Brand and Creative Specialist

Job Purpose/Summary:

The Brand and Creative Specialist has primary responsibility for the stewardship and visual representation of the Mitchell Hamline brand through the development of traditional and digital marketing materials including programs, brochures, posters, direct mail, on- and off-campus event materials, ads, email and social media content, photography, and web presence. This position will work closely with the department's advancement staff, as well as the school's program offices, centers and institutes, and external vendors to support the execution of marketing plans and the production of creative, high-quality materials.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Graphic design

• Responsible for design development of digital and print materials for the school's marketing initiatives to diverse internal and external audiences.
• Collaborate with project managers, writers, web producer/designer, digital marketer, and other marketing team and campus members to develop and execute creative concepts that comply with project specifications and meet client's communication objectives.
• Schedule, plan, set-up and art-direct photo and video shoots.
• Prepare production files and print specifications for vendors to industry standards.

Creative direction and brand stewardship

• Responsible for developing, directing, and maintaining the Mitchell Hamline brand. Document and maintain visual identity guidelines. Consistently and strategically interpret and apply Mitchell Hamline graphic requirements in marketing materials, including but not limited to logo, viewbooks, advertising, brochures, alumni magazine, event and other promotional literature, rich media design, merchandise, signage, digital communication screens, and web presence.
• Serve as the primary brand steward. Coach and educate marketing staff, internal customers, and external creative vendors on brand principles.
• Maintain the school's photographic, video, and art images library.
• Consult, as needed, on brand extensions, facilities' interior design, environmental design, and event experiential design.

Project management and client service

• Prioritize and manage concurrent projects that support the execution of client marketing plans.
• Manage appropriate vendor relationships.
• Complete projects on time and on budget.
• Responsible for quality, accuracy, responsiveness, and overall customer service.

Secondary job activities:

• Interviewing and filming students and alums for photos and videos.
• Proposing interior design improvements, set design or stage filming locations.
• Monitoring trends, proposing pivots, and conducting competitive analysis.
• Coordination and art direction of awards and promotional products.
• Creating and/or coordinating displays across campus including Donor and History walls, art display and others.

An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficient in desktop publishing and Internet publishing software
• Excellent skills with traditional and digital content and messaging
• Proficient with photography and photo editing with video skills a plus
• Strong oral and written communication skills with an emphasis on detail and accuracy
• The ability to solve problems and work independently and as part of a larger team
• Knowledge of Associated Press style

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related field
• 3+ years experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong visual storytelling skills, with the ability to tailor content for diverse audiences.
• Knowledge of FERPA, charitable solicitation laws, and data privacy standards.
• Knowledge of legal education or the higher education sector is a plus.

Pay Range

The anticipate salary range for this position is $65,000 - $80,000 per year, depending on qualifications.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life/AD&D insurance (MHSL pays for)
• Optional Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits (MHSL pays for)
• Generous Holidays and Winter Break
• 403(b) Retirement plan (Generous MHSL match)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Competitive compensation package

To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume and portfolio samples including both traditional and digital formats. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled or otherwise closed at the School's discretion.