Digital Creative Designer
๐ Job Overview
Job Title: Digital Creative Designer
Company: Distilled
Location: Dublin, Ireland / Remote
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Creative Design / Marketing Operations
Date Posted: September 4, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid (Optional Remote)
๐ Role Summary
-
Design and execute high-impact digital campaigns and motion content for leading Irish online platforms (Daft.ie, DoneDeal, Adverts.ie).
-
Integrate emerging generative AI tools and automation into creative workflows to enhance efficiency and inspire new approaches.
-
Collaborate closely with Marketing, Product, and Sales teams to translate strategic briefs into visually compelling and effective creative assets.
-
Lead design projects from conceptualization through to final delivery, ensuring brand consistency and high-quality execution.
-
Develop a portfolio showcasing strong digital craft, creative storytelling, and a modern, digital-first design sensibility.
๐ Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is on creative design, the collaboration with Sales and Product teams, and the emphasis on driving "real results," positions this role within a broader Go-To-Market (GTM) operations context. The utilization of AI and automation in design workflows also touches upon operational efficiency within the creative process.
๐ Primary Responsibilities
-
Design visually compelling digital and advertising assets, including campaign visuals, display ads, and rich-media formats, to meet performance goals and brand standards under tight deadlines.
-
Produce engaging motion content, such as short-form animations, GIFs, and video edits, to enhance brand storytelling and user communications.
-
Proactively explore and apply new generative AI tools (e.g., Midjourney, Firefly, Runway) and automation techniques to optimize design workflows and inspire innovative creative solutions.
-
Partner effectively with Marketing, Product, and Sales stakeholders to understand campaign objectives, gather requirements, and translate briefs into on-brand, impactful creative output.
-
Manage design projects from ideation and concept development through to final asset delivery, actively incorporating feedback and ensuring meticulous execution.
-
Uphold and evolve Distilled's brand style guides and design systems, ensuring a cohesive and consistent visual identity across all platforms and channels.
๐ Enhancement Note: The responsibility of "driving real results" implies a need for the designer to understand campaign performance metrics and how creative output influences business outcomes. This suggests a level of analytical thinking and an understanding of GTM strategy beyond pure aesthetics.
๐ Skills & Qualifications
Education: No specific educational requirements are listed, indicating a focus on portfolio and practical experience.
Experience: 3+ years in a creative, brand, or digital design role, preferably within marketing, media, or advertising sectors. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Required Skills:
-
Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, InDesign).
-
Demonstrated experience using AI tools for creative concept generation and experimentation (e.g., Midjourney, Firefly, Gamma AI, Runway).
-
Solid understanding of layout, typography, color theory, and visual storytelling principles.
-
Proven ability to create impactful digital-first designs, evidenced by a diverse and strong portfolio.
-
Experience or strong interest in animation, motion graphics, GIFs, or short-form video storytelling.
-
Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to articulate creative ideas, incorporate feedback, and work effectively with cross-functional teams.
-
Experience with Google Web Designer. Preferred Skills:
-
Proficiency with Figma.
๐ Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AI tools like Midjourney and Runway, alongside traditional Adobe Suite proficiency, suggests a forward-thinking design team looking to leverage cutting-edge technology for creative output and operational efficiency. The "digital-first thinking" requirement points towards an understanding of web and digital platform constraints and best practices.
๐ Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of digital design work, including campaign visuals, motion graphics, and examples of AI-assisted creative.
-
Demonstrations of understanding brand consistency and how to apply it across different platforms.
-
Case studies or examples that highlight the impact of design on campaign performance or user engagement.
-
Evidence of digital-first design thinking and adaptation to various digital formats.
-
Examples of collaboration with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals. Process Documentation:
-
While not explicitly stated, candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from brief interpretation to final asset delivery, including how they incorporate feedback and manage timelines.
-
The ability to explain how new tools and technologies (like AI) are integrated into established creative workflows will be a key differentiator.
๐ Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is critical. It should not only display aesthetic talent but also demonstrate an understanding of how design supports business objectives (marketing, sales, product) and an innovative approach to creative problem-solving using modern tools.
๐ต Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Mid-Level Digital Creative Designer in Dublin, Ireland, with optional remote work, the estimated salary range is โฌ40,000 - โฌ55,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Dublin and the company's stated commitment to employee well-being and career development.
Benefits:
-
Optional remote work flexibility, allowing for a hybrid work arrangement.
-
Life insurance.
-
Fully-paid healthcare.
-
5% contribution towards a pension.
-
Focused career development, growth, and progression opportunities.
-
An inclusive environment where employees are listened to and trusted.
-
Opportunities for learning and appreciation.
-
Central Dublin office location.
Working Hours: Full-time, with a standard expectation of 40 hours per week. The company culture emphasizes flexibility and valuing employee time, suggesting a focus on output rather than strict adherence to hours, especially within a hybrid or remote context.
๐ Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for Ireland and the specified experience level. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific skills, portfolio, and interview performance. The benefits package highlights a strong emphasis on employee well-being and professional growth, which is attractive for operations-minded professionals who value a supportive work environment.
๐ฏ Team & Company Context
๐ข Company Culture
Industry: Internet / Online Marketplaces (specifically for classifieds and e-commerce). Distilled operates Daft.ie, DoneDeal, and Adverts.ie, making it a significant player in Ireland's digital classifieds and marketplace sector.
Company Size: The provided data doesn't specify exact size, but operating three major platforms suggests a medium to large organization with substantial reach and impact.
Founded: Not explicitly stated, but the longevity and market presence of its brands imply a well-established company with a history of innovation.
Team Structure:
-
The role is within an in-house Design team.
-
Close collaboration is expected with Marketing, Product, and Sales departments, indicating a cross-functional operational structure where design plays a key role in GTM initiatives.
-
The "Design team" likely comprises various design specialists, with this role focusing on digital and motion creative. Methodology:
-
Data-driven approach is implied through collaboration with Marketing and Product teams focused on "performance goals" and "real results."
-
Emphasis on "creative storytelling" and "digital craft" combined with "efficiently delivered" work.
-
Integration of "emerging tools and technologies (including automation and AI)" signifies a forward-thinking and process-improvement-oriented approach.
Company Website: distilled.net
๐ Enhancement Note: Distilled's focus on making buying and selling simple for millions of Irish users underscores its operational mission. The company culture appears to prioritize user experience, innovation, and employee growth, which are critical for any operational team aiming for efficiency and impact.
๐ Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Digital Creative Designer. It offers hands-on execution with significant creative input, bridging the gap between junior execution and senior strategic design. The scope includes leading projects and influencing creative direction within campaigns.
Reporting Structure: The designer will join the in-house Design team and collaborate closely with Marketing, Product, and Sales. The specific reporting line within the Design team isn't detailed but likely falls under a Design Lead or Manager.
Operations Impact: The designer's work directly impacts brand perception, user engagement, and campaign performance, which in turn drives GTM success for Daft.ie, DoneDeal, and Adverts.ie. By creating "visually engaging, strategically effective and efficiently delivered" work, the designer contributes to lead generation, user acquisition, and overall platform growth.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in AI-driven creative tools, motion graphics, and advanced digital design techniques.
-
Leadership Potential: Opportunity to lead design projects and potentially mentor junior designers as the team grows.
-
Cross-functional Exposure: Gain deeper insights into Marketing, Product, and Sales strategies, potentially leading to roles in GTM operations, brand management, or creative strategy.
-
Industry Specialization: Become a specialist in designing for large-scale online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms.
๐ Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid foundation for a career in creative operations or GTM marketing, particularly for those who enjoy blending creative execution with an understanding of business objectives and technological innovation. The emphasis on AI and automation suggests a path towards more operationally efficient creative roles.
๐ Work Environment
Office Type: Distilled offers a hybrid model, with an optional central Dublin office and the possibility of working from home. This suggests a modern, flexible work environment.
Office Location(s): Centrally located in Dublin, Ireland. The specific address is not provided but implies accessibility within the city.
Workspace Context:
-
A collaborative environment where designers work closely with Marketing, Product, and Sales teams, facilitating cross-functional understanding and idea exchange.
-
Access to industry-standard design tools and emerging technologies, including AI creative platforms.
-
The culture promotes a sense of being "listened to and trusted," suggesting an environment where contributions are valued and autonomy is encouraged.
Work Schedule: Full-time (approximately 40 hours/week). The culture values output and employee well-being, suggesting that while there are core hours, there's flexibility in how and when work is completed, especially within a hybrid or remote setup.
๐ Enhancement Note: The hybrid and optional remote nature of the role is a significant draw for operations professionals who value work-life balance and autonomy. The collaborative workspace context implies a dynamic environment where operational efficiency is achieved through effective communication and integrated teamwork.
๐ Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess creative skills, relevant experience, and alignment with required tools/technologies.
-
Creative Task/Challenge: Likely a design exercise or a case study presentation focusing on a specific brief, testing design craft, problem-solving, and understanding of campaign goals. This might involve creating campaign assets or conceptualizing a new creative approach using AI tools.
-
Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with members of the Design team, as well as potential collaborators from Marketing, Product, or Sales, to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural fit.
-
Final Interview: Potentially with a hiring manager or department head to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and confirm understanding of the role's impact.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Highlight AI Integration: Showcase how you've effectively used AI tools (Midjourney, Runway, etc.) to generate concepts, improve workflows, or create unique visual assets.
-
Demonstrate Digital-First Thinking: Ensure your portfolio includes examples optimized for digital platforms, showing an understanding of responsive design, web banners, social media creatives, etc.
-
Showcase Motion Graphics: Include examples of animation, GIFs, or short video edits that tell a story or enhance brand messaging.
-
Contextualize Your Work: For each piece, briefly explain the brief, your role, the challenges faced, your creative process, and the outcome or impact (if measurable).
-
Brand Consistency Examples: If possible, show how you've maintained or evolved brand guidelines across different touchpoints.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Understand the Brands: Familiarize yourself with Daft.ie, DoneDeal, and Adverts.ie โ their target audiences, current marketing efforts, and brand voice.
-
AI Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific AI creative tools and how you envision their application in a real-world marketing campaign for these platforms.
-
Process Articulation: Be prepared to walk through your design process for a given brief, emphasizing efficiency, collaboration, and how you handle feedback.
-
Outcome-Oriented: Frame your work and answers around achieving specific business goals (e.g., engagement, conversions, brand awareness).
๐ Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AI tools and the hybrid nature of the role suggest that interviewers will be looking for candidates who are not only creative but also adaptable, technologically savvy, and capable of contributing to efficient operational workflows within the creative function.
๐ Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, InDesign (Required proficiency).
-
Google Web Designer: For creating interactive digital ads.
-
Figma: Preferred, indicating a move towards collaborative design platforms.
-
AI Creative Tools: Midjourney, Firefly, Gamma AI, Runway (Required experience for concept generation and experimentation).
Analytics & Reporting: While not explicitly listed for the designer, understanding how their creative assets perform on digital platforms would be beneficial. Collaboration with marketing teams implies exposure to analytics tools used for campaign tracking.
CRM & Automation: No direct CRM/Automation tools are listed for this role, but the designer will likely work with marketing automation platforms for asset deployment and campaign management, requiring an understanding of asset specifications and integration needs.
๐ Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is a baseline requirement. The critical differentiator will be demonstrated experience and enthusiasm for integrating generative AI tools into the design process. Familiarity with Figma is also a strong plus, indicating a modern design workflow.
๐ฅ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Growth Mindset: Willingness to learn new tools (especially AI), adapt to evolving creative trends, and embrace challenges.
-
Simplify Things: Creating clear, effective, and easily digestible creative assets that communicate complex ideas simply.
-
Make Things Happen: Proactive approach to project execution, meeting deadlines, and driving creative projects from concept to completion efficiently.
-
Collaborate: Working effectively with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Product, Sales) to achieve shared goals and ensure cohesive brand messaging.
-
Passionate: Genuine enthusiasm for design, creativity, and contributing to the success of well-known Irish brands.
Collaboration Style:
-
Team-oriented, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional partnerships.
-
Open to feedback and iterative design processes.
-
Communication is key, with the ability to articulate creative concepts and rationale clearly.
-
A culture that values being "listened to and trusted," fostering an environment of mutual respect and shared ownership.
๐ Enhancement Note: The company values align well with operational excellence: a proactive, collaborative, and growth-oriented mindset is essential for driving efficiency and continuous improvement within any team, including creative operations.
โก Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape: Staying current with the fast pace of AI tool development and effectively integrating new capabilities into design workflows.
-
Balancing Creativity with Efficiency: Producing high-quality, innovative creative work while meeting tight deadlines and performance goals.
-
Cross-functional Communication: Effectively translating diverse stakeholder needs (Marketing, Product, Sales) into cohesive creative solutions.
-
Brand Evolution: Contributing to the ongoing development and consistency of multiple established brands (Daft.ie, DoneDeal, Adverts.ie).
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
AI & Generative Design Specialization: Deep dive into advanced AI prompting, workflow automation, and ethical AI use in creative contexts.
-
Motion Graphics & Video Production: Enhance skills in animation, video editing, and dynamic content creation.
-
GTM Strategy Exposure: Gain a deeper understanding of how creative design directly impacts marketing campaigns, product launches, and sales enablement.
-
Portfolio Development: Continuous opportunity to build a strong, modern portfolio showcasing cutting-edge skills.
๐ Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in dynamic GTM environments, requiring adaptability and continuous learning. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, offering a path for specialization in emerging creative technologies and strategic marketing alignment.
๐ก Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"How would you approach designing a digital campaign to drive user engagement for Daft.ie's new property listing feature, considering our target audience and performance goals?" (Focus on process, audience understanding, and outcome-orientation.)
-
"Describe a time you used AI tools in your design process. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?" (Demonstrate AI proficiency and reflective learning.)
-
"How do you ensure brand consistency across different digital platforms and campaign assets, especially when working with multiple stakeholders?" (Highlight collaboration, process, and brand guardianship.) Company & Culture Questions:
-
"What excites you about Distilled and our brands (Daft.ie, DoneDeal, Adverts.ie)?" (Show genuine interest and research.)
-
"How do you see your role contributing to the success of our marketing and sales objectives?" (Connect your skills to business impact.)
-
"Describe your ideal collaborative environment. How do you handle constructive feedback from team members or stakeholders?" (Assess cultural fit and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly outline the brief, your role, the problem, your solution (including AI/motion aspects), and the results.
-
Emphasize Process: Detail how you arrive at your solutions โ your research, ideation, iteration, and tool usage.
-
Highlight AI & Motion: Clearly showcase where and how you've leveraged AI tools and motion graphics to enhance your work.
-
Quantify Impact: If possible, use metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.
-
Be Prepared to Discuss: Anticipate questions about your design choices, tool proficiency, and how you adapt to new technologies.
๐ Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples of how you've used AI in design, your process for campaign asset creation, and your understanding of brand consistency will be crucial. Tailoring your answers to Distilled's brands and values will significantly strengthen your application.
๐ Application Steps
To apply for this Digital Creative Designer position:
-
Submit your application through the provided link on the Distilled careers page.
-
Customize Your Resume: Highlight experience with Adobe Creative Suite, AI creative tools (Midjourney, Runway, etc.), motion design, and digital campaign execution. Quantify achievements where possible.
-
Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure it showcases your best digital design work, with specific sections or examples demonstrating your proficiency with AI tools and motion graphics. Include case studies that highlight problem-solving and impact.
-
Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your design process, your experience with the required tools, and how you collaborate effectively. Practice presenting your portfolio and answering potential interview questions.
-
Research Distilled: Understand their brands (Daft.ie, DoneDeal, Adverts.ie), their mission, and their company values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.
โ ๏ธ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates must have 3+ years of experience in a creative or digital design role with a strong portfolio demonstrating digital-first thinking. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and experience with motion design or AI-driven creative tools is required.