Kel Norman Email & Phone Number

⦾ Pioneered furniture concepts by blending client-centered insights, deep trend research, and innovative design tools, resulting in products that resonate with modern aesthetics and deliver on market needs. Integrated diverse design influences through thorough exploration of global history, antiques, and design archives, creating a unique fusion of tradition and contemporary appeal in each piece.⦾ Engaged both traditional and AI-assisted design methodologies to explore fresh possibilities, collaborating closely with sourcing and manufacturing teams to ensure concepts met quality, aesthetic, and functional standards.⦾ Actively monitored and anticipated industry trends, from material innovation to evolving consumer tastes, aligning designs with emerging market demands and forward-looking developments.⦾ Built and maintained strong relationships with suppliers and industry experts, fostering partnerships that enriched product quality and aligned with client goals through cohesive teamwork and shared vision.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

⦾ Co-founded a specialty coffee roasting business serving both local and international F&B and hospitality clients. ⦾ Implemented innovative growth strategies that expanded market share and introduced creative client acquisition and loyalty initiatives, significantly elevating the brand’s profile within the specialty coffee industry while promoting sustainable practices.⦾ Created and developed a unique CPG sub-brand and marketed in new gifting and hospitality verticals, managing concept, product, and packaging design through to launch.⦾ Led business development efforts, securing and nurturing wholesale relationships in the hospitality and gifting sectors, enhancing the brand's reach and reputation.⦾ Oversaw operations for a diverse team of 12, encompassing production, baristas, and administrative staff, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.⦾ Design & Project Management: ◦ Independently designed and managed the build-out of production, office, and retail spaces, seamlessly blending functionality with brand aesthetics to create inviting environments for clients and team members. ◦ Balanced design vision with cost-effective solutions to optimize resources while maintaining high standards of quality.⦾ Entrepreneurial Leadership in Emerging Markets: ◦ Successfully navigated the complexities of launching and managing a business in an emerging market, establishing robust operational foundations and positioning the brand as a trusted name in Vietnamese specialty coffee. This role honed my resilience, adaptability, and strategic planning abilities, essential for fostering growth in dynamic, high-potential environments.

Vietnam

⦾ Concentrated on the core elements of product development, gaining hands-on experience in transforming design concepts into production-ready furniture. ⦾ Managed local development teams to create samples that aligned with high standards for quality and client expectations. ⦾ Coordinated closely with technical engineering and quality control teams, ensuring seamless communication across departments and timely project completion. ⦾ This role deepened my understanding of the product lifecycle from ideation to delivery and gave me invaluable insight into the practical requirements of producing high-quality, commercially viable designs.

Portland, Oregon Metropolitan Area

Portland, Oregon Area

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam