Damian Cardona

Orlando, Florida
damiancardona.com
dc@damiancardona.com
(816) 267-3310

Summary

Results-oriented professional with over a decade of experience in the media industry. Recognized Head of Media Production, Line Producer and Production Manager known for overseeing complex production processes and delivering award-winning campaigns for statewide races and a national presidential campaign. Skilled in camera operation, audio mixing, cinematography, editing, and production management. Committed to client satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Expertise spans the entire production life cycle, from budget creation and management to crew hiring and coordination. Facilitated effective communication between clients, crew members, and the company, consistently delivering high-quality projects within budget and timeline.

Contributed to notable accomplishments, including three gubernatorial elections and a national presidential campaign. Nominated for and contributed to winning prestigious awards such as the national Pollie, Silver Anvil, Emmy, Telly, Addy, and Reed Awards. Demonstrated exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail in high-pressure environments.

Equipped with a Master’s degree in Media Design and Entertainment Business, offering comprehensive knowledge of media theory, design principles, and entertainment industry dynamics. Founded a successful production company, serving clients such as Google, and merged it with CATECOMM, solidifying a reputation as a trusted media professional.

Passionate about media and committed to excellence, ready to leverage skills, expertise, and a proven track record to contribute to a dynamic organization. Proficient in managing complex projects, delivering exceptional results, and fostering strong client relationships.

Authorized to work in the US for any employer.
Willing to relocate.

Work Experience

Video Productions Coordinator at AFSCME

Washington, DC from October 2023 to Current
  • Spearheaded strategic video storytelling initiatives, producing compelling content that resonated with diverse audiences. From developing video ideas to executing production plans, consistently achieved high-quality deliverables that effectively conveyed the union’s message.
  • Showcased technical expertise by filming and photographing members and union officers both in-studio and remote locations. Implemented innovative approaches in using the video medium, staying abreast of industry trends, and utilizing advanced multi-format video and audio editing skills with Adobe Creative Cloud software.

Head of Production at CATECOMM

Tallahassee, FL from May 2015 to May 2023
  • Successfully fulfilled various creative roles, including camera operator, audio mixer, cinematographer, editor, line producer, and production manager, in building the media division of a small public relations business.
  • Led the creative direction and production efforts of media projects, overseeing concept development, design, and execution.
  • Garnered numerous award nominations and secured wins for prestigious accolades such as the national Pollie, Silver Anvil, Emmy, Telly, Addy, and Reed Awards.
  • Managed end-to-end production processes, including budget creation and management, crew hiring, and ensuring seamless coordination between clients, crew members, and the company. Also contributed to the professional development of junior production staff.
  • Develop and implement strategic plans for the production department, aligning with the company’s overall goals and objectives. This includes identifying opportunities for process improvement, implementing new technologies, and optimizing resource allocation to maximize efficiency and productivity.
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of materials and services for production projects.

Founder/Owner at Unknown Media

Orlando, FL from April 2010 to May 2015
  • Founded and owned a successful production company focused on political campaigns, commercials, web content, music videos, animations, and instructional/industrial projects.
  • Developed a strong client base, with notable clients such as Google, resulting in multiple animation projects.
  • Achieved substantial growth and recognition, leading to acquisition of the company by CATECOMM in 2015.
  • Develop and implement strategic plans to drive growth and expansion of the media division, including identifying new markets and opportunities for revenue generation.

Education

Master's Degree (MFA) in Media Design

Full Sail University - Winter Park, FL
May 2012 to April 2014

Master's Degree (MBA) in Entertainment Business

Full Sail University - Winter Park, FL
November 2010 to November 2011

Bachelor’s Degree (BS) in Film

Full Sail University - Winter Park, FL
August 2008 to May 2010

Skills

Production & Media

Line Producing, Production Management, Budget Management, Cinematography, Camera Operation, Audio Mixing, Editing, Media Design, Creative Input, Live / Event Production

Project & Team Management

Team Management, Team Leadership, Project Planning & Execution, Coordination & Collaboration, Campaign Development, Client Management, Entertainment Business

General Professional

Communication Skills, Problem-Solving, Attention to Detail, Time Management

Software

Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, Apple Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve