Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director

Company: Jellyfish

Location: Mexico City, Mexico

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Management & Leadership / Marketing

Date Posted: August 18, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Up to 60% remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and inspire a globally dispersed team of designers, fostering a collaborative environment focused on delivering high-quality creative content for globally recognized brands.

• Oversee the production and adaptation of diverse creative assets, including static graphics, motion graphics, digital content, and social media assets, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and project requirements.

• Leverage AI-driven tools, specifically mentioning Pencil Pro, to refine design workflows, optimize content adaptation, and enhance the overall efficiency of creative production processes.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including project managers and creative leads, to ensure a deep understanding of project briefs and the successful execution of creative strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is categorized under Creative & Media, Art & Design, Management & Leadership, and Marketing, reflecting the blend of creative direction, team management, and strategic application of design principles within a digital marketing context. The hybrid work arrangement specifies up to 60% remote work, indicating a structured approach to work-life balance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Inspire and guide a globally distributed design team, cultivating a strong sense of community and ensuring consistent delivery of exceptional creative output.

• Actively participate in project reviews, partnering with project teams to meticulously ensure all creative briefs are fully addressed and that the final output aligns precisely with client expectations and strategic objectives.

• Manage and direct the end-to-end production and localization of creative content across a variety of channels, guaranteeing that all static and motion graphics meet stringent brand guidelines and specific project requirements.

• Proactively utilize advanced AI design tools, such as Pencil Pro, to refine the design process, efficiently adapt content for diverse markets, and maintain the highest creative standards for both static and motion designs.

• Integrate Pencil Pro's advanced capabilities for rapid generation and iteration of design assets, empowering the team to significantly optimize workflows and accelerate the content adaptation process for global campaigns.

• Foster seamless collaboration with creative teams and project managers to ensure complete clarity on briefs and the successful, timely completion of all assigned tasks.

• Strategically create and adapt content for localization, ensuring assets are optimized for different regions and platforms (social media, digital) while rigorously preserving the core brand message and integrity.

• Confidently present innovative ideas and compelling design solutions to internal teams, VPs of Creative, and external clients, ensuring clarity, influence, and strategic alignment in all presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on team leadership, quality control, and the strategic implementation of AI tools for workflow optimization in content adaptation and localization. This is crucial for a Design Director role in a global digital marketing agency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While formal degrees are de-emphasized, a strong portfolio demonstrating equivalent expertise and practical application of design principles is essential.

Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive professional experience in a relevant design role, ideally within a dynamic agency or established brand environment.

Required Skills:

• Advanced English proficiency, critical for effective communication within a global team and with international clients.

• Proven expertise in leading and managing diverse design teams across multiple time zones, fostering collaboration and ensuring high performance.

• Deep understanding and practical application of design tools including Figma, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere Pro.

• In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with AI design tools, including best practice prompting methodology for effective content generation and iteration.

• Expertise in producing digital and social media assets, encompassing both static and motion graphics, tailored for global audiences.

• Thorough knowledge of social media and paid media design best practices to ensure maximum impact and engagement.

• Experience in adapting and localizing design solutions to effectively fit diverse international markets and maintain brand consistency. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in motion design and video editing, with a solid understanding of 3D animation tools such as Blender considered a significant advantage.

• Familiarity and practical experience with AI-driven tools like Pencil Pro for efficient content adaptation and optimization across various projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical skills and experience over traditional academic credentials, aligning with a modern approach to talent acquisition. The inclusion of specific AI tools like Pencil Pro and prompting methodology indicates a forward-thinking agency focused on leveraging emerging technologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of creative projects, with a strong emphasis on process optimization and workflow efficiency in design adaptation and localization.

• Demonstrations of how design solutions have been adapted and localized for diverse global markets, highlighting strategic thinking and cultural sensitivity.

• Examples of utilizing design tools and AI technologies to enhance creative output, speed up production, and improve overall project delivery.

• Case studies that clearly articulate your leadership approach in managing design teams and driving creative excellence. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of designing and implementing streamlined design workflows, particularly for content adaptation and localization processes.

• Documentation of how AI tools have been integrated to automate tasks, improve asset generation, and enhance team efficiency.

• Examples of process improvements that have led to measurable gains in speed, quality, or cost-effectiveness for creative production.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only displays creative output but also substantiates their ability to manage complex design processes, leverage technology for efficiency, and lead teams effectively in a global context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Director role with 7+ years of experience in Mexico City, Mexico, and considering the hybrid work model, a competitive annual salary range of approximately MXN 800,000 to MXN 1,200,000 is estimated. This range may vary based on specific skills, experience, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Savings Fund: 5% of monthly income contributed by the employee, matched by Jellyfish.

• Private Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including visual and dental plans.

• Custom Work Environment: Hybrid model allowing up to 60% remote work.

• Flexible Working Hours: Ability to shape the workday between 8 AM and 6:30 PM.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, with flexibility offered through a hybrid work model and adjustable daily schedules, likely around 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for similar roles in Mexico City and the specified experience level. The provided benefits highlight a focus on employee well-being and work-life balance, including a unique savings fund matching program and flexible working arrangements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Marketing Agency, with a strong emphasis on technology, creative services, and data-driven strategies.

Company Size: Jellyfish is a significant global agency, implying a structured yet dynamic work environment with ample opportunities for professional development and cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: Founded in 2000, Jellyfish has a long-standing history in the digital marketing space, suggesting a mature company with established processes and a deep understanding of the industry.

Team Structure:

• The Design Director will lead a "globally dispersed design team," indicating a distributed workforce across various time zones.

• This role reports to the Senior Design Director, suggesting a clear hierarchy within the creative department.

• Expect close collaboration with project managers, creative VPs, and potentially client-facing teams, emphasizing cross-functional teamwork. Methodology:

• A commitment to data-driven strategies and empowering clients through digital journeys.

• Emphasis on innovation, challenging the status quo, and reinventing media activation.

• Integration of AI tools like Pencil Pro into workflows to enhance efficiency and creative output.

• A culture that values diverse perspectives and individual contributions to drive better solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Jellyfish positions itself as a fusion of tech, creative, and data expertise, aiming to empower clients. The company's long history and global presence suggest a professional environment with opportunities for significant impact and growth. The explicit mention of AI tools indicates a forward-thinking approach to operations and creative delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the creative operations function, responsible for managing a significant team and influencing creative strategy and execution on a global scale. It bridges creative direction with operational efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director reports to the Senior Design Director, indicating a clear line of management within the creative department. This structure provides mentorship and oversight from a more experienced leader.

Operations Impact: The Design Director's role is critical in ensuring that creative output directly supports client growth objectives and brand messaging. By optimizing production workflows, leading design adaptation, and maintaining high creative standards, this role directly impacts client satisfaction, campaign effectiveness, and ultimately, Jellyfish's revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Design Director or similar leadership roles within Jellyfish's global creative structure.

• Opportunities to specialize in emerging areas of digital design, AI integration, or creative strategy leadership.

• Potential to influence the broader adoption of new technologies and methodologies across the agency's creative operations.

• Development in client-facing communication and strategic presentation skills at executive levels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for career progression within a global agency, with a clear path for leadership development and the chance to shape the future of creative operations through AI integration and strategic direction.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company operates a hybrid model, allowing employees to work remotely up to 60% of the time. This suggests a modern office setup designed for collaboration and focused work when in person, complemented by robust remote work infrastructure.

Office Location(s): While the role is based in Mexico City, the team is globally dispersed. This implies a distributed work environment where in-person collaboration in the Mexico City office might be focused on specific team meetings or collaborative sessions.

Workspace Context:

• A blend of remote and in-office work, offering flexibility and the opportunity to tailor the work environment.

• Access to advanced design tools and potentially AI-powered creative platforms.

• Opportunities for collaboration with a diverse, international team, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.

• A professional agency setting that values innovation and creative problem-solving.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours are offered, with employees able to shape their day between 8 AM and 6:30 PM, accommodating different time zones and personal needs while ensuring core business hours are covered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid and flexible work environment is a key feature, catering to modern workforce expectations. The emphasis on a globally dispersed team means that remote collaboration tools and asynchronous communication practices are likely well-established.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, skills, and cultural fit. Be prepared to highlight specific achievements in team leadership, creative adaptation, and AI tool utilization.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the Senior Design Director to delve deeper into your leadership style, strategic thinking, and experience with global brands and AI tools.

• Team/Peer Interview: Potential interviews with other design leads or team members to evaluate collaboration style and team dynamics.

• Creative/Case Study Challenge: You may be asked to present a portfolio review or a specific case study demonstrating your approach to a complex design adaptation or workflow optimization challenge, possibly involving AI tools.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a VP of Creative or senior leadership to discuss strategic vision and alignment with Jellyfish's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate a selection of projects that best represent your leadership, creative direction, and experience with content adaptation for global markets.

• For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (especially any AI integration), and the measurable outcomes.

• Be ready to discuss your process for leading and motivating a dispersed team and how you ensure creative quality and brand consistency.

• Showcase your proficiency with key design software and your understanding of AI prompting methodologies. Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare examples of how you've successfully adapted creative assets for different regions or platforms, highlighting the strategic considerations.

• Think about how you would integrate AI tools like Pencil Pro to solve specific production bottlenecks or enhance creative iterations.

• Be ready to discuss your approach to managing creative feedback and delivering solutions that meet client expectations under tight deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only creative talent but also leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and adaptability to new technologies like AI within a global operations context. A strong, well-documented portfolio is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Figma, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Premiere Pro. Expertise in these is a mandatory requirement.

• AI Design Tools: Pencil Pro (specifically mentioned for content adaptation and workflow refinement), and a strong understanding of AI design tools and best practice prompting methodology.

• 3D Animation (Bonus): Proficiency in tools like Blender is considered a plus, indicating potential for more advanced creative work.

Analytics & Reporting: While not explicitly listed as primary tools for this role, a Design Director would likely interact with analytics dashboards and reporting tools to understand campaign performance and inform design decisions. This could include tools for social media analytics or digital campaign performance tracking.

CRM & Automation: Not directly specified for this role, but understanding how creative assets integrate into broader marketing automation platforms and CRM systems would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific design software and the explicit mention of AI tools like Pencil Pro highlight Jellyfish's commitment to leveraging technology for creative production and efficiency. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in these core tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Adaptability: A strong drive to challenge the status quo, embrace new technologies like AI, and continuously adapt creative processes.

• Collaboration & Community: Fostering a sense of community within a globally dispersed team, encouraging knowledge sharing and mutual support.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, compelling creative content that meets rigorous brand standards and client expectations.

• Diversity & Inclusion: Valuing individual differences and empowering every employee to reach their full potential, driving innovation through diverse perspectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with project managers, creative VPs, and client teams to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.

• Global Teamwork: Effective communication and collaboration across different time zones and cultural backgrounds, leveraging remote work tools and practices.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: Openness to feedback and a culture of continuous improvement in both creative output and operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Jellyfish's culture appears to be a blend of innovative ambition, a strong focus on people and inclusion, and a commitment to operational excellence through technology and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing a Globally Dispersed Team: Effectively leading and motivating designers across multiple time zones, ensuring consistent quality and communication.

• Integrating AI Tools Seamlessly: Successfully embedding AI tools like Pencil Pro into existing workflows to enhance efficiency without compromising creative integrity or quality.

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Demands: Ensuring that creative output is both innovative and strategically aligned with client objectives and brand guidelines.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: Continuously evolving design approaches and leveraging new technologies to maintain a competitive edge for clients.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Gaining expertise in AI-driven design workflows and advanced prompting techniques.

• Developing leadership skills in managing international creative teams and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.

• Opportunities to contribute to strategic creative planning for major global brands.

• Potential to influence agency-wide adoption of new creative technologies and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex leadership and technological integration challenges within a dynamic global agency environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience leading a globally dispersed design team. What strategies do you employ to ensure alignment, motivation, and quality across different time zones?" (Focus on communication, team building, and process management.)

• "How have you integrated AI tools, such as Pencil Pro, into design workflows to improve efficiency or creative output? Provide a specific example of a challenge solved using AI." (Highlight practical application and understanding of prompting.)

• "Walk us through a complex content adaptation project you directed. What were the key challenges, how did you ensure brand consistency across markets, and what was the outcome?" (Emphasize strategic adaptation and problem-solving.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Jellyfish's approach to digital marketing, particularly its fusion of tech, creative, and data?" (Show research and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and diversity within a creative team?" (Connect to Jellyfish's stated values.)

• "How do you measure the impact of design work on business objectives for clients?" (Demonstrate a results-oriented mindset.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically: Introduction, Project Overview, Your Role & Challenges, Solution & Process (highlighting AI use), Results & Impact, Key Learnings.

• Be prepared to discuss the "why" behind your design decisions and how they align with strategic goals.

• Practice your delivery to ensure clarity, conciseness, and confidence, especially when discussing technical aspects like AI prompting or specific software functionalities.

• Be ready to engage in a dialogue, answering questions thoughtfully and demonstrating your thought process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, strategic thinking, technical proficiency with design and AI tools, and a strong understanding of client-centric creative operations in a global context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Ashby application link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to clearly highlight your 7+ years of experience in design leadership, specifically mentioning your expertise in global brand adaptation, team management across time zones, and proficiency with required design software (Figma, Adobe Suite) and AI tools (Pencil Pro, prompting methodology). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Portfolio Curation: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your leadership, creative direction, content adaptation skills, and experience with AI tools. Ensure each project clearly outlines the brief, your role, challenges, solutions, and measurable outcomes.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with the strategy and company/culture questions outlined above. Be ready to present your portfolio confidently and discuss your approach to creative operations and team leadership.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Jellyfish's work, client roster, and company values to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment during the interview process. Understand their approach to digital marketing and 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.