Who is Shem Hunter?
I am a designer + creative director who also rides mountain bikes and keeps Jagger (dog/account manager) company most days.
I spent the better part of two decades at globally regarded design and advertising agencies, working on brands of every size, across every sector.
Now I help SMEs, startups, agencies and non-traditional businesses with freelance design, advertising and brand strategy—without the complexity or cost.
I’m available on a freelance, project or contract basis—hit the GET IN TOUCH button top right to, well, get in touch.
Shem Hunter
Design Director
A Brief History
2019 to Present
Freelance Design & Creative Direction
Design leadership & creative strategy for brands and agencies alike.
Selected Clients:
NOW Broadband, Haelen Technology, Bad Dinosaur, Zokoko, Work Communications, 4 Ingredients, Tackle World Australia, OYA Consulting, Sunshine Coast Council, Moreton Bay Regional Council, BodyVibe, MA Financial, Essence – The Healthcare Agency, MacNeil & Co., United Flexible, Advance Fluid Control & more.
2014 to 2019
Design Director / Redcactus Design
Design leadership across global clients at a brand, retail and packaging design agency.
Based in Auckland, New Zealand.
Selected Clients:
Frucor Suntory (V Energy, McCoy), KFC (USA, Australia, ASEAN), Goodman Fielder (Meadow Fresh, Freya's), Wrigley (Global, Africa), Griffin’s, Accolade Wines (Madam Sass), The Better Drinks Company & more.
2012 to 2014
Senior Creative & Art Director / The Pond
I emigrated to Auckland, New Zealand in 2012 and freelanced as a senior creative for a swathe of design and advertising agencies on arrival.
Selected Agencies:
Saatchi & Saatchi, Ogilvy, Raydar, Redcactus Design, Republik, Rolfe.
Selected Clients:
KFC (NZ & USA), Countdown, ASB, Auckland Zoo, Auckland Stadiums, Bunnings, Mercury Energy, AA Life, AA Insurance, Smartfuel, Lasoo (won pitch), Onecard Visa, Nestlé Purina, Frucor, Bayer, Super Liquor & more.
2010 to 2014
Creative Partner / Wink in the Dark
Co-founded a boutique advertising agency that provided SME’s with big agency thinking, without breaking the bank.
Selected Clients:
The SPAR Group, TBWA\Durban, TEQUILA\Durban, JAM Clothing, Marshall Security, DesignShop, MANCOSA, Wakaberry FroYo Bar, Stoneage Home Centre, Gold City, Umgeni Bird Park, Gourmet Pet & more.
2006 to 2010
Senior Art Director / TEQUILA
Art direction, design direction, brand development, shopper marketing and retail journey.
Selected Clients:
FIFA (2010 Football World Cup), The SPAR Group, Build-it, Durban Fashion Week, Mugg & Bean, NPC, aQuellé, Southern Charter, Drakensberg Boys Choir School, University of the Free State & more.
2004 to 2006
Art Director / TBWA Hunt Lascaris
Brand & retail campaign development.
Selected Clients:
The SPAR Group, Build it, Tops, Re-, Beiersdorf, Aerolite, Illovo, Woodlands Dairy & more.
2002 to 2004
Freelance Designer & Videographer
Logo design and video projects.
A few words from people I’ve worked with:
Shem is that rare creative thinker. One whose concepts don't defy sound marketing principles and common sense! He's broad-minded, flexible and conceptually very strong.
— Allen Petrie / Client Service Director, TBWA\
Shem has been a trusted creative and strategic voice across my businesses and clients for over 15 years.
— Pam Becker / Founder, OYA Consulting & BodyVibe
Shem has the ability to drive things forward and get the job done!
— Eira Sands / New Business Director, TBWA\
Shem’s time at Redcactus has seen the addition of a retail & art direction capability that has been of great benefit to our offering — and our clients.
— Chris Chong / CEO, Redcactus Design
You can always rely on Shem for an honest diagnosis and smart solution.
— Justin Harris / Advertising Manager, The SPAR Group