Description:
As the Graphic & Creative Design Manager at MidAmerica Nazarene University, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the institution’s visual identity and creative communication across various platforms to reach targeted audiences. You will help tell MNU's story by collaborating with a talented team in University Communications and diverse stakeholders across campus to create captivating designs that promote the institution’s brand, events, programs, and initiatives. This role requires a strong blend of creativity, customer service, and project management skills to ensure the delivery of compelling visual content that resonates with our intended audiences. This position is based at the MNU campus in Olathe, KS; however, remote work opportunities exist during times of heavy work volume.
Key Responsibilities:
Graphic Design (60%):
- Design and produce a wide range of marketing materials, including print and digital media, advertisements, brochures, newsletters, banners, and more.
- Create visually engaging and appealing content for the university's website and social media platforms.
- Develop and implement design strategies to promote the university's brand and message effectively.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director to establish a creative direction.
- Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, from concept to final execution, ensuring deadlines are met.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external agencies as needed to deliver exceptional design work.
- Stay updated on design trends, industry advancements, and competitor branding strategies to bring innovative design ideas and keep the institution’s brand and visual presence at the forefront.
Creative Leadership (40%):
- Manage decisions and outsourcing work to graphic designers, creative artists, and content creators.
- Foster a collaborative and innovative design culture within the department.
- Collaborate with University Communications staff to develop creative solutions that align with the institution’s goals and effectively communicate key messages and brand stories to targeted audiences for each stakeholder.
- Develop and maintain a library of branded content for campus colleagues to utilize on short order.
- Empower colleagues to embrace the institution’s visual identity and brand guidelines by facilitating workshops across campus to maximize use of the branded-content library, tell on-brand stories, and provide consistent content that represents the MNU’s values and mission.
- Reliably track expenses and recommend cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, creative arts, visual communications, or a related field.
- Proven experience (5+ years) in graphic design, with a strong portfolio showcasing creative expertise and design versatility.
- Excellent understanding of design principles, typography, and color theory.
- Demonstrated experience in fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Advanced proficiency in industry-standard design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.), and other collaborative software.
- Knowledge of Web design principles, user experience, video editing, cloud-based platforms and applications, and basic HTML/CSS preferred.
- Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Exceptional communication skills to effectively convey design concepts and collaborate with various stakeholders with an elevated level of customer service.
- A keen eye for detail and a passion for innovation and creativity in design.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and thrive in a demanding environment.
- Advanced knowledge of digital and print production processes and pre-press requirements.
- Experience in the education sector or a similar environment is a plus.