Design Director, Packaging

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director, Packaging

Company: Trinchero Family Estates

Location: Napa, California

Job Type: Regular Full-Time Exempt

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-02

Experience Level: 6+ Years

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

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads the end-to-end ideation, design, and delivery of on-brief packaging concepts for luxury Wine and Spirits brands.

• Operates with minimal supervision, applying a discerning eye for detail and an uncompromising standard of craft.

• Acts as a category expert, fluent in all packaging components (labels, capsules, closures, shippers) and influences stakeholders with strategic points of view.

• Translates brand equity and visual storytelling into compelling packaging that drives shelf visibility and retail performance.

• Balances refined design sensibility with pragmatic retail realities in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Director," has significant operational components related to project management, production oversight, and cross-functional stakeholder alignment, aligning it with creative operations and marketing operations functions within a GTM strategy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Review project briefs and collaborate with the Creative Director to define design direction and deliverables.

• Ideate, design, and produce agency-caliber creative work for luxury wine and spirits packaging.

• Curate and retouch imagery to ensure adherence to brand-specific aesthetic standards.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of design tools, technologies, and relevant market/category trends.

• Partner closely with the packaging production team to oversee the implementation and final execution of packaging mechanicals.

• Conduct meticulous proofing of artwork, focusing on typography, color accuracy, print specifications, client requirements, and overall consistency.

• Attend press checks to verify that output meets established company production standards.

• Meet directly with brand managers to discuss inks and finishes, providing immediate alternative solutions as needed.

• Prepare and set up client-facing presentations, printouts, and collateral materials.

• Work cross-functionally with various departments to gather requirements, align on design direction, and secure necessary sign-offs.

• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality execution.

• Contribute to the development of new ideas and strategic viewpoints to enhance brand equity and market performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative leadership and project execution, requiring strong operational management skills to drive packaging projects from concept to shelf. The mention of "minimal supervision" and "end-to-end ownership" points to a senior-level operational responsibility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• BFA or MFA in Graphic Design, or equivalent professional experience. Experience:

• 6+ years of professional experience with a strong emphasis on package design.

• Agency and CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) experience is strongly preferred. Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).

• Expert-level understanding of brand development, visual systems, and line extensions.

• Advanced knowledge of print production processes and press practices.

• Mastery of design fundamentals: typography, composition, color, and layout.

• Proven ability to interpret and execute design briefs through robust exploration and brand strategy.

• Resourceful and proactive, with the ability to work independently under pressure across multiple projects.

• Strong collaborative instincts and ability to work effectively within a team environment.

• Strong time management, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to prepare focused, compelling presentations for both in-person and remote audiences.

• Strong work ethic and a positive, can-do attitude. Preferred Skills:

• Strong logo development and custom lettering skills.

• Illustration and photography skills are a plus.

• Experience within the Wine and Spirits industry.

• Understanding of shelf visibility and retail performance metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "advanced knowledge of print production," "mechanicals," and "press checks" indicates a need for operational understanding beyond pure creative design, requiring an ability to manage production workflows and quality control.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating strong design execution and strategic thinking, with a clear focus on packaging design.

• Case studies showcasing the end-to-end process from brief interpretation to final production-ready artwork.

• Examples that highlight expertise in luxury branding, visual systems, and line extensions.

• Visuals that demonstrate an understanding of print production nuances, material selection, and how design translates to physical products.

• Evidence of ability to curate and retouch imagery to meet specific brand aesthetic standards. Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for documentation, the role demands a clear understanding of the packaging design lifecycle, including:

  • Briefing and concept development phases.

  • Design exploration and iteration stages.

  • Production readiness and art file preparation.

  • Print vendor collaboration and quality assurance.

  • Cross-functional alignment and sign-off processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description strongly implies a need for a portfolio that showcases not just aesthetic talent but also a deep understanding of the operational aspects of packaging design, from concept to shelf-ready product. This includes demonstrating an ability to manage the process and collaborate with production and brand teams.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $145,000.00 - $160,000.00 Annually

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

• Life insurance benefits.

• Disability benefits.

• Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Wellness programs.

• Fertility and family-building benefits.

• 401(k) plan with potential for discretionary profit-sharing contributions from TFE. Working Hours:

• Standard work hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Long and/or irregular hours may be required during peak seasons and special events.

• The role operates under a hybrid work model: 4 days in the Napa, CA office and 1 day remote on Fridays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided for a senior-level design role in Napa, CA. The benefits package is typical for a full-time exempt position in the US, with specific offerings like fertility and family building benefits noted. The hybrid work arrangement with a specific number of in-office days is a key detail for operations professionals evaluating work-life integration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Wine and Spirits Manufacturing & Distribution. Trinchero Family Estates is a prominent player in the global wine industry, known for its diverse portfolio of brands ranging from accessible to luxury. This context means a focus on brand integrity, market trends, and consumer appeal within a highly competitive sector.

Company Size: Trinchero Family Estates is a large organization, likely falling into the 1,000-10,000+ employee range, indicated by its extensive operations and brand portfolio. For operations professionals, this typically means established processes, opportunities for specialization, and potential for significant impact within a structured environment.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly provided in the raw input, Trinchero Family Estates has a long history in the wine industry, established in 1948. This longevity suggests a stable company with deep roots and established operational frameworks, but also a need for continuous innovation to stay relevant.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Marketing department, reporting to a Creative Director.

• It involves close collaboration with Brand Managers, Packaging Production teams, and potentially external agencies.

• The Design Director is expected to operate with minimal supervision, indicating a high degree of autonomy within the team. Methodology:

• Design direction is guided by project briefs and high-level creative direction.

• Emphasis is placed on data-driven insights related to shelf visibility and retail performance, informing design decisions.

• The team likely employs a structured approach to project management, from concept ideation through to production execution and quality control.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, ensuring alignment across departments.

Company Website: https://jobs.tfewines.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of a large, established wine and spirits company implies a sophisticated marketing and operations structure. Operations professionals will find a need to navigate established processes while contributing to innovative packaging solutions that meet both brand and commercial objectives.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior-level position, equivalent to a Director or Lead within a creative operations or marketing operations function focused on product development. It requires significant autonomy, strategic input, and end-to-end project ownership.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director reports to a Creative Director within the Marketing department. This indicates a clear hierarchy with strategic oversight from a senior creative leader.

Operations Impact: The Design Director's work directly impacts brand equity, consumer perception, and ultimately, retail performance and sales revenue. By creating compelling and effective packaging, this role influences purchasing decisions at the point of sale and strengthens the market position of Trinchero Family Estates' luxury brands.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in luxury packaging design within the wine and spirits sector, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Leadership Expansion: Potentially move into a Senior Director or VP of Creative/Packaging role, managing larger teams and broader creative strategies.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Transition into broader brand management or product development roles where packaging expertise is a key asset.

• Skill Development: Continuously learn about new printing technologies, sustainable packaging solutions, and evolving consumer trends to maintain a competitive edge.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role represents a significant step into a leadership position within the creative production pipeline. Growth opportunities are tied to deepening specialized expertise and potentially expanding into broader strategic or management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, with a hybrid arrangement. The "On-Site" designation suggests a traditional office setting conducive to collaboration, material review, and team interaction.

Office Location(s): Napa, California (US-CA) 94558. This location is in the heart of wine country, offering a unique environment for a wine and spirits company.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model with 4 days in-office emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration, team meetings, and direct interaction with brand managers and production teams.

• Tools & Technology: Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is a must, indicating a well-equipped design studio. Access to print production resources and potentially physical material libraries for review is also implied.

• Team Interaction: Regular meetings with brand managers, Creative Director, and production teams are expected, fostering strong working relationships.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, but with the expectation of long or irregular hours during peak seasons and events.

• The hybrid model offers some flexibility with one remote day per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Napa location and the emphasis on in-office collaboration for 4 days a week suggest a traditional, yet flexible, work environment. Operations professionals should consider the implications of being on-site for critical reviews and team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Creative/Technical Interviews: Likely involve discussions about design philosophy, process, and technical skills, potentially with a portfolio walkthrough.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with Brand Managers and potentially Production team members to assess collaboration style, communication, and understanding of business needs.

• Presentation Challenge: Candidates may be asked to present existing work from their portfolio or a hypothetical design solution, demonstrating their presentation skills and strategic thinking.

• Final Rounds: Discussions with senior leadership (e.g., Creative Director, VP of Marketing) to evaluate strategic alignment and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase End-to-End Process: Clearly illustrate your role and contribution in each stage of packaging development, from concept to final production files.

• Highlight Strategic Thinking: For each project, explain the brief, your strategic approach, how you addressed brand objectives, and the rationale behind your design decisions.

• Demonstrate Production Acumen: Include examples that show your understanding of print production, materials, inks, and finishes. Detail how you ensured designs were production-ready.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you have data on how your packaging designs influenced sales, shelf presence, or brand perception, include it.

• Tailor to Luxury: Ensure your portfolio reflects an understanding of luxury branding aesthetics and execution.

• Presentation Readiness: Be prepared to present your portfolio concisely and compellingly, articulating your process and outcomes clearly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Brief Interpretation: Practice dissecting creative briefs and formulating strategic design responses.

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you handle creative challenges, production issues, or conflicting stakeholder feedback.

• Presentation Skills: Rehearse delivering clear, concise, and persuasive presentations of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize the candidate's portfolio for evidence of strategic thinking, operational understanding of production, and ability to collaborate effectively. A strong portfolio that tells a story of process and impact is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency is mandatory, specifically:
  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logo development, and detailed artwork.
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image manipulation, retouching, mockups, and raster graphics.
  • Adobe InDesign: For layout design, typesetting, and preparing print-ready files.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct analytics role, the Design Director must understand how design impacts shelf visibility and retail performance. This implies familiarity with:

  • Retail environment insights.

  • Consumer behavior data related to packaging.

  • Performance metrics for successful packaging campaigns (e.g., sales lift, market share). CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core functions, but awareness of how packaging integrates with broader marketing campaigns and product launches might involve understanding CRM principles for campaign alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary technical requirement is deep expertise in Adobe Creative Suite. The role requires an understanding of how design output integrates with production workflows and influences commercial outcomes, rather than direct use of CRM or marketing automation platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Detail: An uncompromising standard of quality, with a keen eye for typography, color accuracy, and overall polish.

• Strategic Partnership: Working collaboratively with Brand Managers and Creative Directors to ensure design aligns with brand strategy and business objectives.

• Innovation & Trend Awareness: Staying current with design tools, technologies, and market trends to bring fresh perspectives.

• Efficiency & Accountability: Owning projects end-to-end, managing timelines, and delivering high-quality work in a fast-paced environment.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding the refined sensibility of elevated packaging design while ensuring shelf visibility and retail performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with Brand Managers, Packaging Production teams, and potentially external agencies to ensure seamless project execution.

• Feedback & Iteration: Openness to receiving and incorporating feedback from stakeholders to refine designs.

• Proactive Communication: Keeping teams informed and aligned throughout the design process.

• Presentation Proficiency: Effectively communicating design concepts and rationale to various audiences, both in-person and remotely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of creative excellence and operational rigor. The ability to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and maintain high standards of execution are paramount for success in this role and within the company's operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Commercial Demands: Successfully translating the refined aesthetic of luxury packaging into designs that are both visually stunning and commercially effective on the shelf.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Agendas: Aligning diverse opinions and requirements from Brand Managers, Marketing, Production, and potentially senior leadership.

• Navigating Fast-Paced Environment: Delivering high-quality creative work under tight deadlines, especially during peak seasons or for new product launches.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously adapting to evolving consumer preferences, design aesthetics, and technological advancements in packaging materials and production.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Luxury Wine & Spirits Packaging: Gain unparalleled experience in a niche, high-value segment of the CPG market.

• Production Process Mastery: Develop advanced expertise in print production, materials, and finishing techniques specific to premium packaging.

• Strategic Brand Influence: Grow in ability to influence brand strategy through packaging design, impacting market positioning and commercial success.

• Cross-functional Skill Development: Enhance collaboration and communication skills by working with diverse teams across the organization.

• Potential for Leadership Growth: Opportunities to take on more senior leadership roles within the creative or marketing operations functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges that are common in senior creative operations roles within dynamic industries. The growth opportunities are significant for those looking to specialize and develop strategic influence within the packaging design and GTM process.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for interpreting a packaging design brief for a luxury brand. How do you ensure it aligns with both brand strategy and market performance?"

• "Walk us through a challenging packaging project from your portfolio. What were the key obstacles, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you balance creative innovation with the practical constraints of print production and budget? Provide an example." Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Trinchero Family Estates and our portfolio of luxury wine and spirits brands?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with Brand Managers and Production teams to ensure successful project outcomes?"

• "Describe a time you had to present a design concept that was met with significant pushback. How did you handle it?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio logically, ideally by project, with a clear narrative for each. Start with the brief/challenge, detail your process and solutions, and conclude with the outcome and impact.

• Highlight Your Role: Be explicit about your individual contributions, especially in collaborative projects.

• Showcase Production Knowledge: For each packaging example, be ready to discuss materials, printing techniques, and any production-specific considerations.

• Focus on Strategy: Explain why you made certain design choices, linking them back to brand objectives and consumer insights.

• Conciseness: Practice presenting your key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a holistic understanding of packaging design, encompassing creative strategy, operational execution, and effective stakeholder management. Be ready to articulate your process and impact with specific examples from your portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director, Packaging position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Trinchero Family Estates careers website.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your best packaging design work, with a clear emphasis on luxury brands and CPG experience. Tailor the presentation to highlight your understanding of print production and strategic brand alignment.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to reflect your 6+ years of experience in package design, highlighting advanced Adobe Creative Suite skills, print production knowledge, and any experience with wine/spirits or luxury CPG. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, strategic thinking, and operational approach to packaging projects. Prepare to discuss specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate your ability to collaborate and deliver results.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Trinchero Family Estates' brand portfolio, market position, and any recent packaging initiatives. Understand their commitment to luxury and quality.

⚠️ 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.

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