Position Overview

The Senior Graphic Designer has the primary responsibility to ideate, layout, produce, and deliver print, electronic, and motion graphics for multiple communications channels for The Ohio State University Advancement Marketing and Communications (AMC) department. In alignment with internal stakeholders, oversees creative development across AMC in support of marketing strategies and objectives. Liaises with internal and external creative resources and provides guidance to and collaborates closely with the Associate Graphic Designer.

The Senior Graphic Designer is responsible for independently managing design and production of projects of all sizes and complexity to connect with primary constituent audiences – predominately alumni and donors – through a variety of channels. This position will lead projects that are highly complex, large in scope and have long term impact for Advancement partners and the university. Must have the expertise to concept, design, and produce creative work product that may include philanthropic proposals and stewardship materials, event invitations, print and banner ads, social media posts, website graphics, logos, imagery, and may also include producing various forms of multimedia, including photography, video, and interactive content.

Develops creative campaigns that reinforce the organization's overall brand and desired image in alignment with brand standards; translates requirements into design; remains mindful of inclusion, diversity, and accessibility. Actively participates in project kick-offs and meetings. Engages printers, vendors, and partners throughout the production process. Packages print-ready or publication-ready final files with fanatic attention to detail, avoiding errors and typos, including high-res images, font families, and other necessary materials; and reviews all proofs to ensure delivery of pristine, high production value final product. Tracks projects in Workfront system.

Applies developed industry knowledge and advanced understanding of concepts, principles, and technical capabilities to manage a wide variety of projects. They must have demonstrated experience generating creative, innovative solutions; collaborating closely with copywriters and other team members; meeting deadlines; problem solving; making decisions; and focusing on continuous improvement. They must be collaborative, responsive, and proactive, adapt to new ideas, work under pressure, and effectively multi-task in a fast-paced environment. They will be expected to prepare presentations and pitches and provide updates as often as needed to audiences of varying creative expertise and levels of responsibility. Stay up-to-date with emerging design trends and technologies to continually improve the quality and effectiveness of our designs.

The Senior Graphic Designer will have strong verbal written, analytical, and organizational skills, extreme attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines while managing multiple projects simultaneously. They must operate in a fast-paced environment with a demonstrated ability to be flexible and creatively problem-solve when confronted with challenging circumstances, and exhibit the behaviors associated with the Office of Advancement's core competencies: Leadership Continuous Improvement Teamwork and Collaboration and Communication/Interpersonal Effectiveness.

All members of Advancement are part of creating an inclusive culture that inspires and exceptionally diverse and talented team and are measured on their adherence to the following core competencies: Leadership, Continuous Improvement, teamwork and Collaboration, and Communication/Interpersonal Effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities

85%

Develops new ideas for each project, responsible for the design process from concept to execution. Collaborates with copywriters, printers, vendors, and other team members. Obtains print bids and estimates for other outside expenses. Actively participates in project kick-offs and meetings. Tracks projects in Workfront system. Meets deadlines.

5%

Keen awareness of industry and cultural trends to maintain relevancy in design aesthetic, tracks technological advancements (including updated computer graphics & design software), updates all necessary trainings and credentials.

5%

Develops and nurtures collaborative relationships with other creative leaders throughout Ohio State to build functional reputation in pursuit of improved results.

5% - Miscellaneous

Completes special projects and performs other duties as assigned.

Performance Objectives

First month

• Become familiar with the overall structure, resources, and processes of Advancement Marketing and Communications.

• Develop an understanding of Advancement priorities for Ohio State.

• Familiarize with the company's brand guidelines and design requirements for existing and upcoming projects.

• Build relationships with college, unit, and central advancement partners.

First 2-3 months

• Develop a deep understanding of the company's target audience and create designs that resonate with them.

• Work with cross-functional teams including copywriters, developers, and project managers to ensure timely and effective delivery of design projects.

• Collaborate with other designers to ensure consistent branding and messaging across all design projects.

First 12 months

• Establish a reputation as a skilled and reliable senior graphic designer, known for delivering high-quality designs that exceed expectations.

• Take on a leadership role within the design team, mentoring junior designers and collaborating with other departments to improve design and branding.

• Continuously improve design skills and stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and technology.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in graphic design, design and visual communications, or a related fine arts field from an accredited university, college, or private design school required.

• At least 4 years’ relevant experience in graphic design, illustration, or related field; previous experience as a graphic designer preferred.

• Experience with and the ability to demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator; experience with Adobe After Effects a plus. The ideal candidate should have a strong portfolio demonstrating their ability to create visually appealing designs across various mediums.

• Experience with and the ability to demonstrate exceptional creativity, originality, and innovative design skills.

• Experience with and the ability to demonstrate knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles;

• Experience with and the ability to demonstrate expertise in typography.

Desired Qualifications (We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage you to apply even if your experience does not align perfectly)

• Master's degree or equivalent experience.

• Six (6) years of relevant experience.

• Photography, videography, illustration, web design and other related skills a plus.

• Experience mentoring junior designers a plus.

The Office of Advancement is committed to providing tools and resources for you to learn our business, proprietary databases, university-specific processes, and advancement practices.

Commitment to Inclusion

The Office of Advancement is committed to active allyship in addressing and dismantling the inequities created by systemic racism and implicit, long-held bias. We pledge to act with kindness, respect, and integrity at all times; trust ourselves and our colleagues and empower their whole identities; and hear and see our colleagues’ ideas, voices, and perspectives, acknowledging that we are better together.

You Need to Know

Aside from the unparalleled benefits of working for The Ohio State University and working in the diverse, smart, enjoyable, and growing city of Columbus, Ohio, this opportunity will provide exceptional rewards that arise from working for an institution doing worldwide life-changing teaching and research. Learn more here: https://hr.osu.edu/careers/.

In accordance with the Disaster Preparedness and University State of Emergency Policy 6.17 this position has been designated as a standby position.

To learn more about the Office of Advancement, please visit advancement.osu.edu.

Salary range: $62,700 - $83,600

Function: Marketing and Communications

Sub-function: Graphic and Motion Design

Career Band: Individual Contributor - Specialized

Career Level: S3

Ohio State is focused on enhancing the health and safety of our community. Therefore, the university is requiring every student, faculty and staff member to be compliant with Ohio State’s COVID-19 vaccine requirement. By the start of employment, all newly hired employees must receive at least the first dose of a two-dose series or a single dose of a one-dose series COVID-19 vaccination. Individuals who choose a two-dose series vaccination must receive the second dose within 45 days of their start date. Proof of vaccination will be required at time of hire. Candidates may request a medical or religious exemption from the vaccination requirement. Campus employees may also request an exemption for personal reasons. Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, College of Medicine or OSUP Employees are not eligible for personal exemptions. All exemptions are subject to Ohio State’s approval and subject to change, including revocation, due to legal and regulatory requirements.