Graphic Design Manager

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Manage graphic design requests and assign projects to staff; manage project timelines and budgets, ensuring timely delivery within scope while upholding high standards for visual presentation.
• Develop and implement creative concepts and visual designs for various communications collateral (print and digital) consistent with the City's values and brand, including signs, guides, directories, documents, business cards, stationery, logos, forms, reports, programs, manuals, brochures, newsletters, advertisements, infographics, animated graphics, and other materials.
• Consult with staff on communications and marketing projects; work collaboratively to define project requirements; provide guidance on design strategies, brand guidelines, and best processes to realize the final product.
• Maintain and evolve the City's visual identity and branding guidelines; ensure brand compliance across City departments.
• Assist with developing and implementing design strategies aligned with organizational branding and communication goals.
• Plan and format projects for final print and digital output; prepare, edit, and proofread text.
• Supervise and evaluate graphic design staff and other team members as assigned.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure visual communications are ADA-compliant, resonate with diverse audiences, and foster positive public perception.
• Participate in budget development and monitor the budget of assigned areas.
• Manage accounts for stock images and graphic inventory purchases.
• Perform research and solicit bids from print vendors; coordinate with vendors and review proofs.
• Provide training on graphic design software as needed.
• Provide outstanding service, pursue continuous improvement, and exceed expectations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in graphic design, media/graphic arts, visual communication, or related field.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in graphics or design, including at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Demonstrated advanced proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop, and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent interpersonal, outreach, marketing, communication (verbal and written), and customer service skills.
• Ability to design, develop, and prepare accurate and visually appealing materials from notes, sketches, research, and verbal or written direction.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage projects, staff, resources, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent command of English, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation; attentive to detail with proofreading and editing skills.
• Solid understanding of marketing, production, website design, product packaging, advertisement, and multimedia design.
• Submission of a portfolio of recent work or a website link demonstrating design capabilities.

Nice to Have

• Experience with additional design tools or multimedia production.
• Knowledge of ADA compliance standards for visual communications.
• Experience working in a government or public sector environment.

Qualifications

• Educational background as specified in requirements.
• Relevant professional experience as specified in requirements.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud Suite and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Portfolio demonstrating recent work.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive insurance benefits (medical, dental, vision, long-term care, life).
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, personal leave, and holidays.
• Retirement contributions including 401A, 401K, and 457 plans.
• Flexible spending accounts and tools to assist with student loan debt.
• Long-term care insurance, life and disability insurance, and other supplemental benefits.
• Employee assistance programs, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Work/life balance support, including some remote work options.