Design Manager

With a proven track record and a passion for design in all its forms, the Manager, Design provides
leadership and creative direction in management of marketing initiatives across the organization. The ideal
candidate will lead in the development and execution of thoughtful and imaginative creative solutions that
adhere to brand guidelines while challenging our visual aesthetic in ways that are as bold and innovative as
our mission. This multi-faceted creative team member and design expert will have an ability to multi-task
while utilizing various resources to manage workflow and team members within a deadline-driven
environment. This position is responsible for the production of quality and on-brand design products for
consumer marketing and communication efforts as well as for clients across the organization. A self-starter
and proactive team lead, the ideal candidate will have an ability to successfully collaborate with cross functional partners on all creative initiatives.
Managing a graphic designer and freelance creative contributors as well as assisting in the management
of interns, the Manager, Design reports to the Director of Visual Creative.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Oversee and lead creative design efforts, including the concepting and execution of website and social media graphics, long-form report designs, branding materials, brand campaigns, motion graphics, event trade show creative, presentations, interactive designs, illustrations and infographics.
2. Collaborate with other content teams on digital designs, ensuring all digital channels reflect and uphold brand standards while evolving.
3. Produce printed brand assets including but not limited to publications, invitations, brochures, flyers, newsletters, event signage, educational brochures, posters, postcards and other marketing materials.
4. Manage a team of creatives to uphold brand standards while also exploring new visual directions and visual communication strategies using audience data and industry-best practices.
5. In partnership with senior project manager, organize and manage the workflow of all design work orders and projects. Provide excellent service and develop professional, creative and effective solutions consistent with brand standards and within specified budgets and timelines. Review and assign projects and work orders; meet with clients; identify solutions and priorities, audience, budget, delivery date, and timeline for projects; and coordinate schedules within and across divisions as necessary.
6. Serve as a National Aquarium brand subject matter expert and guide to the communications team, the larger organization and cross-functional creative partners.
7. Use audience data and industry best practices to continually refine the National Aquarium brand design strategy.
8. Supervise any freelance designers and design interns.
9. Direct the bidding, purchasing and outsourcing of printing, paper, photography and related collateral materials that are high quality, cost-effective and eco-friendly.
10. Manage invoicing from vendors to ensure prompt payment.
11. Other duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor of Arts Degree in graphic design or creative field preferred.
2. 5-7 plus years professional experience in design for brands.
3. 2-3 years management experience.
4. Expert level proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite with demonstrated experience in illustration and publication layout.
5. Knowledge of commercial printing methods, postal mailings standards, and paper specifications.
6. Must have leadership skills and the ability to communicate effectively.
7. Able to perform under tight deadlines.
8. Excellent ability to multi-task and work in a team as well as independently as needed.
9. Strong knowledge of and passion for nature and conservation a plus.

Salary Range and Benefits: $75,000-80,000

National Aquarium provides an excellent benefits package, including four weeks paid time off, six paid floating holidays, up to four weeks of paid family leave and conservation day leave. Employees are eligible for health care (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work and 401(k) plan participation with employer match available. Employees receive a family membership package and Aquarium tickets.

About the National Aquarium:

The National Aquarium is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. Our compelling exhibits, science-based education programs and hands-on field initiatives engage more than 1.2 million people annually. One of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland, the Aquarium generates more than $430 million annually in economic impact to the state. The National Aquarium has hosted over 60 million guests since it opened in 1981.

How to Apply:

Interested and engaged applicants should apply through the link above. Requests for reasonable accommodation can be made by e-mailing Applicants should submit a letter of intent in their application package. Three references will be requested during the interview process.