Caroline Thompson-Heap

Creative graphic design lead with over 30 years experience in the print and design industry, working with a wide variety of clients across the UK and Europe.

Quite simply, I love what I do. Every one of my projects is treated with an individual approach – using thought, insight and focus on your audience to create designs that make an impact. I will take on any project and deliver a professional result that will stand up against the competition. Thorough research and communication are absolutely vital in achieving this.

Skilled in graphics, branding design, packaging, typography, web design and Adobe Creative Suite. Strong arts and design professional with a BA(hons) focused in Typography from University of Plymouth. Competent manager with excellent time management skills and an expert at balancing priorities across multiple projects. 
 

NPD Manager UK, Paardekooper BV, Holland, April 2024 - August 2025

Working in the horticulture division of this dutch packaging company. I supported the UK sales team with bespoke designs for flower and plant packaging for UK supermarkets. Working with inhouse design teams, we designed and printed for M&S, Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsburys, ASDA, Aldi and Co-op. Working with their design teams and growers to package flowers all year round for all occasions. Working ahead of the calendar year I keep track of trends in order to keep our designs current.

Senior Graphic Designer, Just Digital Limited, 2022 - 2024

Leading the marketing and creative team, we supported the commercial print side of the company as well as working as an agency for clients including NHS Professionals, Anglian Water, Royal Society of Chemistry, Dignity Funerals, Homefire, Mercedes Benz and FFT.

Ensuring consistency across our design for all clients. I have a good working knowledge of digital and traditional print processes. I am used to working directly with printers and understand technical specifications. I work to tight deadlines and often have to interpret many different requirements and briefs. I work closely with my clients and their teams on everything from websites to exhibition stands, brand assets to billboards. My team often work remotely and we collaborate via teams and Trello.

Freelance Designer, Cheeky Monkey Designs, 2003 - 2022

Equally happy working alone or with agencies, running my own business gave me excellent organisational skills, including time management, problem solving, managing client expectations and budget. I will turn my hand to any challenge. I even brushed up on my photography skills for a client brochure and website launch. 

My clients included: Pro-Lifting Ltd, Circlewaste, Kherion Medical, Families Magazine (Cambridge and Oxford), Jigsaw Communications Ltd, The Print Shop, The School Planner Company, Addenbrookes Hospital, Mimeo, Peterborough City Council, The Home Office, Histon Produce, Aircover and BonesApart Quartet to name a few.

Following the pandemic, like many people, I reevaluated my working life and consequently looked for a change, as much as I loved freelance work it’s nice to work with a team again and help develop and motivate our junior designers. 

Studio Manager, Nigel Quiney Publications, 2002 - 2003

I was responsible for the smooth running of the design studio as well as working as a designer. I worked directly with the Marketing Director, the Product Manager and managed a team of designers. With trends constantly changing we produced about 200 new designs a year with an extra 150 designs for the spring season and at least 200 new Christmas designs working between 12 and 18 months in advance. We also produced bespoke cards for international buyers.

Graphic Designer, TAG McLaren Audio, 1999 - 2001

TAG McLaren Audio made high end audiophile and lifestyle products. I was part of an in house marketing and graphics team who worked directly with the CEO. We were responsible for all marketing and event literature as well as packaging and product manuals in several languages. During this time I was lucky enough to be part of the team designing the stand and promotional material for a space in Harrods.
 

Graphic Designer, Kall Kwik Printing, 1998 -  1999

Publishing Assistant, Beckett Karlson, 1997 - 1998

University of Plymouth, Exeter School of Art and Design - BA(hons) Design: Typography 2:1

Milton Keynes College - One year foundation course in Art and Design

Pipers Corner School, Bucks - GCSE’s, A Levels