Graphic Designer 100% (a)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer 100% (a)

Company: Brand Leadership Circle

Location: Steinhausen, Zug, Switzerland

Job Type: Festanstellung (Full-time)

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Consulting / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-10-02

Experience Level: Mid-Level (Approx. 3-6 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (On-site with 1-2 days of home office possible)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a key position within an integrated creative team, focusing on developing and refining visual identities, corporate designs, and digital brand applications for a portfolio of international luxury and design companies.

• The Graphic Designer will work at the intersection of business strategy, brand development, and creative execution, contributing to company transformation and growth strategies.

• Responsibilities include the precise development of visual systems, consistent brand application across touchpoints, and close collaboration with art directors, strategists, and consultants.

• A strong emphasis is placed on both high-quality design execution and a deep understanding of the strategic and business context behind the design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's description as "Graphic Designer 100%" implies a full-time, dedicated position within the creative team. The company's description of House of Manus Studio and the Hotz Group suggests a consultancy focused on brand and business strategy for high-end clients, indicating that this design role will be integral to client-facing projects and strategic brand development, not just execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and refine visual identities, corporate designs, and comprehensive design systems.

• Create and evolve logos, logo systems, brand guidelines, typography, color palettes, and imagery.

• Design and advance digital brand applications, with a specific focus on websites, responsive designs, and digital design systems.

• Produce communication materials and brand applications across various touchpoints including web, social media, campaigns, motion graphics, and print.

• Ensure precise implementation of design concepts and maintain consistent visual brand leadership.

• Collaborate closely with Art Directors, Strategists, and Consultants to develop effective and actionable solutions.

• Contribute innovative ideas and actively participate in creative and design-related discussions.

• Prepare and present design drafts and variations within the team and potentially to clients.

• Actively utilize and advance proficiency in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and emerging design tools.

• Engage with strategic and business contexts to contribute to the growth and development of the creative team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core graphic design tasks (logos, brand guidelines, digital applications) and strategic integration (understanding brand strategy, working with strategists, contributing to team development). The emphasis on "digital applications" and "responsive design" indicates a strong focus on modern digital platforms.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field is typically expected for this level of experience.

Experience: Approximately 3–6 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a demonstrable focus on branding and digital projects.

Required Skills:

• Strong portfolio showcasing branding, corporate design, and digital projects.

• Proven experience in branding, corporate design, and visual identity development.

• Expertise in logo development, design systems, brand guidelines, typography, color systems, and imagery.

• Deep understanding of how brands function from logo and core systems to digital applications.

• Highly proficient in Figma.

• Proficient in the Adobe Creative Suite.

• Understanding of responsive design principles and digital design systems.

• Strong German language skills (written and spoken); good English communication skills are also beneficial for a potentially international client base.

• Ability to understand strategic and content-related questions and the "why" behind design decisions. Preferred Skills:

• Motion graphics and After Effects proficiency.

• Experience with AI tools and new creative technologies.

• Experience in print or editorial design (though not the primary focus).

📝 Enhancement Note: The description explicitly states that the role is not for a "pure production designer," "print-only," or "editorial graphic designer." This emphasizes the need for candidates who understand branding holistically, think digitally, and possess a high design standard. The requirement for understanding the "why" behind design points to a strategic, consultative approach rather than purely execution-focused skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A very strong, design-oriented portfolio is mandatory.

• Must contain compelling examples of branding, website, and digital projects.

• Demonstrates experience in logo development, design systems, brand guidelines, typography, color systems, and imagery.

• Showcases an understanding of how a brand translates from its core elements to digital applications.

• Includes examples of responsive design and digital design systems. Process Documentation:

• Portfolio should ideally illustrate the design process, from initial concept to final execution, highlighting strategic considerations and problem-solving approaches.

• Examples of how brand consistency was maintained across various touchpoints should be evident.

• Case studies demonstrating the application of design systems and their impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Portfolio Essentials" are heavily emphasized as a mandatory requirement. The emphasis on understanding the "why" behind design and strategic context suggests that the portfolio should not just be a collection of final outputs, but should also provide insights into the candidate's thought process, strategic thinking, and understanding of brand development principles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the location (Steinhausen, Zug, Switzerland), experience level (3-6 years), and the specialized nature of the role in a premium branding and design consultancy, a competitive salary range would be estimated between CHF 90,000 - CHF 120,000 per year.

Benefits:

• 29 days of vacation.

• Subsidy for lunch.

• Free coffee.

• Free drinks.

• Fresh fruit.

• Diverse opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

• Regular company events.

• Attractive employee benefits and discounts.

• Work-life balance and well-being are prioritized.

Working Hours: The role is advertised as 100%, which typically equates to approximately 40 working hours per week in Switzerland. The hybrid arrangement allows for 1-2 days of home office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on Swiss market rates for experienced graphic designers in specialized creative roles, considering the high cost of living in the canton of Zug and the premium nature of the company's client base. Benefits are detailed as provided in the listing.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company operates within the Luxury Goods, Design, and Business Consulting sectors, focusing on company transformation, brand development, and growth strategies for international clients.

Company Size: The provided information suggests the company is part of the "Hotz Group" and operates under "Brand Leadership Circle" and "House of Manus Studio." While exact numbers aren't given, the focus on building an integrated creative team and working with international companies implies a medium-sized to large consultancy structure with specialized departments.

Founded: The company's history is not explicitly stated, but its current phase of "further development" and "targeted expansion of creative competencies" suggests a company that is evolving and growing. House of Manus Studio is presented as a key entity, with a website provided.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of an "integrated creative team" being built.

• This team will serve House of Manus and other group companies.

• The team works at the "interface of business strategy, brand, and design."

• Collaboration includes Art Directors, Strategists, and Consultants.

• Flat hierarchies and direct exchange with leadership are mentioned. Methodology:

• Holistic and culturally grounded approach to company transformation, brand, and product development.

• Partnership-based and implementation-oriented methodology.

• Strategic and entrepreneurial thinking combined with excellent creative and design work.

• Design and strategy are seen as mutual enablers for sustainable value creation.

• Agile, uncomplicated, and pragmatic work style.

• Open communication, knowledge sharing, and constructive feedback. Company Website:

• House of Manus: https://www.houseofmanus.ch

• Hotz Studio: https://hotz.studio

• Brand Leadership Circle (implied by domain): https://brandleadershipcircle.swiss (though this might be a job portal domain, not the main company site)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as dynamic, collaborative, and pragmatic, with an emphasis on combining strategic business thinking with high-quality design execution. The "flat hierarchies" and "open communication" suggest a less traditional, more agile agency environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Graphic Designer, requiring approximately 3-6 years of experience. It's not an entry-level or senior/lead position but offers significant responsibility and a chance to influence the growth of the creative team.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will work closely with Art Directors, Strategists, and Consultants. They will be part of a newly forming "integrated creative team," suggesting a collaborative reporting structure where direct input to leadership is possible.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts client brand perception, market presence, and business growth strategies. By bridging strategy and design, their contributions are crucial for delivering tangible value and achieving client objectives, which are central to the consultancy's mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in branding, digital design systems, and potentially motion graphics or AI tools.

• Strategic Development: Gain exposure to business strategy and entrepreneurial thinking, enhancing the ability to understand and contribute to broader business goals.

• Team Influence: Play an active role in shaping and growing the new creative team, potentially leading to future leadership opportunities as the team expands.

• Client Interaction: Develop skills in presenting work and ideas to clients, building client-facing communication abilities.

• Industry Exposure: Work on diverse projects for national and international clients at the forefront of strategy, brand, and digital transformation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a unique opportunity for growth beyond traditional graphic design, focusing on strategic integration and team development within a consultancy setting. This aligns with trends in operations and GTM roles where design is increasingly seen as a strategic lever.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company has a modern office located in Steinhausen, Zug, Switzerland. It offers a physical workspace conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): The primary office is in Steinhausen, Zug. It is noted to have very good connections via motorway and public transport.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative environment with flat hierarchies and open communication.

• Direct exchange with the company leadership is encouraged.

• The workspace is equipped with modern design tools and technology, including Figma and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Opportunities for interdisciplinary teamwork with strategists, consultants, and other specialists.

Work Schedule: The position is 100% full-time, typically around 40 hours per week. A hybrid work model is offered, allowing for 1-2 days of home office per week, providing flexibility while maintaining in-office collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes a modern, flexible, and collaborative work environment. The location in Zug is a significant economic hub in Switzerland, known for its business-friendly climate.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: While not explicitly detailed, a typical process for this type of role in a consultancy would likely include:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess fundamental qualifications.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, focusing on project rationale, design process, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities. This is where the "why" behind the design is critically evaluated.

• Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Discussions with Art Directors, Strategists, or Consultants to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural fit within the integrated team.

• Potential Design Challenge: A small, focused design task or case study might be given to evaluate practical skills, strategic application, and approach to problem-solving under constraints.

• Final Interview: Discussion with leadership to confirm fit, discuss role expectations, and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Strategic Thinking: Beyond aesthetics, demonstrate how your designs solve business problems and align with brand strategy. Explain the rationale behind your creative choices.

• Showcase Process: Include case studies that illustrate your workflow, from research and conceptualization to iteration and final delivery.

• Focus on Branding & Digital: Ensure your portfolio prominently features branding projects, corporate identities, and digital applications (websites, design systems) as requested.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: While not always explicitly shown, your work should reflect mastery of Figma and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any projects led to measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, improved brand perception), highlight these.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the company's focus on strategy, brand transformation, and digital solutions for luxury/design clients.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you approach branding challenges, develop visual systems, and translate strategic goals into design solutions.

• Practice articulating your design process and the strategic thinking behind your work concisely.

• Understand the company's methodology: combining strategy with design, agile work style, and focus on value creation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on strategic thinking and understanding the "why" means the portfolio review will be more than just a visual assessment. Candidates must be ready to articulate their decision-making process and connect their design work to business objectives.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Mandatory, primary tool for design and prototyping. High proficiency required.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Mandatory, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign (for print/guidelines). Proficiency required.

Analytics & Reporting: Not explicitly mentioned, but understanding how design impacts digital performance metrics would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the Graphic Designer role, but understanding how design integrates with marketing automation platforms or digital content management systems could be a plus.

Emerging Technologies:

• AI Tools: Expected to be used actively. Candidates should be comfortable exploring and applying new AI technologies in their creative workflow.

• New Design Tools: Willingness to learn and adopt new tools as they emerge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are Figma and the Adobe Creative Suite. The explicit mention of "AI tools" and "new design tools" indicates a forward-thinking environment that values innovation and continuous learning in technology.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Strategic Integration: A core value is the seamless integration of strategic and entrepreneurial thinking with excellent creative and design work. Design is not seen as a separate discipline but as a key enabler.

• Agility & Pragmatism: The team values an agile, uncomplicated, and pragmatic approach to work.

• Initiative & Teamwork: High importance is placed on personal initiative and a strong team spirit. Solutions are developed collaboratively.

• Open Communication: Openness, knowledge sharing, and constructive feedback are essential.

• Quality & Impact: A drive for excellent creative quality and a focus on creating sustainable value for clients.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Working closely with strategists, consultants, and art directors.

• Peer-to-Peer: Collaboration occurs "on eye level," regardless of function or hierarchy.

• Constructive: Feedback is actively sought and given constructively.

• Inclusive: Other perspectives are actively included in the creative process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a high-performance, collaborative environment where design is a strategic partner, not just an execution arm. The "flat hierarchy" and "open communication" suggest a dynamic and inclusive team atmosphere.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Strategy and Design: Effectively translating complex strategic concepts into compelling visual designs while understanding the "why" behind them.

• Team Development: Contributing to the formation and growth of a new integrated creative team.

• Client Expectations: Meeting the high standards of international luxury and design clients.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with and effectively integrating emerging AI and design tools into the workflow.

• Balancing Production and Strategy: Avoiding being a "pure production designer" by actively engaging with strategic and entrepreneurial aspects of the work.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Enhancement: Deepening expertise in branding, digital design systems, and potentially motion graphics.

• Strategic Acumen: Developing a stronger understanding of business strategy and consulting principles.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to influence the direction and growth of the creative team.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working with a range of international clients on cutting-edge brand and digital transformation projects.

• Continuous Learning: Actively encouraged to learn and apply new design tools and AI technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed as opportunities for growth, particularly in integrating strategic thinking into design and adapting to new technologies, which are key trends in modern GTM and operations roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How do you approach translating a client's business strategy into a visual identity?"

• "Describe a time you had to balance creative vision with strategic constraints or client feedback. How did you navigate it?"

• "Walk us through your process for developing a digital design system for a brand."

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple touchpoints, from digital applications to print?"

• "What role do you see AI playing in the future of graphic design, and how are you preparing for it?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to our company's approach of combining strategy and design?"

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially in a flat hierarchy?"

• "Describe your ideal team dynamic for creative problem-solving."

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your design work?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell the Story: For each project, explain the brief, your strategic approach, the challenges you faced, your design process, and the outcome.

• Focus on the "Why": Be ready to articulate the strategic reasoning behind your design choices. Why this color palette? Why this typography? Why this visual system?

• Highlight Branding & Digital: Ensure your presentation prominently features your strongest branding and digital design projects.

• Showcase Process & Tools: Briefly illustrate your workflow and how you utilized tools like Figma and Adobe Creative Suite to achieve the results.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your experience with AI, motion graphics, and your understanding of strategic brand development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, articulating the "why" behind design decisions, and showcasing proficiency in core tools like Figma within a branding and digital context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application form on the company's career portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that strongly emphasizes your branding, corporate design, and digital project experience. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your ability to develop visual systems and brand guidelines. Be ready to explain the strategic rationale behind your design choices.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 3-6 years of relevant experience, specific skills in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite, and any experience with AI tools or motion graphics. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, strategic thinking, and collaborative approach. Prepare to present your portfolio and discuss your understanding of brand strategy and digital design systems. Research the company's methodology and client work.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with House of Manus Studio, the Hotz Group, and their approach to strategy and design. Understand their client portfolio and the industries they serve to better align your application and interview responses.

⚠️ 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.