complete visual identity of the brand, including apparel design, logo creation, and marketing materials.

• Developed and managed the company’s online presence, creating a robust Shopify store optimized for SEO, which significantly enhanced online traffic and sales conversions.

• Directed comprehensive marketing campaigns, utilizing advanced digital marketing techniques to maximize brand exposure and customer acquisition.

• Leveraged analytics and market insights to continually refine marketing approaches and tactics, ensuring maximum engagement and profitability through meticulously crafted social media content and optimized paid advertising placements.

Creative Director & Brand Designer

2010 – Present

As the Creative Director at our agency, I seamlessly blend creativity and strategy to deliver exceptional results. I oversee every aspect of the creative process, leveraging my extensive experience across diverse sectors such as health and wellness, pharmaceuticals, medical, cannabis, mountain sports, cable TV, and apparel. Specializing in packaging design for consumer packaged goods (CPG), I ensure all projects comply with FDA regulations and other relevant standards. My expertise extends to crafting innovative label designs, POP displays, and packaging solutions that resonate with target audiences.

I foster close collaboration with clients, account managers, and their in-house teams to uphold the creative direction and branding across all channels. This collaborative approach ensures that every campaign is delivered on time, within budget, and achieves a significant impact in dynamic markets. My unwavering commitment to pioneering industry trends and best practices positions our agency at the forefront of innovation and creativity and inspires and excites our team and clients about future possibilities.

During my tenure at Vortex Ad Group, I championed the integration of AI-driven tools into our creative processes. This strategic initiative has enabled us to automate design elements, accelerate prototyping, and deliver bespoke client solutions efficiently. As a result, we've reduced project timelines by 50% and increased client satisfaction by 30%, demonstrating our ability to adapt and improve processes to serve our clients better.

Additionally, I work closely with printers to ensure smooth production flows and cost efficiency. My strategic insight drives the creative vision and contributes to new business development and crafting compelling proposals. My focus on regulatory compliance and creative excellence is critical for maintaining our clients' and their customers' trust and confidence.As the Creative Director at our agency, I seamlessly blend creativity and strategy to deliver exceptional results. I oversee every aspect of the creative process, leveraging my extensive experience across diverse sectors such as health and wellness, pharmaceuticals, medical, cannabis, mountain sports, cable TV, and apparel. Specializing in packaging design for consumer packaged goods (CPG), I ensure all projects comply with FDA regulations and other relevant standards. My expertise extends to crafting innovative label designs, POP displays, and packaging solutions that resonate with target audiences. I foster close collaboration with clients, account managers, and their in-house teams to uphold the creative direction and branding across all channels. This collaborative approach ensures that every campaign is delivered on time, within budget, and achieves a significant impact in dynamic markets. My unwavering commitment to pioneering industry trends and best practices positions our agency at the forefront of innovation and creativity and inspires and excites our team and clients about future possibilities. During my tenure at Vortex Ad Group, I championed the integration of AI-driven tools into our creative processes. This strategic initiative has enabled us to automate design elements, accelerate prototyping, and deliver bespoke client solutions efficiently. As a result, we've reduced project timelines by 50% and increased client satisfaction by 30%, demonstrating our ability to adapt and improve processes to serve our clients better. Additionally, I work closely with printers to ensure smooth production flows and cost efficiency. My strategic insight drives the creative vision and contributes to new business development and crafting compelling proposals. My focus on regulatory compliance and creative excellence is critical for maintaining our clients' and their customers' trust and confidence.

Skills: Print Production Management · Label Design · Industry standards · Production Processes · Creative Direction · Slack · Packaging Design · Software Updates · Vinyl · Creative Strategy · Pre-employment Testing · Business-to-Business (B2B) · Exhibit Design · 3D Rendering · Midjourney · ChatGPT · Video Editing · Apparel Graphics · Fashion Design · Pharmaceutical Packaging · Packaging · 3D Modeling · POP Displays · in-store endcaps · print materials · Shopify

Creative Director & Brand Designer

2006 – 2008

As Creative Director at Xyience, Inc. and Xenergy Energy Drink, I was at the forefront of the brand’s transformation, turning a vague presence into a distinct, high-impact identity that resonated in a competitive market. I had complete creative control over everything representing the company, ensuring consistency and excellence across all visual assets. My leadership was pivotal in establishing Xyience as a dominant force in the energy drink industry, aligning the creative vision with our strategic goals.

I spearheaded the development of promotional materials for major high-octane events such as UFC fights, MotoX championships, tradeshows, exclusive after-parties, and other high-profile sponsored events. My designs were prominently visible on TV shows like The Ultimate Fighter and Pay-Per-View events. I created the apparel that fighters and athletes wore during competitions, further showcasing the brand’s bold identity. My role also involved positioning the product within these events, including branding the center of the octagon and designing the mat for maximum visibility.

In addition to event-related designs, I directed packaging and product development, providing creative direction to a talented team of designers, web developers, and video producers to ensure every piece reflected the brand’s energy and strength. I also directed dynamic video shoots and photoshoots, working with top-tier athletes to capture the essence of Xyience. Through my leadership, Xyience achieved a cohesive and powerful brand presence that significantly elevated its standing in the energy drink sector.As Creative Director at Xyience, Inc. and Xenergy Energy Drink, I was at the forefront of the brand’s transformation, turning a vague presence into a distinct, high-impact identity that resonated in a competitive market. I had complete creative control over everything representing the company, ensuring consistency and excellence across all visual assets. My leadership was pivotal in establishing Xyience as a dominant force in the energy drink industry, aligning the creative vision with our strategic goals. I spearheaded the development of promotional materials for major high-octane events such as UFC fights, MotoX championships, tradeshows, exclusive after-parties, and other high-profile sponsored events. My designs were prominently visible on TV shows like The Ultimate Fighter and Pay-Per-View events. I created the apparel that fighters and athletes wore during competitions, further showcasing the brand’s bold identity. My role also involved positioning the product within these events, including branding the center of the octagon and designing the mat for maximum visibility. In addition to event-related designs, I directed packaging and product development, providing creative direction to a talented team of designers, web developers, and video producers to ensure every piece reflected the brand’s energy and strength. I also directed dynamic video shoots and photoshoots, working with top-tier athletes to capture the essence of Xyience. Through my leadership, Xyience achieved a cohesive and powerful brand presence that significantly elevated its standing in the energy drink sector.

Skills: Art Direction · Live Events · Photography · Graphic Design · Industry standards · Production Processes · Packaging Design · Software Updates · Vinyl · Pre-employment Testing · Exhibit Design · Web Design · Print Management

Creative Director & Brand Designer

2003 – 2006

As a freelance designer and creative director, I collaborated with clients spanning various industries, including Cable TV and communications, Hospitality, Automobile, Sports Nutrition, Lifestyle, Alcohol & Beverages, and Education Institutes. Working closely with renowned ad agencies such as Crispin and Porter, Zimmerman Advertising, G4 Advertising, and The DeLeon Group, I had the opportunity to contribute my expertise to a wide array of projects. From crafting captivating advertising campaigns for cable TV providers to developing immersive brand experiences for luxury hotels and automotive manufacturers, I've left my mark on numerous campaigns and initiatives. Whether it was designing packaging for sports nutrition products, creating lifestyle branding for beverage companies, or developing marketing materials for educational institutions, I approached each endeavor with creativity, passion, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. My versatility and adaptability allowed me to thrive in these dynamic industries, consistently exceeding client expectations and driving success across diverse sectors.As a freelance designer and creative director, I collaborated with clients spanning various industries, including Cable TV and communications, Hospitality, Automobile, Sports Nutrition, Lifestyle, Alcohol & Beverages, and Education Institutes. Working closely with renowned ad agencies such as Crispin and Porter, Zimmerman Advertising, G4 Advertising, and The DeLeon Group, I had the opportunity to contribute my expertise to a wide array of projects. From crafting captivating advertising campaigns for cable TV providers to developing immersive brand experiences for luxury hotels and automotive manufacturers, I've left my mark on numerous campaigns and initiatives. Whether it was designing packaging for sports nutrition products, creating lifestyle branding for beverage companies, or developing marketing materials for educational institutions, I approached each endeavor with creativity, passion, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. My versatility and adaptability allowed me to thrive in these dynamic industries, consistently exceeding client expectations and driving success across diverse sectors.

Skills: Apparel Graphics · Display Advertising · Large Format Graphics · Art Direction · Trade Show Graphics · Print Production Management · Graphic Design · Production Processes · Apparel · Packaging Design · Print Design · Branding & Identity · Pharmaceutical Packaging · Exhibit DesignSkills: Apparel Graphics · Display Advertising · Large Format Graphics · Art Direction · Trade Show Graphics · Print Production Management · Graphic Design · Production Processes · Apparel · Packaging Design · Print Design · Branding & Identity · Pharmaceutical Packaging · Exhibit Design

Bachelor's degree Graphic Design

1995 – 1997

During my first job out of school, I was awarded the best logo design, a distinction achieved in a competitive selection process where all students were evaluated for potential hire.

Crank Style's Forest Camo Plaid MTB Button Down

I created the full design of this button shirt for casual or mountain biking.

Crank Style's Frosted Camo Plaid MTB Button Down

I created the shirt design, color pallets, and this product listing along with the mock-up.

Crank Style's Dirty Blue MTB Button Down

Creation of this short sleeve button down, product listing, and mock-up.

Red Tie Dye Shibori V-Neck MTB Jersey

This project involved designing a V-neck sublimated mountain bike (MTB) jersey with a unique red tie-dye Shibori pattern. The design process began with creating an original tie-dye pattern inspired by traditional Shibori techniques. The vibrant red tones were carefully selected to provide a bold and dynamic aesthetic, suitable for both style and visibility on the trails. The design was then sublimated onto a high-performance, moisture-wicking fabric to ensure comfort and durability during intense rides. The final product, the Red Tie Dye Shibori V-Neck MTB Jersey, combines artistic flair with functionality, making it a standout piece in any rider's wardrobe.

Day of the Dead "Dia de Muertos" V-Neck MTB Jersey

This project marked the creation of the first design for Crank Style, the "Day of the Dead 'Dia de Muertos'" UPF50+ V-Neck MTB Jersey. The centerpiece of this special edition jersey is the Gearhead, a hand-drawn skull intricately composed of bike parts, paying homage to the vibrant and symbolic elements of Dia de Muertos. This original illustration was meticulously developed and then seamlessly integrated into a full jersey design. The result is a striking and culturally rich piece that celebrates the spirit of the Day of the Dead and offers practical performance with its UPF50+ sun protection. As one of Crank Style's best sellers, this jersey is a unique blend of artistry and function, setting the tone for the brand's success and popularity.

Winged Inferno Skull V-Neck MTB Jersey

This project focused on creating the "Winged Inferno Skull" V-Neck MTB Jersey, a bold and dynamic piece that has become a standout in the Crank Style collection. The main graphic, a fierce winged skull engulfed in flames, was developed through a blend of AI and original illustration. To enhance the overall impact, the background of the jersey features an enlarged version of this central design, creating a cohesive and striking visual effect. Complementary colors from the artwork were carefully integrated into the collar and logo, ensuring a unified and polished look. The Winged Inferno Skull jersey embodies a rebellious and energetic style, making it a popular choice among riders who seek both performance and statement-making gear.

Sleeveless MTB Jersey with Blue Stripe Check

This project involved designing the Sleeveless MTB Jersey with Blue Stripe Check, a stylish and textured piece in the Crank Style lineup. The design features a combination of navy blue and royal blue grungy stripes, overlaid with a checkered pattern to add depth and visual interest. The checkered overlay enhances the texture, creating a unique and edgy aesthetic. This sleeveless jersey is perfect for riders who appreciate functionality and distinctive style, offering a bold look that stands out on the trails.