The Designer manages and executes the Conservancy’s brand identity system by leading or contributing to creative projects.
The Designer manages and executes the Conservancy’s brand identity system by leading or contributing to creative projects. S/he will work with a small, collaborative team leading the effort to build and evolve The Nature Conservancy’s brand identity and visual vocabulary. This is a hands-on position for a creative, conceptual thinker ready to define and execute an artistic vision from start to finish. The Designer reports to the Senior Art Director and will work closely with the photo, production and editorial staffs. S/he will also contribute to other creative projects, This is a full-time position located at The Nature Conservancy’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia.
The Designer is a key member of the Creative team and works primarily to:
- Design smart, thoughtful, and compelling concepts for all aspects of the organization.
- Design, direct, research, and manage graphics, layouts and art production.
- Develop and maintain the Conservancy’s brand visual vocabulary.
- Meet monthly photography, production, and copy deadlines.
- Direct, research and manage photo shoots as needed.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Organizes, manages and coordinates diverse projects and activities with many variables.
- Does not supervise any staff but will coordinate the work of peers on departmental project teams. May supervise volunteers, interns or temporary staff.
- Works within a budget to complete a project.
- Duties are performed under general supervision and established guidelines.
- Opportunity to act independently on assigned tasks and projects. May have full opportunity to direct individual projects.
- Refers questions to supervisor.
- Experience managing client/customer relationships.
- Experience proofreading documents.
- Experience organizing and coordinating projects.
- Experience preparing files for production, marking up color for correction, and reviewing proofs.
- Has a portfolio demonstrating a sophisticated, conceptual design sensibility and a strong sense of typography.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills appreciated
- Multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience preferred
- 5 years experience in a design studio, agency or in-house creative department
- Strong, modern approach to typography and design (for both print and mobile)
- Strong awareness of current design trends, photographers and illustrators
- Emphasis on a high level of design sophistication and meticulous attention to detail
- Keen eye for photography and illustration and exceptional typography skills
- Experience in designing for the Web and a basic understanding of HTML, CSS and JavaScript
- Ability to translate print graphics to web, and vice versa
- Expert-level knowledge of Adobe CC
- Strong familiarity with print production
- Must be detail-oriented, independent and well organized with a blend of technical and conceptual skills
- Should thrive in an energetic environment and have the ability to make judgment calls and to respond tactfully in all situations.
- Understanding of motion graphics or video editing a major plus
- Experience with presentation software such as Powerpoint and Keynote
- Solid knowledge of marketing principles
- Demonstrated ability to work in a team-based environment with internal and external partners
- Demonstrated ability to conceive and write creatively for various audiences from technical information
- Strong organization skills and attention to detail
- Relevant technology skills required to prepare presentations and analyze data to construct reports
- Practical knowledge of marketing and branding principles
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.