Beca Marketing Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Beca Marketing Designer

Company: The Cocktail (part of VML, a WPP Company)

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time Internship (6 months, with possibility of indefinite incorporation)

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: October 28, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is designed for an aspiring Marketing Designer with a strong foundation in digital product design and a keen interest in art direction within the digital marketing landscape.

• The position involves the conceptualization and creation of visual assets for digital communication and advertising campaigns, ensuring alignment with client brand identities and project objectives.

• A significant aspect of the role will be the exploration and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance creative processes, from idea generation to asset creation and adaptation.

• The successful candidate will be integrated into a multidisciplinary creative team, collaborating with specialists in UX, SEO, Data, and Technology, fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is an internship position focused on gaining practical experience in digital design and art direction within a fast-paced consultancy. The emphasis on AI tools suggests a forward-thinking approach to creative workflows, requiring a candidate eager to learn and experiment with emerging technologies. The role is within a creative agency context, implying a need for strong aesthetic sensibilities and client-facing communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop creative ideas for digital advertising and communication campaigns, focusing on visual storytelling and brand impact.

• Design a variety of digital visual assets, including but not limited to banners, newsletters, email campaigns, and social media graphics, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and project specifications.

• Adapt and optimize creative assets for diverse digital channels and technical formats, such as HTML, GIFs, short-form video, and social media platforms.

• Actively explore, experiment with, and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools into the design workflow to support concept generation, visual asset creation, and content adaptation, staying abreast of new AI capabilities in design.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including UX/UI designers, SEO specialists, data analysts, and technologists, to ensure holistic campaign effectiveness and cohesive project execution.

• Participate in client-facing meetings, present creative concepts, gather feedback, and contribute to decision-making processes, developing client communication skills.

• Consult and work with technical documentation, which may be in English, to ensure accurate implementation of creative assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core graphic design tasks with a modern focus on digital formats and AI integration. The requirement to adapt creatives to various technical specifications (HTML, video, etc.) indicates a need for versatility and a hands-on approach to asset production. Client interaction is a key component, emphasizing the development of soft skills alongside technical design abilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Pursuing or holding a degree in Design, Digital Marketing, Visual Communication, Advertising, or a closely related field. Experience:

• Demonstrated foundational experience in digital design, art direction, or creative roles, preferably through internships, academic projects, or personal portfolios. Required Skills:

• Strong aesthetic sense and attention to detail in visual design.

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

• Understanding of UI/UX principles and familiarity with interface design concepts.

• Genuine interest in and willingness to explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for creative applications, demonstrating curiosity and a proactive learning attitude.

• High level of proficiency in English (written and spoken) for collaboration in international projects and teams.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork and client interaction.

• Demonstrated initiative, proactivity, and a passion for continuous learning and professional growth.

• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.

• Availability for a full-time work schedule. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with digital formats such as HTML, GIFs, and basic video editing.

• Experience with animation or motion graphics.

• Experience with AI-powered design tools (e.g., Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, Adobe Firefly) and an understanding of their creative potential and limitations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on both core design tools (Figma, Adobe Suite) and emerging AI tools indicates the company's commitment to modern creative workflows. The requirement for high English proficiency is crucial given the international nature of WPP and its clients. A strong portfolio showcasing aesthetic sensibility and creative problem-solving will be vital, especially given the entry-level nature of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of digital design projects that demonstrate aesthetic sensibility, attention to detail, and understanding of visual hierarchy.

• Include examples of campaign-specific creative assets (e.g., banners, social media graphics) that illustrate the ability to adapt designs to different platforms and objectives.

• Highlight projects where you have applied UI/UX principles to enhance user experience or interface design.

• Feature any exploration or application of emerging technologies, especially AI tools, in your design process, even if experimental. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, from initial concept ideation and mood boarding to final asset delivery.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to maintain brand consistency across various digital touchpoints.

• Be ready to articulate how you would approach integrating new tools and technologies, such as AI, into established workflows to improve efficiency and creativity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship role, the portfolio is less about extensive client work and more about demonstrating potential, a strong foundational understanding of design principles, and a proactive attitude towards learning new tools. For this specific role, showcasing any experimentation with AI in design will be a significant differentiator.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is an internship position, compensation will likely be aligned with Spanish internship standards and industry benchmarks for entry-level creative roles. A typical range for a 6-month full-time internship in Madrid for a Design role could be between €800 - €1,200 per month, potentially higher depending on specific experience and the company's internship program structure. Benefits:

• Hybrid Work Model: Offers flexibility with a balance between remote work and in-office presence (approximately 4 days in the office per week).

• Professional Growth & Development: Opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, work on impactful client projects, and gain exponential career growth within a leading global company.

• Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration: Exposure to diverse specialists and collaborative environments that foster learning and innovation.

• Dynamic Work Environment: A culture that encourages debate, innovation, and a hands-on approach to making things happen.

• No Dress Code: Freedom to express personal style and work comfortably.

• Potential for Permanent Role: The internship has the possibility of leading to an indefinite, full-time contract upon successful completion of the initial 6-month period.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, typically around 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on common internship compensation in Madrid for creative roles. The benefits highlight the opportunity for significant learning and career advancement, which are key attractors for internship positions in leading agencies. The potential for a permanent role is a strong incentive.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising & Marketing, Technology Consulting, Digital Transformation. The Cocktail is part of VML, a WPP company, a global leader in marketing and communications.

Company Size: VML is a large global agency network, with The Cocktail operating as a significant entity within Spain. WPP itself is one of the world's largest advertising and marketing groups. This scale offers extensive resources and diverse project opportunities.

Founded: The Cocktail was founded with a mission to accelerate sustainable growth for clients through design, data, and technology. VML was formed through the merger of Wunderman and Y&R, and WPP itself has a long history. The company culture emphasizes innovation, creativity, and a challenger mindset.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Creative team, specifically focusing on digital design and art direction for client campaigns.

• You will be part of a multidisciplinary team, working alongside specialists in Strategy, Design, Technology, Data, and Research.

• The team operates with a collaborative and agile approach, encouraging cross-functional interaction and knowledge sharing. Methodology:

• The Cocktail's methodology involves a blend of strategic thinking, design excellence, data-driven insights, and technological application to solve client challenges.

• Emphasis is placed on innovation, disruption, and a "better to ask for forgiveness than permission" mentality, encouraging ambitious and forward-thinking solutions.

• Workflows often involve close collaboration with clients and iterative feedback loops to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as dynamic, challenging, and innovative, with a strong emphasis on learning and professional growth. The multidisciplinary approach means exposure to various facets of digital marketing and technology. Being part of VML and WPP offers a global perspective and access to a vast network of expertise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position, specifically a "Beca" (internship) in Marketing Design. It's an excellent opportunity for individuals early in their careers to gain practical, hands-on experience in a professional creative environment.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Creative team, likely to a Creative Lead or Art Director, who will provide guidance and mentorship. Collaboration will extend across various departments.

Operations Impact: While this role is primarily focused on creative execution, the visual assets designed directly contribute to marketing campaign effectiveness, brand perception, and ultimately, client growth. The integration of AI tools also points towards an impact on optimizing creative workflows and potentially improving campaign performance through innovative visual strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in digital design, art direction, and potentially AI-driven creative processes.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain insights into UX/UI, SEO, Data Analysis, and Technology, broadening understanding of integrated marketing strategies.

• Client Interaction: Enhance communication and presentation skills through direct client engagement.

• Career Advancement: Successful completion of the internship may lead to a full-time position within The Cocktail/VML, offering a clear path for continued growth and development within the WPP network.

• Learning & Development: Access to internal training, workshops, and the opportunity to learn from a diverse team of specialists.

📝 Enhancement Note: The internship is positioned as a launchpad for a career in digital design and marketing. The emphasis on learning and potential for permanent employment is a significant draw for ambitious candidates. Exposure to AI in a practical setting is a key differentiator for future career development in the creative industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role involves a hybrid work model, with a significant emphasis on in-office presence (approximately 4 days a week) at their Madrid offices. This suggests a collaborative and interactive office environment conducive to teamwork and idea-sharing.

Office Location(s): Primarily based in Madrid, Spain. The specific office details would need to be confirmed, but Madrid is a major hub for creative agencies in Spain.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment is designed to foster interaction, innovation, and the exchange of ideas among team members from diverse disciplines.

• Technological Resources: Access to industry-standard design software and potentially emerging AI tools will be available.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to connect with colleagues, participate in brainstorming sessions, and contribute to a shared creative culture.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically around 40 hours per week. The hybrid model offers some flexibility in terms of location for part of the week, but a structured schedule is expected for collaboration and project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model with significant in-office days indicates a preference for collaborative work and team cohesion. Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic office setting in Madrid.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess foundational design skills, relevant experience, and interest in AI.

• Creative Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a design challenge or present a portfolio case study demonstrating their creative process, problem-solving abilities, and visual communication skills. This could involve designing a specific digital asset or conceptualizing a campaign.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion about experience, motivation, understanding of design principles, and fit with the company culture. Questions about how they approach learning new tools, including AI, will be crucial.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and suitability for the internship and potential future roles.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest digital design projects. Prioritize those that showcase your aesthetic sensibilities, understanding of digital formats, and any experimental work with AI.

• Demonstrate Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the problem you were solving, your creative process (ideation, sketching, tool usage, iteration), and the final outcome. Highlight any use of AI tools and the impact they had.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates proficiency in Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator. If you have experience with GIFs, HTML, or video, showcase it.

• Showcase Curiosity: Include any personal projects or experiments that reflect your interest in new trends, especially AI in design. This will be a key differentiator.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If given a design challenge, meticulously read and understand all requirements, target audience, and objectives.

• Focus on AI Integration: Think about how you could leverage AI tools to enhance efficiency or creativity within the challenge parameters. Be ready to explain your rationale.

• Brand Alignment: Practice designing within specific brand guidelines, as this is a core responsibility.

• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively to ensure you can deliver a polished response within the given timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical design skills and the candidate's enthusiasm for AI and innovation. A strong, well-presented portfolio that highlights creative problem-solving and a willingness to experiment with new technologies will be critical for success in this internship application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma (core for collaborative design and prototyping), Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator.

• AI in Design: Candidates are expected to be curious about and willing to explore tools like Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, Adobe Firefly, or other AI-powered platforms for concept generation, asset creation, and asset manipulation.

• Digital Formats: Familiarity with tools or workflows for creating and exporting HTML5 banners, GIFs, and basic video formats.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this design role, understanding how visual assets perform (e.g., through basic analytics or client feedback) is beneficial. Familiarity with reporting dashboards is a plus but not explicitly required. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around industry-standard design software. The explicit mention of AI tools suggests that familiarity or a strong willingness to learn these is a key differentiator. Experience with various digital asset formats is also important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Disruption: A culture that encourages challenging the status quo and exploring new ideas ("better to ask for forgiveness than permission").

• Creativity & Design Excellence: A commitment to high-quality visual design and impactful creative solutions.

• Collaboration & Diversity: Valuing diverse perspectives and fostering teamwork across different specializations.

• Agility & Proactivity: A "making things happen" attitude, with initiative and speed in execution.

• Continuous Learning: An environment that supports professional growth and the adoption of new technologies and trends, such as AI.

Collaboration Style:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Encourages close collaboration between design, strategy, technology, and data teams to create holistic solutions.

• Client-Centric: Working closely with clients to understand their needs and incorporate their feedback throughout the creative process.

• Open Communication: Fosters an environment where ideas can be shared freely, and constructive feedback is welcomed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values proactivity, innovation, and a collaborative spirit. Candidates who are eager to learn, contribute actively, and embrace new technologies like AI will likely thrive in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape: Staying current with the fast-paced advancements in AI tools for design and effectively integrating them into workflows.

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Constraints: Designing innovative visuals that are also strictly aligned with diverse client brand identities and marketing objectives.

• Adapting to Multiple Formats: Quickly mastering the technical specifications and best practices for various digital outputs (banners, emails, social media, GIFs, video).

• Client Feedback Integration: Effectively incorporating client feedback while maintaining creative integrity and project goals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI in Design Workshops: Potential for specialized training on AI tools and their application in creative processes.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced Art Directors and Creative Leads within The Cocktail.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Learning about other areas of digital marketing and technology through collaboration.

• Portfolio Building: Opportunity to work on real client projects, significantly enhancing your professional portfolio.

• Potential Full-Time Conversion: A direct pathway to a career in a leading global agency network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge and opportunity lie in mastering and leveraging AI tools within a professional design context. This role offers a unique chance to be at the forefront of AI adoption in creative agencies.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How do you approach generating creative concepts for a new digital campaign?" (Be prepared to discuss your process, including any AI tools you might use.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt a design for multiple digital platforms. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?"

• "How do you ensure your designs align with a client's brand identity while still being innovative?"

• "What are your thoughts on the role of Artificial Intelligence in the future of design? How do you see yourself using AI in this role?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in The Cocktail and VML?" (Research their recent work, values, and mission.)

• "What does a 'challenger mindset' mean to you in a creative agency context?"

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?"

• "Describe your ideal team environment for creative collaboration." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, narrate the journey from brief to completion, highlighting your thought process, challenges, and solutions.

• Emphasize AI Usage: If you've used AI tools, clearly explain how and why you used them, and what the outcome was. Be ready to discuss the benefits and limitations you observed.

• Showcase Technical Versatility: Briefly explain your process for adapting designs for different formats (e.g., banner sizes, social media specs).

• Focus on Impact: Even for an internship, try to articulate the intended or actual impact of your designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect questions that probe your understanding of design principles, your creative process, your ability to collaborate, and especially your enthusiasm and approach to using AI in design. Be ready to speak knowledgeably about current AI trends in the creative industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Marketing Designer internship:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your design education, any relevant internships or projects, proficiency in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and any experience or expressed interest in AI tools. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest digital design work, ensuring it demonstrates aesthetic sensibility, attention to detail, and ideally, any exploration with AI in design. Clearly articulate your process for each project.

• Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Express your passion for digital design, your interest in marketing and art direction, and specifically mention your curiosity and willingness to explore AI applications in creativity. Explain why you are drawn to The Cocktail and VML.

• Prepare for the Interview: Practice articulating your design process, discussing your portfolio, and answering questions about your interest in AI and your career aspirations. Research The Cocktail's recent projects and culture.

⚠️ 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.