"Director, Design Services"

Job Summary

Oversees the development of the Strategic Communications and Marketing Creative Services team, shaping the University's graphic design strategy, and managing the creative direction and execution of the graphics group. Provides leadership and guidance across all projects while inspiring, mentoring, and building a high-performing team of digital and traditional graphic designers. Responsible for evaluating, coaching, and recruiting creative talent, as well as supporting the growth, management, and stewardship of the University's brand.

Responsibilities

1. Oversees the creative design process from concept to completion
2. Communicates objectives into clear, creative strategies and impactful executions
3. Collaborates closely with multidisciplinary project teams to ensure cohesive outcomes
4. Leads and directs the design team in producing marketing and communications collateral, including digital and traditional advertising, brochures, university stationery, and the University magazine.
5. Ensures visual communication and brand standards are met and evolves brand standards as needed
6. Meets with partners and management to present campaign strategies and solutions; proactively anticipates repeat work and coordinates with Strategic Communications and partners
7. Reviews creative work, troubleshoots issues, and provides constructive feedback to design teams
8. Assists with recruiting, hiring, and training design staff; manages and supports the career development of graphic and digital designers
9. Manages brand visual identity and oversees freelance design contracts
10. Assess and forecast software and hardware requirements, contributing to capital planning and ensuring alignment with organizational growth and technology strategy

Required Qualifications

Educational Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education in related field

Required Experience

Eight (8) years of creative experience in graphic and digital design or previous art director experience to include previous team management and supervisory skills

Other Required Qualifications

Current, valid and unrestricted driver's license

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Educational Qualifications

An advanced degree from an accredited institution of higher education in a related field

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

ABILITIES

Able to work collaboratively across the entire communications and marketing team
Able to handle multiple tasks or projects at one time, meeting assigned deadlines
Comfort interacting with clients and internal staff alike

KNOWLEDGE

Extensive knowledge of graphic fundamentals, print, digital and web capabilities, as well as branding, marketing and advertising principles
Experience with a variety of Adobe Creative Suite software, including Photoshop, InDesign, illustrator, Dreamweaver, Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Flash
Strong creative background and intimate understanding of design, copy, and digital web best practices and guidelines
Strong understanding of brand development and multichannel marketing concepts
Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (i.e., Microsoft Office suite, Desktop Publishing software)

SKILLS

Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem-solving, independent judgment, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management, and presentation skills
Excellent leadership, team building, and coaching skills
Strong, persuasive, and presentation skills
Strong attention to detail and follow-up skills
Strong customer service skills and phone and e-mail etiquette

Other Information

This is a supervisory position.
This position does not have any financial responsibilities.
This position will be required to drive.
This role is considered a position of trust.
This position does not require a purchasing card (P-Card).
This position may travel 1% - 24% of the time

Background Check

• Standard Enhanced
• Education
• Motor Vehicle Record