hello :)

  • I’m Crystal Thomas, a creative director with 17 years of experience building brands, systems, and experiences that scale. My work spans brand identity, live events, product launches and visual storytelling, always rooted in strategy and clarity.

    I currently lead POLITICO’s global design team, supporting teams across North America and Europe. We partner closely with Live Events, Media Solutions, Product, Marketing, and the Newsroom to bring ideas from concept through execution—whether that’s a high-profile event, a new product launch, or a global brand rollout.

    I’m known for building strong creative systems, mentoring designers and helping teams work more efficiently without losing craft. I care deeply about collaboration, thoughtful design and making sure the work does what it’s meant to do.

    ***I’m currently refreshing this space with updated work—more coming soon.

  • BFA, Graphic Design – California State University, Long Beach | 2007-2012

    MA, Artificial Intelligence Marketing & Design - Academy of Art University | In Progress

  • Global Creative Director / Art Director 2018-present —- POLITICO

    Lead/Senior Graphic Designer 2013-2018 —- Mile 9 Agency, Discovery Inc., POLITICO

    Graphic Designer 2013-2009 —- International Sports Sciences Association, True Colors Inc., Ontraport

    detailed resume on request

  • POLITICO Global Rebrand Branding & Visual Identity | White House Correspondents Reception | CNN x POLITICO Grill @ the Conventions | British Embassy Political Debate parties | POLITICO Pub, U.S. & London | Adweek | Shape Magazine | FLEX Magazine | M&F Hers Magazine | Sundance Film Festival | K-Swiss | NutriBullet | TLC, Say Yes to the Prom | Shark Week | Civil Society Rebrand | Indigo Star Rebrand | Discovery Channel | Investigation Discovery Channel | Science Channel | Leroy Dixon (Olympic Athlete) | Kelli Michele (Author)

  • Digiday Media Awards Europe 2026 Best Event – POLITICO Pub

    POLITICO of the Year – honored to be 1 of 5 nominees, 2023.

    Nominees are POLITICOs who were identified by their POLITICO colleagues for making invaluable contributions to the publication while embodying our POLITICO values.