Design Director - Branding & Packaging (India Remote)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director - Branding & Packaging (India Remote)

Company: Landor

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Design Operations / Brand Strategy

Date Posted: May 20, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in office, 1 day remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and inspire high-performing design teams to deliver impactful branding and packaging solutions aligned with client business objectives.

• Shape and champion the creative vision for branding and packaging projects, ensuring strategic rigor and innovative execution.

• Drive end-to-end project delivery, from concept development to final execution, maintaining exceptional quality and client satisfaction.

• Mentor and develop design talent, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment within the studio.

• Partner closely with clients and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution and transformative outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "Design Director" and focuses on creative output, its emphasis on strategy-driven work, client partnerships, and project delivery positions it within the broader GTM (Go-To-Market) and brand operations ecosystem. Successful candidates will bridge creative excellence with operational efficiency and strategic brand management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire multidisciplinary design teams, including branding and packaging specialists, to develop and execute high-impact creative work.

• Collaborate with Creative Directors and senior leadership to define and evolve the creative vision, driving innovation in branding and packaging strategies.

• Provide strategic guidance and constructive critique on creative concepts, ensuring alignment with client briefs, brand strategy, and market differentiation.

• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of branding and packaging projects, managing timelines, resources, and quality control to meet and exceed client expectations.

• Mentor and develop junior designers and creative professionals, fostering their growth in areas such as branding principles, packaging design techniques, and client interaction.

• Partner closely with client service, strategy, and other internal teams to ensure integrated and impactful project outcomes.

• Stay abreast of the latest design trends, technological advancements, and industry best practices in branding and packaging.

• Cultivate strong relationships with clients, understanding their business challenges and translating them into compelling brand and packaging solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative leadership and project management crucial for GTM and brand operations. The emphasis on "strategy-driven creative work" and "alignment with briefs and competitive differentiation" points to a need for understanding market dynamics and translating business goals into tangible brand assets.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in branding and packaging design, with a significant portion spent in leadership or directorial roles within a design agency or studio.

Required Skills:

• Creative Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and mentor design teams, fostering a culture of creativity and excellence.

• Branding & Packaging Expertise: Deep understanding of branding principles, visual identity development, and packaging design strategies across various industries.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to translate client business objectives and market insights into effective brand and packaging solutions.

• Project Management: Strong project oversight skills, managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery, and maintaining high-quality standards.

• Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency: Advanced technical proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Acrobat.

• Client Relationship Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

• Trend Awareness: Up-to-date knowledge of current design trends, industry best practices, and emerging technologies in branding and packaging.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D visualization tools for packaging mockups.

• Familiarity with brand governance and asset management principles.

• Experience working within a global agency network (e.g., WPP).

• Understanding of sonic branding or motion design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for advanced Adobe Creative Suite proficiency and a strong understanding of design trends is standard for creative roles. However, the emphasis on "strategy-driven" work and "client relationship management" elevates this beyond a purely creative role, requiring an operations-minded individual who can manage the execution and strategic alignment of creative output.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 comprehensive branding and packaging case studies demonstrating end-to-end project lifecycle management.

• Each case study should clearly articulate the client's challenge, the strategic approach, the creative solution, and the measurable impact or outcome.

• Highlight examples of leading cross-functional design teams and managing project timelines and budgets.

• Include visual examples of branding systems and packaging designs that showcase strategic thinking and creative execution.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of established processes for concept development, design iteration, and client feedback integration within the branding and packaging workflow.

• Examples of how you have implemented or improved design workflows to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and quality.

• Documentation demonstrating oversight of project milestones, resource allocation, and delivery schedules for branding and packaging projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Director-level role in a creative agency, a portfolio is paramount. The emphasis here is not just on the final designs but on the strategic thinking, process, and leadership demonstrated in bringing those designs to life. This aligns with operations roles, where process and methodology are key to successful execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Retirement savings plan or provident fund contributions.

• Professional development opportunities, including workshops, training, and conference attendance.

• Opportunities for international collaboration and potential travel within the WPP network.

• Hybrid work model with flexibility for remote work.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are approximately 40 hours per week.

• The role operates on a hybrid model, requiring approximately 4 days per week in the Mumbai office, with the remaining day(s) available for remote work. Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and individual circumstances, subject to discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate for a senior creative director role in Mumbai, India, considering the cost of living and industry standards. Benefits are typical for a large, global organization like WPP. The hybrid work model is clearly defined.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising & Marketing Services / Brand Consulting. Landor is a world-leading brand consultancy, part of the WPP network, specializing in making brands more valuable and less vulnerable through strategic design and creative capabilities.

Company Size: Part of WPP, a global network with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. The specific Landor studio in Mumbai likely operates with a significant but focused team size, enabling both global reach and local agility.

Founded: Landor was founded in 1941. This long history signifies deep expertise and established methodologies in brand building.

Team Structure:

• The Design Director will lead and collaborate within a Global Design Studio structure.

• This likely involves direct reports of junior and mid-level designers, as well as close partnerships with Creative Directors, Strategists, Account Managers, and other specialists within Landor and potentially other WPP agencies (e.g., amp, bdg, Deep Local, ManvsMachine).

Methodology:

• Landor emphasizes a strategic approach, connecting brand work to business outcomes.

• They utilize a blend of design, experience, governance, and measurement capabilities.

• The company values making brands "more valuable and less vulnerable" through strategic brand building.

• They foster a collaborative environment, integrating various specialized capabilities within their network to deliver transformative solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Landor's position within WPP and its specific methodology is key. The company culture likely values strategic thinking, creative excellence, and collaborative problem-solving, which are critical for operations and GTM functions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the creative and brand strategy domain. It's a directorial level, signifying significant responsibility for team management, project execution, and client-facing strategy. While not a traditional "operations" role, the management of creative processes, client engagements, and team performance aligns with operational excellence.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director will report to higher creative leadership (e.g., Executive Creative Director) and will manage a team of designers. They will also work closely with client service and strategy teams, requiring strong cross-functional collaboration.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant. By leading the creative direction and execution of branding and packaging, the Design Director directly influences how clients' brands are perceived in the market. This has a direct bearing on brand equity, market share, and ultimately, revenue growth, aligning with the core objectives of GTM and revenue operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Group Creative Director or Executive Creative Director roles, overseeing larger teams and broader creative portfolios.

• Strategic Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific sectors or types of brand challenges (e.g., global brand rollouts, digital brand experiences).

• Network Mobility: Opportunities to transfer or collaborate with other Landor studios or WPP agencies globally, gaining exposure to diverse markets and projects.

• Mentorship & Talent Development: Continued growth through developing and nurturing talent, a key leadership competency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is creative, its growth trajectory and impact are deeply intertwined with operational success. The emphasis on managing teams, projects, and client relationships provides a clear path for career progression within a strategic and operational framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work. The office environment is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and connection.

Office Location(s): The primary office location for this role is Mumbai, India. Specific details about the office amenities and collaborative spaces would be available upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is expected to facilitate brainstorming, team meetings, and client presentations, encouraging interaction among design teams, strategists, and account personnel.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software and hardware, as well as potentially advanced visualization tools, will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for face-to-face collaboration with direct reports and cross-functional teams, essential for creative synergy and efficient project execution.

Work Schedule: The hybrid model requires approximately 4 days in the office per week. The remaining time is remote. This structure aims to balance focused individual work with team collaboration and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of the work environment, balancing individual productivity with collaborative needs. This requires strong self-management and communication skills, similar to remote operations roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess experience, qualifications, and creative output.

• Portfolio Presentation: A detailed presentation of selected case studies from the portfolio, discussing strategic approach, creative process, team leadership, and project outcomes.

• Creative/Strategic Discussion: In-depth conversations about creative vision, leadership philosophy, trend awareness, and problem-solving approaches.

• Team & Client Simulation: Potentially a scenario-based exercise or discussion about how you would handle specific client challenges or team dynamics.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of alignment with Landor's values, WPP's culture, and the team's working style.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select case studies that best showcase your leadership, strategic thinking, and end-to-end project management in branding and packaging.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your strategic solution, the creative process, your role in leading the team, and the tangible results or impact.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your experience in mentoring, guiding, and inspiring design teams.

• Showcase Process: Detail your workflow, how you manage feedback, and how you ensure quality and consistency.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use data or client testimonials to demonstrate the success and business value of your work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss current branding and packaging trends.

• Think about how you would approach a hypothetical client brief for a new brand launch or packaging redesign.

• Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you foster collaboration and innovation within a team.

• Articulate your understanding of Landor's methodology and how you would contribute to their mission of making brands more valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and case study presentation is critical. This is where candidates demonstrate their strategic thinking, process management, and ability to deliver tangible results, mirroring the expectations for operations roles that require demonstrating impact through data and process improvements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency required in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Acrobat for design creation, manipulation, and finalization.

• Presentation Software: Tools like PowerPoint, Keynote, or Google Slides for creating and delivering client presentations and internal proposals.

• Collaboration Tools: Familiarity with platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for internal communication and project coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems is not explicitly mentioned but understanding client management and project tracking processes is crucial. Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Wrike) is highly advantageous for workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is advanced Adobe Creative Suite. However, for a Director role, proficiency in presentation tools and collaboration platforms is essential for effective GTM and operations. Understanding client management and project tracking is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, strategy-driven creative work that meets client objectives and sets industry benchmarks.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering a team environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-functional collaboration is seamless, ensuring integrated solutions.

• Strategic Impact: A focus on ensuring that all creative output is directly tied to business outcomes and client growth objectives.

• Innovation & Evolution: A continuous drive to explore new ideas, technologies, and approaches in branding and packaging design to stay ahead of trends.

• Mentorship & Development: A dedication to nurturing talent and supporting the professional growth of team members.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires working closely with strategists, account managers, and potentially other specialists across Landor and WPP.

• Constructive Critique: A culture of providing and receiving feedback openly to refine creative concepts and ensure strategic alignment.

• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing client needs and building strong, trust-based relationships based on understanding and delivering value.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize strategic thinking, collaboration, and a results-oriented approach, which are fundamental to successful operations and GTM functions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Demands: Ensuring that innovative creative solutions align with client budgets, timelines, and strategic requirements.

• Managing Diverse Creative Teams: Inspiring and guiding designers with varying skill sets and personalities towards a unified creative vision.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously adapting to rapidly evolving design trends, technologies, and consumer behaviors in branding and packaging.

• Driving Measurable Impact: Demonstrating the tangible business value and ROI of creative strategies and executions to clients.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Global Exposure: Opportunities to work on international projects and collaborate with diverse teams within the WPP network.

• Advanced Skill Development: Access to workshops, training programs, and industry conferences focused on cutting-edge design techniques, branding strategy, and leadership.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal mentorship opportunities with senior leaders within Landor and WPP.

• Leadership Training: Development programs focused on enhancing leadership, strategic thinking, and business acumen.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in senior creative leadership roles and require strong operational and strategic management skills to navigate effectively. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement within a global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How do you approach translating a client's business problem into a compelling brand or packaging strategy?" (Prepare to discuss your strategic framework and process.)

• "Describe a time you led a team through a challenging creative project with tight deadlines. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and project management.)

• "How do you stay current with design trends, and how do you decide which trends are relevant to incorporate into client work?" (Demonstrate your awareness and strategic filtering.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Landor and WPP, and how do you see your role contributing to our mission?" (Research Landor's work, values, and WPP's mission.)

• "How do you foster collaboration within a hybrid work environment?" (Discuss strategies for effective communication and teamwork.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your strategic input, the creative solution, your leadership role, and the impact.

• Focus on Process: Explain your design process, how you managed feedback, and how you ensured quality and consistency.

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase how you guided and inspired your team.

• Quantify Results: Where possible, use metrics or client testimonials to demonstrate success.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well and stays within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role requires a strong blend of creative articulation and strategic/operational thinking. Candidates must be ready to discuss not just "what" they designed, but "how" they led the process and achieved business objectives.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Greenhouse platform.

• Curate and Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 strong branding and packaging case studies that highlight your leadership, strategic thinking, and end-to-end project management skills. Ensure each case study clearly outlines the challenge, your strategic approach, the creative solution, and the impact.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of experience, leadership roles, expertise in branding and packaging, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any experience managing cross-functional teams or client relationships. Use keywords from the job description.

• Practice Your Portfolio Presentation: Rehearse presenting your case studies, focusing on storytelling, process, leadership, and quantifiable results. Be prepared to discuss your creative philosophy and approach to mentoring.

• Research Landor and WPP: Understand their recent work, company values, and approach to brand strategy. Prepare to articulate how your skills and experience align with their mission and culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides a comprehensive overview and AI-generated insights based on industry standards. Specific requirements, interview processes, and compensation details should be confirmed directly with Landor during the application and interview stages.