Lee A Franklin

7500 Caddo Ct.

Fort Worth, TX 76132
(913) 486-7852
lf10cc93a@westpost.net
Seeking a marketing, strategy, or innovation position that builds upon my profes
sional and educational experience.
Attributes:
Self starter
Commitment to Excellence
Fast learner
Effective and persuasive communicator
Highly adaptive
Relational
Competencies:
New Product Development & Marketing
Strategic Planning
Innovation
Project/Program Management
Directing a Team
Change Management

Business Background
Hallmark Cards, Inc.
April 2010 to present Innovation Leader II
Use a portfolio of innovation tools to discern consumer need, develop consumer i
nsights, innovate, and market new product solutions. Distill various insights an
d trends into distinct consumer point of view that will drive opportunity develo
pment. Discern the emotional core of a need or concept and lead its translation
into a relevant business opportunity. Advocate for consumer and brand: Ensures a
lignment of solutions to consumer need and opportunity promise. Present new pro
duct solutions to Hallmark senior leadership.
January 2009 to April 2010 Creative Director
Led cross-functional teams in development of innovative product solutions, inclu
ding $20 million, 16-foot games and activities line sold to Walmart. Presented
innovative product solutions to customers, including Walmart and Target.
April 2005-January 2009 Strategist, New Product Development, Retail
Identified consumer needs and market trends and translated them into new product
opportunities. Collaborated with other members of my product development team
to create pitch boards. Led cross-functional teams in bringing product vision to
fruition. Presented product initiatives to senior leadership.
June 2003 - April 2005 Senior Writer
Conceptualized and provided copywriting for new product lines. Wrote for a varie
ty of card and gift needs, i.e., humor, non-humor, alternative, verse, and prose
.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

January 2001 - May 2003 Ministry Intern
Worked in all aspects of ministry, including marketing, counseling, visiting the
sick and elderly, preaching, and leading classes in conjunction with Master of
Divinity degree.
Free-Lance Writing Business
March 1990 - January 2000 Responsible for marketing and financial aspects of ru
nning my own business.
Hallmark Cards, Inc.
January 1984 - March 1990 Senior Writer, Shoebox Greetings
Selected as one of founding members of Shoebox, Hallmark's first alternative car
d line. Initially generated over $40 million in annual sales. Was most productiv
e writer with the most high-ranking cards; some best-selling cards are still sel
ling. Shoebox exceeded all sales and longevity expectations, and this year cele
brated its 25-year anniversary.
August 1981 - January 1984 Editor-Senior Editor
Along with design partner, was responsible for creative development of product
lines for retail sale. Supervised artists and writers in implementation of crea
tive vision.
Education MBA, Strategic Management, University of Kansas, Graduated with Highes
t Distinction, 2010. GPA: 3.9/4.0
Master of Divinity, Saint Paul School of Theology, Graduated with Honors, 2004.
GPA: 3.99/4.0
BA, Communications, Eastern Illinois University, Graduated with Honors, 1981. G
PA: 3.8/4.0
Volunteer Activities Claridge Court Retirement Village, regular volunteer visito
r
Volunteer for sons' sporting activities
Boy Scout leader
Aids Care Team Coordinator
Classroom volunteer