I am a product designer, strategic brand builder and creative team leader with over 20 years experience.
I have driven success for the biggest names in home design, including Lifetime Brands, Mikasa, Tahari, Vera Wang and Calvin Klein. And retailers such as Kohl's, Bed Bath & Beyond, Macy's, Bloomingdale's and Williams Sonoma. My process includes working directly with designers (i.e. Vera Wang, Kenneth Cole, Elie Tahari and Catherine Malandrino) to capture their vision and unique point of view.
As Global Design Director for Mikasa, I was instrumental in the brand's turnaround; our team expanded the brand's presence in the market place which resulted in increased sales and positive profit.
My deep factory experience and knowledge of manufacturing includes sourcing and executing across all of Asia. Regular attendance at the European and domestic trade shows sharpens my design and branding perspective. I'm also a keen observer of consumer habits and trends that help drive my client's business forward.
Currently, as principal of Hugh Biber Design, I design for -- and consult with -- major companies and retailers to develop product, line assortment and strategies that result in expanded customer base and increased sales.
EXPERIENCE
• 2017-present I Principal/Hugh Biber Design
Designer and consultant for Lifetime Brands, Home Essentials, Libbey, Godinger, Fish's Eddy, Cirque du Soleil, PT Sango, and others. New product, new brand opportunities, brand building, packaging and POS, color consulting. Global travel, factory interface, attendance at international trade fairs, ie, Ambient and Maison & Objet. Work directly with Sales Leads and C-level executives.
•2009-2016 I SVP/Global Design Director, Mikasa/Lifetime
Team management and lead oversight of all creative for fine tabletop and housewares collections, including Mikasa, Pfaltzgraff, Nautica, Elie Tahari, and Catherine Malandrino. Also provided design expertise and direction across other divisions. Created working budgets and product that led to profitable sales in 2015. Direct reports include Divisional President and CEO.
•2007-2009 I Design Director, Kohl’s Inc.
Oversaw all aspects of strategy, design and development for Food Network brand including tabletop, textiles and food prep.
•1990-2007 I Hugh Biber Design, Inc.
Founder and Principal of full-service design studio, including all aspects of building major home brands in the category. We drove creative direction, design, presentation and oversaw budgets and calendars for retailers and wholesalers. Clients included Kenneth Cole, Vera Wang, Calvin Klein, Avon, Block China, Boston Warehouse, Wedgwood, Lifetime Brands, Macy’s, JC Penney and many more.
•1985-1990 I VP/Product Development Knobler International
Oversaw all aspects of design, manufacturing, overseas importing.