Looking for a Strategic Designer Who Can Actually Draw?
Hey there!
Thanks for checking out my work.
You're currently on scotthofford.com, which showcases my illustrative branding strengths and Iconoflage®—my signature research-driven storytelling technique. While this represents some of my most distinctive work, my professional capabilities extend well beyond custom illustration.
Since 2010, I've worked across agencies, in-house, and as a freelancer, collaborating with brands like Nike, Chevrolet, Wrangler, Dutch Bros, Yogi Tea, Kimberly-Clark, and Sigma Alimentos. I bring a rare combination: strategic design thinking, hands-on illustration skills, and the ability to execute across the full spectrum of design deliverables.
What makes me different?
Most designers can't illustrate at this level. Most illustrators can't think strategically about brand systems. I do both—and I understand how to balance creative vision with business objectives.
What I Bring to Your Team
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Strategic Design Thinking
Research-driven problem solving, brand strategy, and conceptual development that goes beyond making things look good.
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Versatile Execution
From brand identity systems to packaging, editorial layouts to environmental graphics, digital to print production.
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Illustration & Custom Artwork
Hand-crafted illustrations, editorial work, iconography, and visual storytelling that sets brands apart.
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Collaborative Leadership
Experience managing projects, mentoring junior designers, and working cross-functionally with marketing, development, and stakeholder teams.
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Production Excellence
Detail-oriented file preparation, print production knowledge, and technical expertise across Adobe Creative Suite and design tools.
Beyond Illustrative Branding
Nike Spring/Summer 2021 Belt Trends presentation
Nike belt illustration for presentations and packaging
Sparrow Nest Coffee logo + mural
NWSA funding one-sheet with custom icons
Roseburg AWFS booth design
Douglas County Timbers logo package
Arcimoto “The Future Is Fun” lockup
Arcimoto style guide
Arcimoto rental sign
Baltimore ‘26 World Cup Host City Candidate Arcimoto fleet
Revolution Design Group Iconoflage (learn more)
Dutch Bros Coffee Iconoflage headquarters installation (learn more)
Professional Background
15+ Years in Design
From agencies to in-house teams, I've navigated different environments and understand how to adapt my approach to various team structures and workflows.
Cross-Industry Experience
Automotive, food & beverage, architecture, outdoor apparel, agriculture, consumer goods—I learn quickly and bring fresh perspective to new industries.
Client Collaboration
Comfortable presenting work, receiving feedback, iterating based on stakeholder input, and explaining design decisions to non-designers.
Project Management
Experience managing timelines, coordinating with vendors, working with cross-functional teams, and delivering on deadline.
How I Work
I'm not precious about my work—I understand that design serves business objectives, and I'm comfortable iterating based on feedback and strategic direction. At the same time, I bring informed perspective and will advocate for solutions that I believe will better serve the project goals.
I'm equally comfortable working independently or collaboratively. I've led projects solo and thrived as part of creative teams. My percussion background taught me that the best results come from supporting others' success, not competing with them.
I stay curious, ask questions, do my research, and show up consistently. Whether it's learning a new industry, mastering a software tool, or pushing my illustration skills, I'm always looking for ways to improve and bring more value to the team.
Take These With You
Let's Talk
Interested in discussing how I might fit with your team?
I'd love to hear about what you're working on and explore whether there's a good match.