Alona Zhemchugova

UI/UX Designer | Creative Leader | Design Strategist

LinkedIn

About

Highly versatile and results-driven professional with over a decade of experience in graphic design, luxury hospitality, entrepreneurship, and project management, now transitioning into UI/UX design. Passionate about merging creativity with strategic thinking to deliver impactful user-centric solutions. Proven ability to conceptualize and execute comprehensive branding initiatives, manage complex projects, and enhance customer experiences. Adept at cross-cultural collaboration, problem-solving, and leading diverse teams to achieve exceptional outcomes. Eager to apply a multidisciplinary background to create intuitive and engaging digital experiences.

Work Experience

Graphic designer

Thom Group | Full-time

Apr 2025 - Present

  • Design visual materials across formats, including print collateral, product stands, and packaging
  • Led partial rebranding of the company logo and visual identity guidelines
  • Developed creative direction and assets for the 2026 New Year's campaign
  • Designed and executed HTML newsletters to support digital marketing and promotions
  • Collaborated with internal teams to ensure brand consistency and effective communication

Freelance Graphic Designer

Freelance

Aug 2022 - Jul 2024

Provided comprehensive graphic design solutions for diverse clients, specializing in visual communication, branding, and editorial design. Managed end-to-end design projects from concept to delivery, ensuring client satisfaction and high-quality output.

  • Provided comprehensive graphic design solutions, including branding, typography, editorial design, and visual communication, for diverse client needs.
  • Partnered with over 10 businesses and cultural organizations to develop visually cohesive identities and achieve strategic communication goals.
  • Developed compelling visual concepts for promotional campaigns and editorial content, enhancing brand visibility and engagement.
  • Directed end-to-end design projects from initial concept to final delivery, ensuring client satisfaction and high-quality output.
  • Led the interior layout design for "Ulyap Songs: Beyond Circassian Traditions," ensuring on-time delivery despite prior project challenges and achieving successful publication.
  • Contributed to the successful launch and exhibition of the book at prestigious events like Offprint Paris and Tate Modern, reaching a wide audience.
  • Designed the visual narrative and editorial layout for Emigrants Magazine, a niche publication exploring migration and cultural identity.
  • Ensured cohesive and compelling design, preparing the magazine for professional print and distribution across various channels.
  • Developed an iconic custom branding wall for a flower shop, significantly enhancing brand recognition and visual identity.

Business Class Stewardess

Emirates

Dec 2015 - Jul 2022

Delivered exceptional, personalized luxury service to high-profile Business Class passengers, consistently achieving high satisfaction rates and contributing to the airline's global reputation for excellence. Managed complex in-flight operations and resolved high-pressure scenarios.

  • Provided exceptional, personalized luxury service to Business Class passengers, consistently achieving high satisfaction rates.
  • Managed premium cabin services for up to 15 passengers, including bespoke dining and amenity management, ensuring a seamless experience.
  • Maintained stringent safety protocols, including pre-flight briefings and emergency response, ensuring passenger well-being.
  • Excelled in high-pressure, fast-paced environments, consistently delivering impeccable service standards for high passenger volumes.
  • Fostered a collaborative and inclusive environment within diverse international teams (130+ nationalities), enhancing operational harmony.
  • Represented a globally top-rated airline, contributing to its reputation for service excellence and receiving multiple international awards.
  • Received the Top Service Excellence Award, recognized for outstanding passenger satisfaction and leadership feedback.
  • Mentored and onboarded over 25 new cabin crew members, significantly contributing to team professional development and cohesion.
  • Resolved over 18 complex high-pressure scenarios, including medical emergencies and passenger conflicts, ensuring optimal outcomes and safety.
  • Provided culturally sensitive service to a diverse international clientele, consistently exceeding expectations through adaptive communication.

Junior Designer

Möbius Design Studio

Sep 2020 - Feb 2021

Contributed to prestigious cultural and artistic projects, applying expertise in 3D modeling and graphic design software to create visually compelling designs for exhibitions and publications.

  • Contributed to high-profile cultural and artistic projects within a leading SWANA region design studio, enhancing studio reputation.
  • Utilized Cinema 4D, Photoshop, and Illustrator to develop visually compelling designs and 3D models for exhibitions and publications.
  • Conducted research in 3D modeling, rendering, and sustainable design, contributing to innovative and environmentally conscious projects.
  • Supported grant-funded initiatives and exhibitions focused on cultural heritage and inclusive graphic design, expanding public engagement.
  • Created 3D models and renders for the "Evaporating Suns" exhibition catalog (Kulturstiftung Basel), showcasing works by 13 prominent Arabic artists.
  • Produced high-quality visuals that effectively blended contemporary design principles with rich cultural narratives.
  • Contributed to "The Looming Council," a collaborative digital platform fostering inclusive graphic design discourse in the SWANA region.
  • Visualized complex concepts using design tools for a heritage preservation project, promoting inclusivity through design.
  • Assisted in 3D modeling and rendering (Cinema 4D) for FLEE Project, specializing in sustainable packaging research to align with eco-conscious objectives.

Co-Founder

Minimalist Cafe

Jan 2016 - Dec 2019

Co-founded and successfully launched an award-winning café, overseeing end-to-end branding, interior design, customer experience strategy, and business operations. Drove significant revenue growth and built a loyal customer base through innovative marketing and community engagement.

  • Co-founded and launched an award-winning café, overseeing end-to-end branding, interior design, and customer experience strategy to create a unique and inviting atmosphere.
  • Developed and implemented the café's interior layout and comprehensive branding elements, ensuring a cohesive and appealing customer identity.
  • Curated and developed a dynamic menu, sourcing high-quality ingredients to align with evolving customer preferences and market trends.
  • Recruited, trained, and led a high-performing team of 10 employees, optimizing performance through KPIs and fostering a cohesive work environment.
  • Directed all operational aspects, including procurement, budgeting, and financial compliance, ensuring efficiency and regulatory adherence.
  • Streamlined daily operations by effectively delegating tasks and setting clear objectives for the café manager, enhancing efficiency.
  • Spearheaded comprehensive marketing initiatives, including brand material creation and social media management, to significantly boost online presence and engagement.
  • Expanded market reach and diversified revenue by launching an online bookshop and integrating a user-friendly website.
  • Drove continuous innovation by researching and introducing new products and services, maintaining market competitiveness and customer engagement.
  • Awarded 'Best City Café in Ukraine' by Salt Ukraine, a prestigious industry recognition.
  • Grew customer base by 30% within four months through innovative marketing campaigns and strategic word-of-mouth initiatives.
  • Achieved 12% year-over-year revenue growth by optimizing financial operations and enhancing overall customer experience.
  • Orchestrated and hosted over 20 community events (workshops, art nights, pop-ups), cultivating customer loyalty and increasing foot traffic.
  • Designed and implemented a comprehensive branding package, including logo, social media assets, and a functional, visually appealing website, establishing strong brand identity.

Junior Graphic Designer

BrandPit

Feb 2015 - Dec 2015

Designed and developed packaging concepts and custom illustrations for diverse local and international brands. Collaborated closely with clients to refine designs and ensured technical readiness for print production.

  • Designed and developed innovative packaging concepts for a diverse portfolio of international and local brands, including Nestlé and MacCoffee, enhancing market appeal.
  • Developed custom illustrations for Silpo (Fozzy Group), contributing to unique souvenir designs that reinforced brand identity and customer connection.
  • Collaborated extensively with clients to refine designs, integrate feedback, and ensure strict adherence to brand guidelines and project objectives.
  • Managed end-to-end pre-press processes, ensuring meticulous layouts, color accuracy, and technical adjustments for high-quality print production.
  • Produced packaging designs that significantly elevated brand appeal and market presence across premium and mass-market product lines.
  • Consistently met tight deadlines while upholding high standards of quality, creativity, and client satisfaction.
  • Played a pivotal role in creating brand-aligned souvenirs for Silpo, strengthening customer connection and enhancing brand image.

Personal Assistant to Project Manager

Ukrainian Basketball Investment

Jan 2012 - Apr 2014

Provided comprehensive project management and administrative support for large-scale sports infrastructure and event projects. Coordinated communication among international stakeholders and streamlined documentation processes.

  • Provided comprehensive project management and administrative support for Ukrainian Basketball Investment (UBI), a major investor in sports infrastructure.
  • Streamlined senior management operations by expertly organizing travel, scheduling meetings, and managing correspondence, enhancing efficiency.
  • Coordinated and facilitated high-level business meetings with key stakeholders, managing all logistical and documentation requirements.
  • Ensured clarity and compliance by translating and adapting critical business documentation for diverse local and international audiences.
  • Supported the successful management of large-scale construction and event projects across five multifunctional arenas, collaborating with vendors, clients, and internal teams.
  • Coordinated communication among international consultants, architectural firms, and stakeholders, playing a key role in the development of multimillion-dollar sports arenas.
  • Enhanced operational clarity and efficiency by implementing streamlined translation and documentation adaptation workflows.
  • Facilitated the successful integration of strategic partners (e.g., OW Plan Group, SMG), ensuring adherence to world-class design and management standards.
  • Supported UBI's $200 million investment strategy, contributing to the construction, design, and operational planning of new arenas.

Education

Graphic Design

Kiev Academy of Media Arts

Jan 2015 - Dec 2015

Restaurant/Food Services Management

Kyiv National University of Trade and Economics (KNUTE)

Jan 2011 - Dec 2013

Food Technology and Processing

Kyiv National University of Trade and Economics (KNUTE)

Jan 2007 - Dec 2011

Certificates

Professional Scrum Master I

Scrum.org

Languages

English (Fluent) , Ukrainian (Native) , Russian (Native) , French (Conversational)

Skills

Design Software

  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Photoshop
  • Illustrator
  • InDesign
  • Cinema 4D

Graphic Design

  • Branding & Identity
  • Typography
  • Editorial Design
  • Packaging Design
  • Visual Communication
  • Concept Development
  • Illustration

UI/UX & Product Design

  • User-Centered Design
  • Wireframing
  • Prototyping
  • Information Architecture
  • Design Strategy
  • Visual Design
  • Interaction Design

Project Management

  • Scrum
  • Agile Methodologies
  • Project Coordination
  • Client Management
  • Timeline Management
  • Quality Assurance

Business & Strategy

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Market Research
  • Brand Strategy
  • Revenue Growth
  • Customer Experience Management
  • Business Development

Soft Skills

  • Cross-cultural Communication
  • Adaptability
  • Problem-Solving
  • Team Leadership
  • Customer Relationship Management
  • Collaboration
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Innovation