Design Director
We are looking for a visionary Design Director to lead a talented team, driving exceptional design work and contributing to our growth and reputation in the industry.
JOB SUMMARY
Kaleidoscope is a dynamic, tier-2 creative agency with a strong reputation in brand packaging design, innovation, and brand marketing support, serving both established brands and innovative start-ups.
We are looking for a visionary Design Director to lead a talented team, driving exceptional design work and contributing to our growth and reputation in the industry.
As the Design Director, you will be responsible for overseeing the creative process, from beginning concepts through final executions, ensuring that all work meets our agency’s high standards and aligns with client goals. You will lead and inspire a team of designers, work directly with clients, and collaborate closely with other departments to deliver outstanding results.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Leadership and Management:
- Lead and mentor a team of designers, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Provide clear direction and constructive feedback to ensure the team’s growth and success.
- Manage workload and resources to meet project deadlines and deliver high-quality work.
Creative Strategy and Execution:
- Develop and articulate creative strategies using Kaleidoscope’s Pointing North methodology that aligns with client goals and brand positioning.
- Must exhibit a strong grasp and comprehension of design systems, particularly in their application to brand portfolios.
- Proven experience in photography art direction, particularly in the context of food packaging.
- Oversee the design process from concept to final delivery, ensuring creative excellence and consistency across all touchpoints.
- Balance hands-on design work with oversight responsibilities, contributing to key projects.
Client Engagement:
- Act as the primary creative contact for key clients, building strong relationships and understanding their business objectives.
- Present creative concepts and strategies to clients, effectively communicating the value of design in achieving their goals.
- Collaborate with account teams to ensure client satisfaction and successful project outcomes.
Innovation & Trends:
- Stay current with design trends, industry developments, and emerging technologies.
- Encourage the team to explore innovative approaches, pushing the boundaries of creativity.
- Lead the agency in developing new capabilities and offers that align with market demands.
Quality Control & Brand Consistency:
- Ensure all design work meets the agency’s high standards for creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
- Support brand consistency across all projects, ensuring that each client’s unique brand voice is respected and amplified.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience:
- 8+ years of experience in a design leadership role, with a strong portfolio highlighting successful projects in brand packaging design.
- Proven experience working in a tier-2 or tier-1 agency environment, with a track record of leading teams and delivering exceptional design solutions.
Skills:
- Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant design tools.
- Strong understanding of brand strategy, packaging design, and visual communication.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and client management skills.
- Ability to think strategically and translate client objectives into compelling design solutions.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field.
- Master’s degree is a plus.
Personal Attributes:
- A passion for design and a deep understanding of its role in brand building.
- A collaborative spirit and a willingness to lead by example.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Versatile communicator and team builder.
Salary Range: $110,000 - $142,000
- Department
- Design
- Locations
- Chicago
- Remote status
- Hybrid
