Creative Director
University of South Carolina
- Spartanburg, SC
- $59,581-73,500 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
University of South Carolina Upstate
STA00181PO24
Spartanburg, SCThe Creative Director for USC Upstate is responsible for elevating and bringing USC Upstate's brand vision to life through unique and aspirational creative executions that build brand awareness of the university and celebrate its stories. Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor of Strategic Marketing and Communications, the Creative Director ideates, designs and produces digital and print materials, moving them from concept to completion. This position works with a variety of constituents including academic departments, university divisions, Office of the Chancellor, donor prospects and alumni.
Minimum QualificationsMaster's degree and 3 years professional experience related to the development and dissemination of informational material, or Bachelor's degree and 5 years related experience. Degree related to graphic design, experience working in graphic design required. A good driving record, valid driver's license and a successful background check are required.The Creative Director is a seasoned designer with a proven track record of creative, inspiring work in digital and print mediums, deadline oriented, and significant experience in brand management. Requires the ability to constantly prioritize and meet deadlines in a high demand environment and ability to work extended hours until the job is complete.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities· Demonstrated written and oral skills; success in performing complex tasks; prioritizing multiple projects; investigating, analyzing information and drawing conclusions. Deadline oriented. Knowledge of Associated Press style.· Excellent presentation skills and communication abilities; capable of representing the department and its work to university leadership.· Proficient knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, similar graphic design programs and Microsoft Office suite.· Excellent creativity, graphic design and communication skills. Expertise and demonstrated ability in design fundamentals.· Ability to translate communications strategies into engaging, authentic, and effective creative work.· Proven understanding of brand architecture, brand identity and brand positioning.· Knowledge of current industry trends and techniques, including video production, user experience design, social media trends, and other digital communications approaches.· Understanding of marketing in print, electronic and online media and how each differs in execution.· Proven ability to motivate, engage and work collaboratively across teams and departments.· Proven mentoring and team-building skills, including strong ability to provide clear creative direction and helpful feedback.· Experience following and improving production processes across creative formats, including brand, print, editorial, digital, and video projects.· Experience and ability to work with creative staff and provide leadership and direction in a creative team environment.Proven ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment with emphasis on collaboration and partnershipsJob DutiesJob DutyCreates comprehensive, original graphic design and layout concepts for marketing needs, including digital and print advertising, print publications, and promotional collateral. Develops guidelines and graphic identity standards for visual designs that support the university's overall branding philosophy and strategy. Serve as Lead Designer when needed. Designs to follow marketing best practices.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 30
Job DutyCollaborate with campus departmental partners to determine needs and deadlines, and develop and produce promotional materials for print and digital use. Facilitate the planning, creation and timely production of promotional materials that conform to brand standards. Oversee impactful brand experiences and a scalable design system across all university assets. Translate communications strategies and brand positioning into creative approaches that resonate with a range of target audiences. Serve as project manager for all design requests submitted to University Marketing and Communications.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 30
Job DutyAct as brand steward and leading visual identity expert with campus stakeholders and leadership. Uphold and enforce USC Upstate brand guidelines on all campus communications and provide guidance and constructive instruction to faculty and staff on branding best practices. Leads training sessions for campus community on brand guidelines and usage.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Job DutySupervise a graphic designer, a multimedia content producer and collaborates with Studio Upstate and freelancers as needed.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Job DutyOversee production of marketing materials, including gathering bids from vendors for printed and promotional items.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 15
Job DutyOther duties as assigned.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 5Position AttributesEmployees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive No
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential