Dr Con Kennedy

I'm Dr Con Kennedy, a communication designer and an academic design researcher born and raised in the vibrant Liberties of Dublin City, Ireland. My design journey began in 1995 when I qualified with my degree in Visual Communication Design from the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT). This led me to a successful career in graphic design and several impactful roles in some of Ireland's leading creative agencies before I ventured into entrepreneurship, founding my design studio in 2008.

Today, I'm privileged to share my wealth of experience in the design industry as a lecturer in Visual Communication Design and Design Entrepreneurship at TU Dublin's School of Art and Design.

My design work has been recognised internationally and featured in prestigious publications such as Creative Review (UK), Graphic Design (USA), Page Magazine (Germany), Logo Lounge Design Trends, Logo Lounge Master Library Volume 3, and Logolicious. I have also contributed to the book Work for Money, Design For Love.

Beyond the creative sphere, my academic journey has led me to present my research at renowned international design conferences, and I have been published in peer-reviewed journals. A pivotal role as a researcher allowed me to contribute to formulating the Irish Government's Policy Framework for Design In Enterprise in Ireland. I was also honoured to be a consultant for the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs' Winning by Design report.

My academic achievements include a Doctorate from TU Dublin's School of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, earned through pioneering research into entrepreneurship processes within design enterprises and developing a business model applicable to their unique needs. Before completing my PhD, I earned an MA in Professional Design Practice, where my research focused on design skills development and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) needs of the design sector. You can download a selection of my research papers and studies from here.

My previous engagement with the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI) as a council member and fellow has enriched my design advocacy perspective. As the longest-running council member in the institute's history, I served as Awards Chairperson and Honorary Treasurer during my tenure. Although I'm no longer active on the IDI Council, I continue to support and advocate for their initiatives.

I'm a proud co-founder and design editor of Iterations, a respected journal for design research and practice reviews. Additionally, I am an active member of the TU Dublin Academic Council and serve on various TU Dublin University committees.

Uniting creative excellence with a passion for nurturing emerging design talents, I strive to leave a mark on the design industry and academic circles. My commitment to fostering the next generation of design professionals is unwavering, and I am dedicated to shaping a bright future for the design industry.