Design Manager

Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Engagement: 6-12 months (with potential for extension)

Hours: Approximately 30 hours per week

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Design Manager to lead and oversee design initiatives for our brand. In this role, you will be a key player in ensuring the visual expression of our brand is consistently applied and elevated across a variety of projects. You will work independently and collaboratively with internal teams and external agencies to deliver high-quality design solutions that meet strategic objectives and uphold brand standards.

Responsibilities:

• Project Management: Independently manage the design process for a range of projects, including portfolio-level rollouts, adaptive line extensions, and Tier 2 brand redesigns. This includes:
  • Developing and managing project timelines and budgets
  • Defining project scope and objectives
  • Identifying and mitigating potential risks
  • Reporting on project progress and key performance indicators
• Brief Development & Collaboration: Translate business and marketing objectives into clear and comprehensive design briefs for external agencies. Collaborate effectively with Brand and Innovation teams to ensure cross-functional alignment on project goals and design direction.
• Agency Management: Oversee and direct the work of external design agencies, photographers, and illustrators. Provide clear feedback, guidance, and approvals throughout the design process.
• Production Collaboration: Partner closely with the Production team to ensure design intent is accurately carried through to final execution across all touchpoints.
• Brand Stewardship: Ensure all design work adheres to established brand guidelines and contributes to a cohesive brand identity.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of proven experience in design management, ideally within a fast-paced consumer goods or agency environment.
• A strong portfolio showcasing experience managing diverse design projects from concept to completion.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills with the ability to clearly articulate design rationale and build consensus across teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software.
• A keen eye for detail and a passion for design excellence.

Bonus Points:

• Experience working with brand guidelines and design systems.
• Familiarity with print production processes.

The hourly rate for this position is 50-58 depending on experience.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.

Our talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive