As a Senior Graphic Designer at The Paige Group, Ivan Popov’s work sits at the intersection of visual storytelling, strategic thinking, and execution. “I take ideas from concept to build, handling the logistics and technical details that bring each idea to life,” he explains. About half of his time is dedicated to hands-on design, developing marketing collateral, presentations, and conceptual visuals, along with managing updates and quick-turn projects. He also contributes to web and UI design, primarily front-end development with occasional back-end setup for specialized needs. That strategic approach was recently reflected in his work with SUNY Poly (his alma mater), where he served as the primary artist for the university’s new campus map interface.
Ivan regularly leads projects from concept through completion, working closely with Account Executives, Art Directors, and clients to ensure alignment at every stage. His work extends beyond traditional design into 3D trade show and event booth design, signage coordination, video editing, copywriting, and long-term event strategy. “Collaboration and adaptability are central to my day-to-day work,” he says. Whether refining a presentation or planning a large-scale installation, he approaches each assignment with both creative and strategic focus.
Ivan credits SUNY Poly with shaping the way he thinks about design. “One of the most valuable skills I developed was learning to separate the message from the artwork,” he says. Rather than focusing solely on visual appeal, he learned to evaluate whether a design truly achieves its objective. “I began to see projects as a series of problems to solve rather than a single visual direction.” That mindset continues to guide his professional approach.
He also developed what he calls a strong creative rhythm, influenced in part by concepts from game design. “Start with a minimum viable product. Make sure it works before you layer on complexity.” This strategy has proven especially valuable in fast-paced professional environments. Instead of overcomplicating solutions under pressure, he focuses on building something functional first, then refining it. SUNY Poly also provided critical professional skills. “I learned how to handle feedback, iterate professionally, collaborate across disciplines, and communicate effectively with clients and teams.” For Ivan, design must be “usable, purposeful, and memorable,” serving goals such as informing, persuading, or inspiring.
Several courses left a lasting impression. Writing-intensive classes strengthened his analytical thinking and professional communication skills, which he now uses regularly when presenting ideas or developing copy. Design-focused courses in typography, portfolio development, and advanced digital design encouraged experimentation and risk-taking beyond safe solutions.
One particularly influential experience came from an Advertising Management course, where students created and marketed a fictional product from the ground up. Ivan expanded that concept into other classes, developing brand identity, packaging, and digital assets around the same idea. That sequence of projects helped him connect strategy, storytelling, and visual design in a cohesive way. It remains a favorite example of his work and one he revisits “when I want to feel a little like a wizard.”
Ivan began his academic journey at MVCC before transferring to SUNY Poly. He describes the transfer process as smooth and well supported, from attending orientation to receiving his acceptance materials. While navigating the accelerated BS/MS program in Information Design Technology (IDT) required thoughtful planning, particularly as the program was still relatively new, the experience ultimately strengthened his academic and professional foundation.
For students pursuing Communication Media Design (CMD) or IDT, Ivan offers practical advice. “Make every project your best work and push yourself beyond what feels comfortable,” he says. Treat assignments as portfolio pieces, save and organize your work, and refine it over time. Collaboration is important, but so is stepping into leadership roles when opportunities arise. “Ownership builds confidence, and confidence shows in your work.”
For those entering the professional field, his message is clear. “Employers care about competency. They want to know they can hand you a brief and a deadline and trust that you will deliver.” Manage your time effectively, understand when a project meets its objective, and contribute meaningfully within a team. Above all, Ivan advises, “Soul search before you job search, but never stop job searching.” Knowing the kind of professional you want to be will help guide your path while staying open to opportunity ensures continued growth.
