Beca Marketing Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Beca Marketing Designer

Company: The Cocktail (part of WPP)

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time, Temporary (with potential for permanent)

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-10

Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is designed for an aspiring Marketing Designer with a passion for visual design, digital marketing, and art direction, focusing on creating impactful digital assets.

• The position involves leveraging creativity and a keen aesthetic sense to develop visual content for various digital channels, ensuring alignment with client brand guidelines and campaign objectives.

• A significant aspect of this role includes exploring and integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools into the creative workflow for concept generation and asset creation.

• The role offers a dynamic opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with UX, SEO, Data, and Technology specialists on innovative projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Marketing Designer," the responsibilities heavily lean into creative production and visual asset development for digital marketing campaigns. Given the emphasis on AI integration and collaboration with diverse teams, this role can be viewed as a specialized "Creative Operations" or "Marketing Design Operations" function within a larger agency context. The temporary nature with potential for permanent hire suggests an internship or a trial period for a promising candidate.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop creative ideas for digital communication and advertising campaigns, aligning with client objectives.

• Design a wide range of visual assets for digital platforms, including banners, newsletters, emails, and social media content.

• Ensure all visual designs adhere to established brand guidelines, maintaining a coherent and effective brand communication strategy.

• Adapt creative assets for various media and technical specifications, including HTML, GIFs, video, and social media formats.

• Utilize design software such as Figma, Adobe Photoshop, and Illustrator for asset creation and manipulation.

• Actively explore and integrate AI tools to support and enhance the creative process, from idea generation to final asset refinement.

• Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams, including UX/UI designers, SEO specialists, data analysts, and technology experts.

• Engage with clients throughout the creative process, participating in feedback sessions and contributing to decision-making.

• Review and work with technical documentation, which may be in English.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and operational efficiency. The expectation to "adapt creatives to different supports and technical specifications" and "work with documentation in English" points to a need for a structured approach to design tasks and a proactive attitude towards learning and problem-solving. The emphasis on AI integration suggests the company is forward-thinking in its creative operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Design, Digital Marketing, Visual Communication, or a related field. Experience:

• 0-2 years of professional experience in digital design, art direction, or creative roles. Required Skills:

• Strong aesthetic sensibility and meticulous attention to detail.

• Proficiency in design software: Figma, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator.

• Familiarity with UI/UX design principles and digital interface design.

• Demonstrable interest and curiosity in exploring new tools and trends, particularly AI applied to design and creativity.

• High level of English proficiency for international collaboration and technical documentation.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for client and team interaction.

• Proactive, curious, and a strong team player with a passion for professional growth. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in animation, motion graphics, or video editing.

• Knowledge of digital formats such as HTML, GIFs, or video production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Beca" (internship/scholarship) title combined with "at least a first professional experience" suggests this role is ideal for recent graduates or individuals with limited but impactful prior experience. The explicit mention of AI tools and English proficiency indicates a modern and globally-minded creative environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of digital design projects, demonstrating visual aesthetic and attention to detail.

• Include examples of work that highlight creative conceptualization for digital campaigns.

• Present designs that adhere to brand guidelines and campaign objectives, illustrating strategic thinking.

• If possible, include projects where AI tools were explored or utilized to enhance the design process or outcome. Process Documentation:

• Examples of how design concepts were translated into final digital assets (e.g., banners, newsletters).

• Evidence of adaptability in creating assets for diverse digital channels and technical specifications.

• A clear demonstration of how brand consistency was maintained across different projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio should emphasize potential and foundational skills. The company is looking for candidates who can demonstrate a structured approach to design tasks and a willingness to innovate, especially with AI. The emphasis on adaptability and brand adherence is key to successful client work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is a "Beca" (internship/scholarship) role, compensation is likely to be at an entry-level or intern rate for Madrid, Spain. Based on industry standards for similar roles in Madrid, a range of €12,000 - €18,000 annually (gross) for a full-time temporary contract is a reasonable estimate. This would translate to approximately €1,000 - €1,500 per month gross. Benefits:

• Hybrid work model: Offers flexibility with a balance between remote work and office presence.

• Contract: 6-month full-time contract with the possibility of permanent employment.

• Professional growth opportunities: Encouragement to learn and develop within a challenging and innovative environment.

• Multidisciplinary team environment: Opportunity to collaborate with and learn from specialists in various fields (UX, SEO, Data, Technology).

• No dress code: Fosters a comfortable and inclusive work atmosphere.

• Dynamic and innovative culture: Work in an environment that values debate, innovation, and transformation.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, with an estimated 40 hours per week. The hybrid model implies approximately 4 days per week in the Madrid office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general knowledge of entry-level design roles in Madrid and the typical structure of "Becas" in Spain. The benefits highlight a modern work environment focused on flexibility, professional development, and employee well-being. The potential for a permanent role is a significant draw for candidates seeking to launch their careers.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Consulting / Digital Transformation / Marketing & Advertising (part of WPP)

Company Size: The Cocktail is part of WPP, a global leader in advertising, public relations, and communications services. WPP has a significant global presence with numerous employees. The Cocktail itself operates as a distinct unit within this larger structure, likely fostering a more agile and specialized agency culture.

Founded: The Cocktail was founded in 2001, with VML and WPP merging to form VML in early 2024. This history suggests a company with established expertise and a forward-looking approach to digital innovation.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the creative team, which is part of The Cocktail's broader consulting and technology services.

• The team is multidisciplinary, integrating specialists from strategy, design, technology, data, and research.

• Reporting structure likely involves a Creative Lead or Art Director, with collaboration across various departments. Methodology:

• Data-driven and technology-focused: The company emphasizes using data and technology to drive client growth and improve brand-person relationships.

• Agile and innovative: A culture that encourages rapid execution, innovation, and embracing new tools like AI.

• Collaborative: Cross-functional teams work together to deliver integrated solutions.

Company Website: https://www.the-cocktail.com/ and https://www.vml.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The integration into VML (a WPP company) signifies a robust organizational backing with access to extensive resources and a global network, while The Cocktail likely maintains its unique entrepreneurial and innovative spirit. This dual identity is important for understanding the company's scale and culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level "Beca" or internship role, serving as a foundational step into a career in digital design, art direction, or creative operations within a major agency. It's an opportunity to build practical experience and understand agency workflows.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a senior member of the creative team (e.g., Art Director, Creative Lead). Collaboration is expected with peers in design, as well as with specialists in UX, SEO, Data, and Technology.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of process optimization, this position contributes to the operational efficiency of the creative department by producing high-quality digital assets that meet client requirements and timelines. The integration of AI aims to streamline creative processes, directly impacting operational output.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in design tools (Figma, Adobe Suite) and gain practical experience with AI tools in a professional context.

• Career Progression: Successful completion of the temporary contract can lead to a permanent Junior Designer or similar role. Potential to specialize further in areas like motion graphics, video editing, or AI-driven creative.

• Industry Exposure: Gain valuable experience in a leading multinational agency (VML/WPP), building a strong professional network and resume.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a stepping stone. The growth potential lies in mastering core design skills, understanding agency operations, and adapting to new technologies like AI, setting the foundation for future specialization and advancement within the VML/WPP network.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, with a significant presence expected at the Madrid offices.

Office Location(s): Madrid, Spain. Specific office details are not provided but are implied to be a central hub for hybrid work.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Designed to foster interaction and idea exchange among team members. The hybrid model suggests structured in-office collaboration days.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Figma, Adobe Suite) and exposure to emerging AI creative tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to work closely with diverse specialists and clients, promoting a dynamic and engaging work experience.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time (approximately 40 hours per week).

• Hybrid work arrangement, with an expectation of around 4 days per week in the office. This structure supports both focused individual work and collaborative team activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model with a stated expectation of 4 days in the office indicates a preference for in-person collaboration and team cohesion, while still offering a degree of flexibility. This setup is typical for agencies aiming to balance focused creative work with team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative skills.

• Creative Assessment/Test: Likely a design challenge or task to evaluate practical skills, conceptual thinking, and ability to work with given constraints (e.g., brand guidelines, AI tool usage).

• Interviews: May involve discussions with hiring managers, creative leads, and potentially HR. Focus will be on assessing creative potential, problem-solving abilities, cultural fit, and interest in AI.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through selected portfolio pieces, discussing creative process, design choices, and learning from past projects.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Effectively: Select 3-5 strong, relevant projects that showcase your best work in digital design and creative conceptualization.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your role, the creative process, the tools used (especially Figma, Adobe Suite, and any AI tools), and the outcome.

• Demonstrate Adaptability: Include examples that show your ability to design for different digital formats and adhere to brand guidelines.

• Showcase AI Exploration: If you have experimented with AI in your design process, be prepared to discuss your findings, challenges, and the impact on your work.

• Tell a Story: Frame your portfolio as a narrative of your growth and passion for design.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand any design challenge provided, paying close attention to objectives, target audience, and constraints.

• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively to complete the challenge within the given timeframe.

• Presentation: Be prepared to present your solution, explaining your rationale, design choices, and how you addressed the brief.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the emphasis will be on potential, foundational skills, and a proactive attitude towards learning and embracing new technologies like AI. The portfolio should reflect creativity, technical proficiency, and an understanding of digital marketing principles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI/UX design, prototyping, and collaborative design workflows.

• Adobe Photoshop: Critical for image editing, manipulation, and creating complex visual assets.

• Adobe Illustrator: Necessary for vector graphics, logos, and scalable design elements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with how design assets perform on digital channels will be beneficial, though direct analytics tool usage might not be required at this level. Understanding of A/B testing principles for creative assets is a plus. CRM & Automation:

• While not directly using CRM or automation tools, understanding how digital marketing campaigns are executed and tracked will provide context for design asset creation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core tools are standard for digital design. The explicit mention of AI tools suggests that familiarity or a strong willingness to learn and experiment with platforms like Midjourney, DALL-E, or Adobe Firefly will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Transformation: A core value of embracing change, driving innovation, and transforming client relationships through design and technology.

• Creativity & Diversity: Fostering a diverse environment where creativity thrives, with a mix of specialist skills.

• Excellence & Challenger Mindset: A passion for excellence, a willingness to challenge the status quo, and a drive to achieve ambitious goals.

• Collaboration & Learning: Emphasis on teamwork, continuous learning, and mutual support within multidisciplinary teams.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Design work is integrated with strategy, data, and technology to create holistic solutions.

• Client-Centric: Direct client interaction and collaboration are part of the process, requiring clear communication and responsiveness.

• Open Debate: The culture encourages discussion and debate, valuing different perspectives to achieve the best outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a proactive, innovative, and collaborative approach. Candidates are expected to be self-starters, comfortable with challenging conventions, and eager to learn from and contribute to a diverse team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Adapting to AI Integration: Learning to effectively incorporate AI tools into a design workflow while maintaining creative control and quality.

• Client Management: Gaining experience in presenting creative work, receiving feedback, and managing client expectations.

• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Effectively communicating design concepts and collaborating with non-design specialists.

• Fast-Paced Agency Environment: Keeping up with project demands, deadlines, and evolving client needs in a dynamic agency setting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Tool Mastery: Opportunity to become proficient in using cutting-edge AI tools for creative purposes.

• Agency Workflow Expertise: Learn the end-to-end process of creative campaign development within a leading global agency.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain insights into UX, SEO, Data, and Technology from integrated team members.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced professionals who can guide career development and skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are opportunities for significant professional growth, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of AI-assisted design. The company actively supports learning and development within its dynamic environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a banner ad for a new sustainable product, considering the brand's minimalist aesthetic and the need to convey environmental benefits?" (Focus on conceptualization, brand adherence, and communication strategy)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt a design for a different digital platform or technical specification. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on adaptability and problem-solving)

• "How do you see Artificial Intelligence impacting the future of graphic design and art direction?" (Focus on forward-thinking and understanding of AI trends) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about The Cocktail and VML, and why this role specifically?" (Assess motivation and alignment with company values)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Evaluate receptiveness to feedback and collaborative spirit)

• "Describe your experience or interest in working with multidisciplinary teams." (Assess collaboration skills and cross-functional awareness) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by skill demonstrated.

• Narrative: For each project, explain the "why" behind your design choices, focusing on problem-solving and strategic thinking.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Figma, Adobe Suite, and any AI tools you've used, explaining how they aided your process.

• Impact: Quantify results where possible, or explain the intended impact of your designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will look for creativity, technical aptitude, a strong understanding of digital design principles, excellent communication skills, and a genuine curiosity for AI's role in design. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio in detail and articulate your thought process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Marketing Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight relevant design skills, any internship experience, proficiency in Figma, Photoshop, Illustrator, and any exposure to AI tools or English-language projects. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest digital design projects, ensuring they showcase your aesthetic, technical skills, and understanding of campaign objectives. Prepare to discuss your creative process and tool usage.

• Prepare for Design Challenges: Practice creating design assets under time constraints, focusing on adhering to brand guidelines and creative briefs.

• Research The Cocktail/VML: Understand their client work, company culture, and values. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit and how you can contribute to their innovative approach, especially regarding AI integration.

⚠️ 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.