Associate Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate Design Manager

Company: Haleon

Location: Warren, NJ, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Operations / Brand Execution

Date Posted: 2026-02-12

Experience Level: 7+ Years (as stated, but AI suggests 10+ based on role complexity)

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in-office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the operationalization and flawless execution of visual brand strategies across all omnichannel consumer touchpoints, ensuring brand consistency and market readiness.

• Drive production excellence by managing the end-to-end process for packaging, digital, retail, and promotional assets, translating design intent into deployable deliverables.

• Oversee adaptation and localization efforts, ensuring global and U.S. creative assets are accurately translated into local-market executions while maintaining brand integrity.

• Manage critical artwork, production, and pre-press workflows, including routing, annotation, regulatory compliance, version control, and vendor management for zero-defect delivery.

• Build and optimize efficient workflows, timelines, and cross-functional approval processes, identifying opportunities for asset system scalability and execution efficiencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input states "7+ years," the depth of responsibilities in managing end-to-end execution, production, agency/vendor governance, and cross-functional partnerships suggests a role that often aligns with professionals who have accumulated closer to 10+ years of experience in specialized design operations or production management. This is a critical role for translating strategy into tangible, market-ready assets at scale.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive execution process for packaging, digital, retail, and promotional assets, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.

• Translate approved design concepts and established brand systems into final, deployable deliverables that meet all technical and creative specifications.

• Ensure consistent and accurate application of brand guidelines, toolkits, and technical specifications across all channels and markets.

• Oversee artwork routing, annotation processes, regulatory requirements, version control, color management, and pre-press activities to guarantee flawless output.

• Manage and govern production partners, packaging studios, CAST, and execution agencies to ensure zero-defect delivery and adherence to quality standards.

• Build, optimize, and document workflows, project timelines, and cross-functional approval processes to enhance operational efficiency.

• Identify and implement scalable asset systems and execution efficiencies to streamline the delivery of marketing materials.

• Maintain exceptionally high standards of quality control across all asset outputs, acting as the guardian of brand execution.

• Collaborate closely with Shopper Marketing, Brand Activation, Digital, Sales, and eCommerce teams to ensure seamless deployment of final assets.

• Ensure channel-specific requirements, activation calendar timing, and technical specifications are meticulously met for all deployed assets.

• Manage execution vendors and agencies focused on adaptation and production, overseeing Statements of Work (SOWs), delivery timelines, budgets, and production accuracy.

• Champion a culture of executional excellence, precision, and continuous improvement within the operational framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities detailed focus heavily on process, production, and execution, rather than creative ideation. This role is about turning strategic design into tangible output. The emphasis on "zero-defect delivery," "production excellence," and "workflow management" indicates a strong need for individuals with a deep understanding of manufacturing and digital asset lifecycles in a CPG/consumer health context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field is typically expected for roles of this seniority and scope. Advanced degrees or certifications in Project Management or Operations are a plus.

Experience: 7+ years of progressive experience in design operations, omnichannel asset delivery, packaging production, artwork management, or a closely related field within a consumer goods or similar fast-paced industry.

Required Skills:

• Deep technical knowledge of production workflows, including pre-press, print processes (e.g., offset, flexo), and digital asset specifications for various platforms (web, social, mobile).

• Proven expertise in artwork management, including evaluation, file setup, color accuracy (CMYK, RGB, Pantone matching), versioning, and proofing processes.

• Strong project management skills with a demonstrated ability to manage high-volume, multi-channel asset execution from concept to deployment under tight deadlines.

• Extensive experience managing external agencies, packaging studios, and production vendors, including SOW management, performance evaluation, and relationship building.

• Proficiency in evaluating and approving final artwork for print and digital, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and brand standards.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a rigorous approach to quality assurance and quality control across all deliverables.

• Strong collaboration, communication (written and verbal), and stakeholder management abilities, with the capacity to influence and drive alignment across diverse teams.

• Familiarity with brand guideline development and adherence, ensuring consistency across all consumer touchpoints.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific CPG packaging production requirements and regulatory landscapes.

• Knowledge of global adaptation and localization processes for marketing and packaging assets.

• Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) from a production oversight perspective.

• Experience in a consumer health or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) environment.

• Understanding of e-commerce asset requirements and digital marketing best practices.

• Experience with Agile methodologies in a creative operations context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "7+ years" requirement, coupled with the breadth of technical production knowledge (pre-press, print processes, color management) and agency management, points towards a need for a seasoned professional. The role demands not just project management but deep operational and production acumen. Highlighting specific types of print production (flexo, offset) and digital asset specifications will be crucial for demonstrating relevant expertise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of managing complex, multi-channel asset production projects from initiation to completion, showcasing workflow efficiency and on-time delivery.

• Include case studies that highlight successful adaptation and localization projects, illustrating accuracy, fidelity, and adherence to brand guidelines across different markets.

• Showcase examples of managing production partners and agencies, detailing how quality, timelines, and budgets were effectively controlled to achieve zero-defect outcomes.

• Present evidence of process optimization initiatives, such as the development of scalable asset systems or workflow improvements that led to measurable efficiency gains.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow diagrams, process maps, or standard operating procedures (SOPs) developed for creative production or asset management.

• Documentation of how cross-functional approvals were managed and optimized, including stakeholder engagement strategies and timeline management.

• Case studies or reports detailing the implementation and impact of asset management systems (e.g., DAM) or workflow automation tools.

• Evidence of quality assurance processes, including checklists, review cycles, and error tracking mechanisms used to ensure asset integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just display creative work but actively demonstrate operational prowess. Candidates should be prepared to walk through specific project lifecycles, highlighting their role in process mapping, vendor management, quality assurance, and the successful deployment of assets. Quantifiable results (e.g., reduction in rework, faster time-to-market) are highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $104,283 - $143,389 USD per year, plus a discretionary bonus.

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation: Includes base salary and a discretionary bonus tied to business performance.

• Retirement Savings: Generous 401(k) plan.

• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement programs to support continued learning and skill enhancement.

• Work-Life Balance: Comprehensive time off programs, including 6 months of paid parental leave.

• Health & Wellness: Robust healthcare programs with significant company contribution towards medical coverage for employees and their families, effective from day one.

• Incentive Programs: Eligibility for other incentive/recognition programs as part of the overall Total Reward package.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. The role operates on a hybrid model, requiring 3 days per week in the Warren, NJ office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for an Associate Design Manager role with significant operational responsibilities in the New Jersey area, reflecting the required experience level and the critical nature of the role in ensuring brand execution. The benefits package is comprehensive, emphasizing work-life balance and employee well-being, which are strong attractors for experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consumer Healthcare. Haleon is a leading global company focused on everyday health, with a portfolio of trusted brands in categories like pain relief, respiratory health, and oral care. This industry demands rigorous quality control, regulatory awareness, and a strong connection with consumer needs.

Company Size: Haleon is a large, global organization, having spun off from GSK. This implies a robust structure, established processes, and significant resources, but also a need for clear operational discipline to navigate its scale.

Founded: Haleon was established as an independent company in July 2022, following its demerger from GSK. Its heritage, however, is built on decades of consumer health expertise from GSK's consumer healthcare division. This blend of new independence and established legacy shapes its agile yet experienced approach.

Team Structure:

• The Associate Design Manager reports directly to the Category Design Manager, U.S. This indicates a structured reporting line within a broader design or marketing function.

• The role requires extensive cross-functional collaboration with teams such as Shopper Marketing, Brand Activation, Digital, Sales, and eCommerce. This implies a matrixed environment where strong partnership and communication are essential.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Execution: While this role is focused on execution, the success metrics (on-time delivery, zero rework, brand consistency) highlight a data-informed approach to operational performance.

• Agile & Performance-Focused: Haleon emphasizes an agile, performance-focused culture. This translates to efficient workflows, rapid adaptation, and a drive for measurable results in asset delivery.

• Human Understanding & Trusted Science: The company's core values emphasize deep human understanding and trusted science, which should be reflected in the quality and accuracy of the brand assets produced.

Company Website: https://www.haleon.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Haleon's position as a major player in consumer healthcare means that brand execution must be flawless, adhering to strict guidelines and quality standards. The company's "Win as One" strategy and agile culture suggest a dynamic environment where efficient operations are critical for success. Understanding the company's purpose ("better everyday health with humanity") can inform how candidates approach their work and communication.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an "Associate Design Manager," typically indicating a mid-to-senior level professional who manages specific operational functions within a design or marketing department. It requires significant experience and the ability to operate with a high degree of autonomy on execution-related tasks, bridging the gap between strategic design direction and final market-ready output.

Reporting Structure: The Associate Design Manager reports to the Category Design Manager. This structure suggests a clear hierarchy within the U.S. design operations team, with the Category Design Manager likely responsible for the overarching visual brand strategy and the Associate Design Manager focused on its tactical execution and operationalization.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and tangible impact on Haleon's ability to launch and maintain its diverse portfolio of brands effectively. By ensuring accurate, timely, and high-quality execution of visual assets across all consumer touchpoints, the role directly supports brand perception, market penetration, and ultimately, sales performance. Flawless execution minimizes costly rework and delays, safeguarding brand integrity and consumer trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Operations Leadership: Progression to a Design Operations Manager or Director role, overseeing larger teams, broader scopes of work, or multiple categories/regions.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas such as packaging production, digital asset management, or global brand localization.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related roles within Brand Management, Marketing Operations, or Project Management, leveraging operational expertise.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Leading initiatives to implement new technologies, optimize workflows, or develop best practices for creative operations within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Associate" title, combined with the "7+ years" requirement and extensive responsibilities, suggests a role with significant growth potential. Candidates demonstrating strong operational discipline, process thinking, and leadership qualities can expect to advance within Haleon's growing structure. The hybrid model also offers a balance that can appeal to experienced professionals seeking career progression with work-life integration.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Haleon operates on a hybrid model, requiring 3 days per week in the Warren, NJ office. This suggests a modern, collaborative office space designed to facilitate teamwork, brainstorming, and in-person interactions, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): The primary location for this role is Warren, NJ. This area is a significant hub for many large corporations, offering a professional business environment. Accessibility via major roadways and public transport options (though likely car-dependent for daily commute) would be typical for such a location.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates a workspace that supports both focused individual work and dynamic team collaboration. Expect meeting rooms equipped for hybrid meetings, open-plan areas, and potentially quiet zones.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to necessary operational tools, project management software, and potentially Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems will be integral to the workspace. The company's investment in technology will be evident in the efficiency of its operations.

• Team Interaction: The 3-day in-office requirement is designed to foster stronger relationships, facilitate spontaneous problem-solving, and ensure alignment with the broader marketing and design teams.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid model. Operations roles often require strict adherence to deadlines, so while flexibility exists, the ability to manage workload and meet project timelines, potentially with occasional extended hours during critical launch periods, is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key aspect of the work environment. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they maintain productivity and collaboration in both in-office and remote settings. The Warren, NJ location is a typical corporate environment for large consumer goods companies in the Northeast US.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a recruiter or HR screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the Category Design Manager to evaluate technical skills, operational experience, project management capabilities, and understanding of brand execution.

• Panel Interview / Team Fit: Interviews with key cross-functional stakeholders (e.g., Shopper Marketing, Brand Activation, Digital) to assess collaboration style, communication effectiveness, and ability to integrate into the team.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio review or a hypothetical scenario related to managing a complex asset execution project. This will assess problem-solving skills, process thinking, and presentation abilities.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Process, Not Just Output: For this role, emphasize the how behind your successes. Detail the workflows you managed, the challenges in production, how you mitigated risks, and how you ensured quality.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics. Examples: "Reduced artwork rework by X%," "Delivered Y assets 2 weeks ahead of schedule," "Managed a production budget of $Z, achieving X% cost savings."

• Structure Case Studies: For each example, clearly state the objective, your role, the process followed, the tools/vendors used, the outcome, and key learnings.

• Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration: Highlight instances where you successfully partnered with different departments to achieve asset deployment goals.

• Showcase Technical Understanding: Be prepared to discuss specific production challenges (e.g., color profiles, file formats, printing techniques) and how you addressed them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Workflow Design: Be ready to discuss how you would map out and optimize a workflow for a new product launch or a campaign requiring multiple asset types across various channels.

• Problem Solving: Prepare for scenarios like a critical production delay, a major brand guideline misinterpretation, or managing conflicting stakeholder feedback on assets.

• Vendor Management: Think about how you would select, brief, and manage production vendors to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

• Brand Consistency: Discuss strategies for maintaining brand consistency across a large, diverse portfolio and numerous touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "operationalizing and delivering" the brand strategy strongly suggests that a portfolio review will be a critical component. Candidates should prepare to articulate their role in the execution lifecycle, showcasing their ability to manage complex projects and ensure high-quality, on-brand outputs. Demonstrating an understanding of the CPG/consumer health industry's specific production demands will be advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in tools like Asana, Monday.com, Jira, or similar platforms for workflow management, task tracking, and timeline adherence.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: Experience with DAM platforms for organizing, storing, retrieving, and distributing brand assets. Examples include Bynder, Canto, Widen, or similar enterprise solutions.

• Adobe Creative Suite: While not a creative role, a strong understanding of how Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop are used in production workflows, including file setup, pre-press considerations, and asset export, is essential.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Google Workspace for communication and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to interpret and potentially contribute to dashboards that track asset delivery timelines, project status, and quality metrics. Familiarity with tools like Tableau or Power BI could be beneficial for understanding performance data.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for tracking, data analysis, and reporting on project components, budgets, and timelines.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM management role, understanding how marketing and design assets integrate with CRM and marketing automation platforms (e.g., Salesforce Marketing Cloud, HubSpot) for campaign execution can be advantageous.

• Familiarity with workflow automation principles to identify opportunities for streamlining asset production and deployment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a strong command of operational tools, particularly in project management and asset management. While direct creative software proficiency isn't the focus, understanding their output and integration within production pipelines is key. Experience with enterprise-level DAM and project management systems is highly desirable for managing a large brand portfolio.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Executional Excellence: A core value, prioritizing precision, accuracy, and flawless delivery of visual assets. This means meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to meeting brand standards.

• Operational Discipline: A methodical and organized approach to managing complex workflows, timelines, and multiple stakeholders. This fosters reliability and efficiency.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships with internal brand teams, marketing, sales, and external agency partners is paramount. Success is achieved through collective effort.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset focused on identifying opportunities to enhance processes, improve efficiency, and scale operational systems for greater effectiveness.

• Quality Guardianship: Acting as the organizational guardian of quality, ensuring all assets align with brand integrity, regulatory requirements, and market expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Responsive: Engaging with stakeholders proactively to anticipate needs and respond efficiently to requests or issues.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with diverse teams, understanding their unique requirements and timelines, and facilitating smooth asset deployment.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: Encouraging a culture where feedback on workflows and processes is shared constructively to drive ongoing optimization.

• Transparent Communication: Maintaining open and honest communication regarding project status, potential challenges, and resolutions with all relevant parties.

📝 Enhancement Note: Haleon's stated values of "purpose-driven," "human understanding," and "trusted science" should be reflected in the operational approach. This means not just executing tasks but understanding the why behind them – how these assets contribute to the brand's mission and consumer trust. The culture likely values efficiency, reliability, and a collaborative spirit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing High Volume & Complexity: Balancing the execution of a large volume of diverse assets across multiple brands and channels, each with unique specifications and timelines.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency at Scale: Ensuring unwavering brand integrity and accuracy across a vast portfolio and numerous consumer touchpoints, often with contributions from various teams and vendors.

• Navigating Evolving Digital Landscapes: Adapting asset production and delivery to keep pace with rapid changes in digital platforms, formats, and consumer engagement strategies.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Achieving consensus and seamless collaboration among numerous internal departments (Brand, Marketing, Sales, Legal, Regulatory) and external partners, each with potentially competing priorities.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Meeting aggressive timelines for asset deployment while maintaining the highest standards of quality and accuracy, a constant tension in fast-paced CPG environments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening Production Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of various print production techniques, digital asset optimization, and global localization challenges specific to the CPG and consumer health sectors.

• Process Optimization & Automation: Leading projects to implement new technologies, streamline workflows, and leverage automation to enhance operational efficiency and scalability.

• Strategic Brand Operations: Developing a broader strategic understanding of how design operations contribute to overall business objectives and brand performance.

• Leadership & Management Skills: Honing leadership capabilities through managing vendors, influencing stakeholders, and potentially mentoring junior team members.

• Industry Best Practices: Staying abreast of evolving trends in design operations, asset management, and marketing technology through industry resources and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges listed highlight the dynamic and demanding nature of design operations within a large consumer goods company. Candidates who thrive in complex, fast-paced environments and are adept at problem-solving and process improvement will find significant opportunities for growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience operationalizing a visual brand strategy. Walk us through a specific example from concept to market-ready asset deployment." (Focus on process, workflow, and your role.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency and quality across a high volume of assets and multiple channels, especially when working with external agencies?" (Assess attention to detail, quality control, and vendor management.)

• "Imagine a new product launch requires a full suite of assets for packaging, digital ads, social media, and in-store displays. How would you plan and manage this execution process from start to finish?" (Evaluate project management, workflow planning, and cross-functional coordination.)

• "What are your strategies for managing production timelines and ensuring on-time delivery, particularly when dealing with potential delays or unforeseen issues?" (Test problem-solving, risk management, and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Haleon and our mission to deliver 'better everyday health with humanity'?" (Prepare to connect your operational skills to the company's purpose.)

• "How do you foster a culture of executional excellence and continuous improvement within a team or on a project?" (Demonstrate leadership and proactive mindset.)

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with challenging stakeholders or manage conflicting priorities across departments. How did you resolve it?" (Assess communication, negotiation, and collaboration skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Relevant Examples: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your operational expertise in asset execution, production management, and workflow optimization. Prioritize CPG or similar industry examples if possible.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the process you followed (including any workflow diagrams or tools used), the challenges encountered and how you overcame them, the vendors/teams involved, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., on-time delivery, quality improvements, cost savings).

• Highlight Process, Not Just Creativity: Emphasize your role in managing timelines, budgets, quality control, vendor relationships, and cross-functional approvals. Detail your understanding of pre-press, print, and digital specifications.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical aspects of production, agency management, and how you ensured brand consistency.

• Connect to Haleon: If possible, subtly link your experiences and skills to Haleon's brands, industry, and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily focus on practical, operational scenarios. Candidates should prepare to speak in detail about their experience managing production pipelines, working with vendors, and ensuring quality. A strong understanding of CPG/consumer health production requirements and the ability to articulate complex processes clearly will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Haleon careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight keywords and responsibilities directly from the job description, such as "Design Operations," "Omnichannel Asset Delivery," "Packaging Production," "Artwork Management," "Workflow Optimization," "Project Management," and "Agency/Vendor Management." Quantify achievements with metrics wherever possible (e.g., "Managed X number of SKUs through production," "Reduced rework by Y%").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that demonstrate your operational expertise in asset execution, production, and process management. Focus on showcasing your role in managing workflows, timelines, quality, and cross-functional collaboration. Be ready to present this effectively.

• Research Haleon: Familiarize yourself with Haleon's brand portfolio (Sensodyne, Panadol, Advil, etc.), their purpose ("better everyday health with humanity"), and their agile, performance-focused culture. Understand their market position in consumer healthcare.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions related to project management, operational challenges, stakeholder management, and quality assurance. Practice articulating your portfolio examples clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.