CBS - BMC - Creative Services - Associate-Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate - Graphic Designer

Company: EY

Location: Trivandrum, Kerala, India & Kochi, Kerala, India

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative Services / Visual Design

Date Posted: 2026-06-08

Experience Level: 1-4 years (Associate level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is within EY's Global Delivery Services (GDS) Creative Center of Excellence (CoE), focusing on delivering high-impact, on-brand creative solutions.

• The Associate Graphic Designer will ideate and execute visual assets for proposals, presentations, marketing collateral, and digital media, ensuring strategic precision and creative inspiration.

• Responsibilities include collaborating with workflow coordinators and art directors to translate creative concepts into effective collaterals across various platforms, primarily MS-based applications, print, and interactive formats.

• The position requires a strong understanding of design principles, a refined aesthetic sense, and the ability to work within brand guidelines while pushing creative boundaries.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the context of "Creative Services - Associate-Graphic Designer" within EY's GDS CoE suggests a role focused on supporting business and client-facing materials rather than pure brand marketing. The emphasis on "proposals, illustrations, layouts and enhanced user experiences" points towards a need for operational efficiency in design delivery, aligning it with GTM support functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop a wide range of branding and marketing materials, including brochures, placemats, illustrations, infographics, on-screen presentations, proposals, and social media collaterals.

• Ensure all creative output strictly adheres to EY brand guidelines while meeting and exceeding expectations for aesthetics, quality, and turnaround time.

• Proactively stay updated on the latest design trends and effectively socialize these insights with peers and teams.

• Manage and prioritize multiple creative projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met and deliverables are produced efficiently.

• Engage effectively with internal clients (stakeholders) to understand design briefs, communicate creative ideas, and provide unique, innovative design solutions.

• Act as a responsive and proactive point of contact for clients via calls and emails, fostering positive working relationships.

• Contribute actively to various organizational initiatives and team projects, demonstrating a collaborative and supportive attitude.

• Translate verbal ideas and concepts into impactful, cohesive visual outputs that align with business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize client interaction and project delivery within a structured corporate environment. This suggests a need for strong project management skills and the ability to manage client expectations, which are critical in GTM support functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or college diploma, preferably in Graphic Design or a related discipline. Experience:

• 1-4 years of relevant professional experience in graphic design. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, and Excel for business document creation and presentation design.

• Advanced skills in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign for creating professional visual assets.

• Expertise in Adobe Document Cloud, particularly for interactive media and document management.

• A strong visual design capability with a keen eye for aesthetics and detail.

• Flawless typography skills and a strong sense of balance and intuition in layout design.

• Excellent communication (comprehension, verbal, and written) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively persuade and collaborate.

• Exceptional attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality in all design outputs.

• Ability to interact effectively and positively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro for motion graphics and video editing.

• Experience with motion graphics design.

• Experience working with global clients and understanding diverse client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific software requirements (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Document Cloud) are critical for operations roles that support sales and marketing. Proficiency in these tools directly impacts the speed and quality of collateral creation, which is vital for GTM functions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of design projects, including proposals, presentations (MS PowerPoint), brochures, infographics, and social media collaterals.

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of branding principles, specifically adhering to corporate brand guidelines (e.g., EY brand guidelines).

• Highlight projects that exhibit a user-centric mindset, creative problem-solving, and innovative design solutions.

• Include examples that effectively translate complex information or verbal briefs into clear, impactful visual narratives.

• Projects should reflect exceptional attention to detail, flawless typography, and a sophisticated sense of balance and layout. Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated, candidates are expected to demonstrate an ability to work within defined workflow processes, adhering to turnaround times and quality standards.

• The ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects concurrently implies familiarity with project management workflows and efficient task management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role supporting GTM and corporate functions, a portfolio is paramount. It serves as proof of creative capability, technical proficiency, and understanding of business communication needs. The emphasis on process implies that candidates should be able to articulate how they manage their design workflow efficiently.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the Associate level (1-4 years experience) and the locations (Trivandrum and Kochi, India), a competitive salary range would typically fall between ₹4,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for graphic designers with similar experience in Tier 2 Indian cities, considering EY's positioning as a large professional services firm. Benefits:

• Continuous learning opportunities and development programs.

• Tools and flexibility to support work-life balance and meaningful impact.

• Transformative leadership development and coaching.

• Diverse and inclusive workplace culture, embracing individual uniqueness.

• Access to a global network of professionals and cross-functional teams.

• Potential for exposure to high-profile projects and well-known brands. Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges for India are based on market data for similar roles and experience levels in the specified regions. Benefits are drawn directly from the "What we offer" section of the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services (Consulting, Assurance, Tax, Strategy, Transactions)

Company Size: EY is a global leader with over 300,000 employees worldwide, indicating a large, established, and resource-rich organizational structure.

Founded: 1989 (as Ernst & Young), with a long history of providing professional services.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the EY GDS Creative Center of Excellence (CoE), an in-house agency.

• This team likely comprises various creative professionals, including art directors, designers, content specialists, and workflow coordinators.

• Collaboration is expected with internal EY teams across different service lines and geographies.

• Reporting structure likely involves a direct manager within the CoE, with oversight from senior creative leadership. Methodology:

• Design solutions are expected to be strategically precise, creatively inspiring, and deeply human, aligning with business objectives and EY brand standards.

• A blend of creative ideation and tactical execution is required, utilizing various media platforms.

• Emphasis on data-driven insights and technology (as mentioned in the broader EY context) likely influences creative approaches and efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: EY's global presence and commitment to "Building a better working world" implies a culture that values innovation, client service, and professional development. The GDS CoE specifically focuses on operationalizing creativity for business impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Associate Graphic Designer (entry to mid-level, 1-4 years of experience). This role is foundational within the Creative CoE, focusing on execution and contributing to larger creative projects.

Reporting Structure: The Associate Graphic Designer will report to a manager or lead within the Creative Center of Excellence. They will likely work closely with Art Directors and Workflow Coordinators on a day-to-day basis.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the quality and effectiveness of client-facing materials, proposals, and internal communications. High-quality design can enhance client perception, improve proposal win rates, and strengthen EY's brand image, thus contributing indirectly to revenue generation and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in core design software (Adobe Suite) and potentially expand into motion graphics, interactive design, or specialized areas like proposal design.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, or specialized roles within the Creative CoE or other EY departments.

• Leadership Potential: Developing strong client relationship skills and project management capabilities can pave the way for team lead or supervisory roles.

• Learning & Development: Access to EY's extensive learning resources, training programs, and mentorship opportunities to foster continuous professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Associate" title and experience requirement indicate a focus on skill development and execution. Growth hinges on mastering core competencies and demonstrating potential for greater responsibility and client management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site role, implying a traditional office setting within EY's facilities in Trivandrum or Kochi.

Office Location(s): Trivandrum, Kerala, India & Kochi, Kerala, India. These are major cities in India, suggesting access to modern office infrastructure and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is likely collaborative, with designers working in proximity to art directors, content specialists, and project managers.

• Access to standard office technology, including high-performance computers, design software, and potentially collaborative platforms.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with colleagues, fostering knowledge sharing and team-based problem-solving.

• The "Creative Center of Excellence" suggests an environment that encourages creativity while maintaining operational efficiency.

Work Schedule: The standard is likely 40 hours per week, but the nature of creative services and client demands may necessitate occasional flexibility or extended hours to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement means candidates should be prepared for a structured office environment and regular team collaboration, which is typical for many operations support functions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and design aesthetic.

• Technical Assessment: Potentially a design test or challenge to evaluate proficiency in required software and design skills under timed conditions.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions focused on problem-solving, teamwork, client interaction, managing deadlines, and adapting to feedback.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where the candidate presents their portfolio, discusses their design process, and explains the rationale behind their project choices.

• Final Interview: May involve discussion with senior leadership or hiring managers to assess cultural fit and overall suitability for the role and EY's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills relevant to the job description (presentations, proposals, brochures, infographics).

• Highlight Process: For each project, explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, challenges faced, and the final outcome. Emphasize how you met the client's objectives.

• Demonstrate Brand Adherence: Include at least one project that shows your ability to work within strict brand guidelines.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate proficiency across different types of collateral (print, digital, presentations).

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If a project led to measurable success (e.g., improved engagement, positive client feedback), highlight it.

• Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio digitally, articulating your design choices clearly and concisely.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a practical design exercise. Focus on understanding the brief quickly, planning your approach, and executing efficiently within the given timeframe.

• Practice creating presentations or infographics quickly using PowerPoint and Adobe tools.

• Be ready to articulate your design decisions and justify them based on best practices and the brief's requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a creative role supporting business operations, the portfolio is as crucial as the resume. Candidates must be prepared to demonstrate not just creative talent but also the ability to deliver within corporate structures and client needs.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and complex illustrations.
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, digital painting, and web graphics.
  • Adobe InDesign: For layout design of brochures, proposals, presentations, and print collateral.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Microsoft PowerPoint: Crucial for creating on-screen presentations, proposals, and animated decks.
  • Microsoft Word: For document formatting and integration with design elements.
  • Microsoft Excel: Potentially for data visualization or infographic creation.

• Adobe Document Cloud: For managing and creating interactive documents.

Analytics & Reporting: Not directly mentioned for this role, but understanding how designs perform might involve collaboration with teams using analytics tools.

CRM & Automation: Not directly mentioned. However, as part of a larger organization, integration with internal systems for project tracking or brief submission might exist.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of specific Adobe and Microsoft software is a key requirement. Proficiency in these tools is non-negotiable for this role and forms the core of the technical skill set.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Delivering high-quality, on-brand creative solutions that meet business objectives and client needs.

• Excellence & Quality: Adhering to brand guidelines and striving for aesthetically superior, error-free outputs.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Managing multiple projects effectively to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Innovation & Creativity: Bringing fresh ideas and pushing creative boundaries while staying strategically precise.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with internal teams, art directors, and clients.

• Continuous Improvement: Staying updated with design trends and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, working closely with workflow coordinators, art directors, content teams, and internal clients.

• Emphasis on clear communication, active listening, and persuasive articulation of design ideas.

• Open to feedback and constructive criticism to refine creative outputs.

• A "can-do" attitude and willingness to contribute to various team initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: EY's overarching values of integrity, respect, teaming, energy, and courage likely permeate the GDS Creative CoE. This role requires someone who embodies these values in their daily work and interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Constraints: Effectively delivering innovative designs while strictly adhering to EY's established brand guidelines.

• Managing Multiple Project Demands: Juggling various client requests with competing deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Translating Abstract Concepts: Understanding and visually representing complex business ideas or verbal briefs into clear, impactful designs.

• Client Communication & Persuasion: Effectively communicating design rationale and persuading stakeholders to adopt recommended visual approaches.

• Keeping Pace with Trends: Staying current with evolving design trends, software, and client expectations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Deepening expertise in Adobe Suite and exploring motion graphics tools (After Effects, Premiere Pro).

• Specialized Design Skills: Developing proficiency in specific areas like proposal design, infographic creation, or presentation design best practices.

• Client Management Skills: Learning to manage client relationships, understand business needs, and effectively present creative solutions.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience with a global professional services firm, understanding various business functions and client industries.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Art Directors and senior designers within the CoE.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the operational aspects of design—efficiency, client management, and execution within corporate frameworks—rather than purely artistic endeavors. Growth is tied to overcoming these challenges and expanding technical and soft skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design a complex proposal or presentation. What was your process, and how did you ensure it met the client's objectives?" (Focus on process, tools, and client alignment).

• "How do you balance creative innovation with strict brand guidelines? Provide an example." (Demonstrate understanding of brand adherence and creative problem-solving).

• "Imagine a stakeholder provides vague feedback on a design. How would you approach clarifying their needs and revising the work?" (Assess communication, problem-solving, and client management skills).

• "Discuss a project where you had to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously. How did you prioritize and ensure timely delivery?" (Evaluate project management and organizational skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for EY's Creative Center of Excellence?" (Show research into EY and the CoE's mission).

• "How do you stay updated on design trends, and how would you apply them within EY's brand framework?" (Demonstrate proactivity and brand awareness).

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative atmosphere." (Assess teamwork and cultural fit). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenges, your design process, the tools used, and the outcome.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out how your projects demonstrate proficiency in PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and typography/layout.

• Showcase Brand Adherence: Be ready to discuss projects where you successfully worked within specific brand guidelines.

• Be Concise and Confident: Present your work clearly and articulately, answering questions directly and professionally.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to explain design choices and software functionalities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also the operational discipline, problem-solving abilities, and client-centric approach required for a role supporting a large professional services firm.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the EY Careers portal via the provided job URL.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with corporate branding, proposal design, presentation creation (especially PowerPoint), and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X number of proposals leading to Y client wins," or "Improved efficiency of presentation design by Z%").

• Portfolio Preparation: Ensure your online or PDF portfolio is polished, easily accessible, and showcases relevant projects. Organize it logically, perhaps by project type (e.g., Presentations, Brochures, Infographics), and be ready to discuss your process and rationale for each piece.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to articulate your design process, problem-solving skills, and experience working in a team environment. Practice presenting your portfolio and answering behavioral questions related to deadlines, client feedback, and collaboration.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with EY's brand guidelines, its mission ("Building a better working world"), and the services offered by its GDS Creative CoE. Understand the values and culture of a global professional services firm.

⚠️ 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.