ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR, SALES FACTORY
ASHEVILLE NC
Kristina Fick is a design enthusiast with a knack for turning big ideas into bold visuals. Armed with a Bachelor’s in Interactive Media and an Associate’s in Digital Animation, she graduated as Valedictorian with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Kristina’s work has earned 40 prestigious design awards, including honors from GDUSA and the American Advertising Federation.
Specializing in heart-led branding and identity design, Kristina’s portfolio includes collaborations with brands such as Primo Water, GE, Duke, NCSU, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and Lenovo. Kristina’s journey at Sales Factory has been marked by rapid growth, advancing to Associate Creative Director in a short time. She leads two core teams in a wide array of projects, including brand guidelines and large-scale campaigns, while maintaining a focus on collaboration and creativity to drive excellence.
Kristina is driven by a belief in the transformative power of thoughtful design to shape brands, influence culture, and inspire change. With a strong passion for sustainability, she is especially motivated by campaigns that create meaningful impact, spark awareness, and promote positive environmental and social change. Her focus remains on inspiring innovation and fostering creativity, proving that exceptional design can make a difference.
DO YOU THINK GRAPHIC DESIGNERS HAVE A SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY TO USE THEIR TALENTS TO MAKE A SOCIAL IMPACT?
Design is a powerful communication tool, capable of shaping perceptions, educating, and inspiring action. Through awareness campaigns, collaboration with ethical brands, or amplifying marginalized voices, we can make meaningful contributions. Design is empathetic at its core, making it well-suited for advocating change. Our rapidly changing world calls for unity, and design plays a critical role in bringing people together. By creating visuals that resonate universally, designers can foster understanding, spark dialogue, and build bridges across differences. Thoughtful design can highlight shared values, encourage collaboration, and inspire communities to work collectively toward meaningful progress.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE JUST STARTING A CAREER IN GRAPHIC DESIGN?
Stay curious and keep learning. Graphic design is ever-evolving, and embracing change is key. Master the fundamentals like typography, color, and composition for a strong foundation. Become proficient in design programs early — this frees you to focus on strategy and creativity instead of technical hurdles. Experiment, take risks, and don’t fear failure —s ome of the best designs come from bold ideas. Listen to your inner voice and audiences, as great design solves real problems. Most importantly, lean into what makes you unique. Whether it’s your style, passion for a niche, or a cause you care about, your individuality will set you apart. The design world needs fresh perspectives, so bring your own voice to the table.
