Senior Graphics Designer (Communications Marketing Director)

There is no college anywhere in the U.S. or the world quite like John Jay. Founded in 1964, John Jay College of Criminal Justice – a senior college of The City University of New York – has evolved into the preeminent international leader in educating for justice in its many dimensions. The College offers a rich liberal arts and professional curriculum that prepares students to serve the public interest as ethical leaders and engaged citizens.

Reporting to the Chief Communications Officer at John Jay College, the Senior Graphics Designer (Communications Marketing Director) will:

• Oversee and produce creative designs and visually compelling materials for a wide variety of print and digital projects - including the College magazine, brochures and publications, product illustrations, logos, promotional displays, event promotion items, etc.
• Manage the graphic design team and manage multiple projects simultaneously from conception to completion within budgets and deadlines.
• Oversee, monitor and maintain College branding, style guide, graphic identity, and ensure design consistency and quality.
• Lead design team in creative and conceptual brainstorming to develop a variety of design solutions.
• Work collaboratively with department colleagues and College clients to determine project objectives, budget, audience, etc.
• Plan and develop design strategies, themes and options to reach targeted audience for key projects, and present recommended design options to clients, along with formats, costs, schedules, etc.
• Manage project timelines and schedules-in collaboration with Production Specialist and design team-to ensure that design and production work is on track to meet deadlines.
• Oversee the art direction of photo shoots as needed; work with freelance vendors as needed to ensure quality and timeliness.
• Review and approve proofs of print materials; attend press checks as needed and maintain quality checks on all marketing materials.
• Stay current on design trends and bring in innovative ideas and fresh concepts to continually enhance the College's visual brand, look and feel.
• Develops, implements, and oversees College-wide marketing plans to achieve institutional goals.
• Designs and executes a comprehensive strategic plan for marketing, advertising and communications
• Develops overall advertising and media strategies to achieve image, awareness, enrollment, recruiting, and/or fundraising goals
• Provide professional and managerial oversight of a broad range of marketing programs and tools, including digital, print, mail, broadcast, social networking, and other media
• Manages and develops internal staff and external resources
• Develops and analyzes key metrics of marketing effectiveness, as well as budgets and costs related to marketing programs and campaigns
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree and eight years' related experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of current design techniques, technology and tools for print and digital design, including Adobe Creative Suite. Experience with HTML, CSS and motion graphics is a plus.
• Knowledge of typography and high-level sense of good design and layout; knowledge of graphic production processes, quality control, costs, best practices; must be adaptable and a quick learner, with up-to-date knowledge of design trends, tools.
• Must possess artistic talent, eye for detail, strong conceptual skills and ability to present a variety of design solutions; be a team player with a passion for good design and customer service; have good interpersonal skills, as well as presentation and public speaking skills, along with active listening skills.
• Strong project/time management, leadership and organizational skills are essential, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively; ability to juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with higher education, recruitment, alumni outreach and student engagement is preferred.
• In addition, the ideal candidate will be a passionate and enthusiastic advocate for justice and serve as an ambassador for good design.