Graphic Designer / Art Director (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer / Art Director (m/w/d)

Company: Friedrich PICARD GmbH & Co. KG

Location: Bochum, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Marketing / Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-20

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the visual identity and brand communication strategy for an established international company.

• Conceptualize and execute impactful campaigns, key visuals, and brand assets across all relevant marketing channels.

• Develop and refine design systems, templates, and creative standards to ensure brand consistency and operational efficiency.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external agencies to deliver high-quality creative output from ideation to implementation.

• Contribute to the growth and structure of a dynamic, expanding marketing team, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a pivotal creative leader within the marketing department, emphasizing not just execution but also the strategic development of visual communication structures and standards. The "Art Director" title suggests a level of creative oversight and strategic input beyond a pure "Graphic Designer" role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of integrated marketing campaigns, key visuals, and overarching creative projects.

• Develop, manage, and evolve brand assets for diverse communication channels, including digital (social media, web) and analog (print, sales collateral, trade show materials).

• Ensure consistent brand application and visual identity across all touchpoints, acting as a guardian of the brand's aesthetic.

• Design and implement scalable design systems, templates, and creative standards to optimize workflow efficiency and maintain quality.

• Generate innovative visual formats and communication ideas to enhance brand engagement and market presence.

• Manage relationships and collaborate effectively with external agencies, photographers, production partners, and other creative professionals.

• Oversee design and production processes from initial concept through to final delivery, ensuring project timelines and quality objectives are met.

• Stay abreast of current design, communication, and technology trends, proactively integrating relevant insights into brand strategy and creative execution.

• Actively contribute to the strategic development and team-building efforts within the growing marketing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design leadership and hands-on execution. The emphasis on "development and further development of templates, design systems, and creative standards" points towards a need for someone who can build and optimize operational workflows for creative production.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Communication Design, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for an Art Director role. Candidates with a strong portfolio and equivalent extensive professional experience may also be considered.

Experience: 3-5 years of professional experience in graphic design, brand management, or communication design, with a proven track record of developing and executing creative concepts.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience in graphic, brand, or communication design.

• Strong portfolio demonstrating conceptual thinking, campaign execution, and brand asset development.

• Proficient in the Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro).

• Deep understanding of brand leadership principles, typography, layout, and visual communication best practices.

• Demonstrated ability to ensure quality and consistency across various formats and customer touchpoints.

• Structured, self-directed, and reliable work ethic.

• Creative mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation.

• Enthusiasm for collaborative teamwork and contributing fresh ideas. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI-assisted design and production processes.

• Familiarity with digital design tools and workflows (e.g., Figma, Sketch).

• Understanding of UX/UI principles for digital interfaces.

• Experience in managing external creative agencies and production partners.

• Knowledge of web design principles and social media content creation best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "interest in AI-supported design and production processes and openness to new tools and workflows" is a key differentiator, suggesting the company is forward-thinking and values adaptability in its creative hires. The 3-5 year experience range suggests a mid-level role with significant autonomy.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects demonstrating end-to-end campaign development from concept to execution.

• Include examples of brand asset creation, including logos, style guides, and multi-channel collateral.

• Highlight contributions to or development of design systems, templates, or standardized creative processes.

• Present examples of digital and print design work, clearly articulating the strategic objectives and outcomes for each.

• Demonstrate experience with consistent brand application across various platforms and touchpoints. Process Documentation:

• Provide case studies that detail the workflow for specific projects, including ideation, design phases, stakeholder feedback, and final implementation.

• Illustrate how design standards and templates were developed and utilized to ensure efficiency and consistency.

• Show examples of how design challenges were overcome through process innovation or adaptation.

• Quantify results where possible, e.g., improvements in brand recognition, engagement metrics, or production efficiency attributed to design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer/Art Director role, a portfolio is paramount. The emphasis on "developing and further developing of templates, design systems, and creative standards" means applicants should highlight any experience in process optimization within creative workflows, not just the final visual output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers/Art Directors with 3-5 years of experience in Germany, specifically in the North Rhine-Westphalia region, the estimated annual gross salary range is €45,000 - €60,000. This range accounts for the specified experience level, the company's international presence, and the hybrid work model.

Benefits:

• Full-time employment contract with an international company boasting over 100 years of industry experience.

• Performance-based salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

• Generous 30 days of annual vacation.

• Hybrid work model with a home office option (2 days per week).

• Flexible working hours to promote work-life balance.

• Modern office and IT equipment provided.

• Comprehensive onboarding program with dedicated contacts and a supportive team environment.

• In-house training opportunities (e.g., English, Excel courses).

• Extensive health management services, including ergonomic workplace consultation.

• On-site company restaurant offering fresh, organic meals (smoothies, bowls, salads, soups, vegetarian options).

• Access to an internal fitness studio with various equipment, trainers, weekly classes, and shower facilities.

• Regular company events, including alumni gatherings.

• Subsidized sports and prevention offers through partnerships with OASE Health & Sports Club, FitX, and Gymondo.

• Well-lit, modern office spaces featuring art installations.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours (likely 40 hours per week) with flexible scheduling options and the possibility of working remotely for up to 2 days per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on German market data for this role and experience level. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the on-site amenities like the restaurant and fitness studio, indicates a strong focus on employee well-being and a positive work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company operates in an established industrial sector, indicated by its 100+ years of experience and international presence. This suggests a stable yet dynamic environment where tradition meets innovation. The specific industry is likely related to manufacturing or industrial goods, given the company name and its long history.

Company Size: Friedrich PICARD GmbH & Co. KG is a medium-to-large enterprise, as suggested by its international operations, established history, and comprehensive benefits package. This size offers the stability of a larger organization while retaining the agility and team-centric feel of a growing marketing department.

Founded: Founded over 100 years ago, the company has a deep-rooted history and extensive expertise in its field. This legacy provides a strong foundation for brand development and marketing efforts, offering a rich narrative for visual communication.

Team Structure:

• The marketing team is described as "growing" and "small," implying an entrepreneurial spirit within a larger corporate structure.

• The Graphic Designer/Art Director will likely report to a Marketing Manager or Head of Marketing, playing a central role in the team's creative output.

• Collaboration is expected to be close-knit within the marketing team and cross-functional with departments like product management, sales, and potentially R&D. Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a blend of established experience and dynamic growth, suggesting a culture that values both proven methods and forward-thinking approaches.

• The marketing team's development indicates a focus on building structures, standards, and processes, implying a structured yet adaptable operational methodology.

• The mention of "AI-supported design and production processes" points to an embrace of technological advancements and efficiency-driven workflows.

Company Website: [picard.de]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history combined with its growing marketing team suggests an organization that is evolving and investing in its brand presence. The role is positioned to influence this evolution significantly.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level to Senior Designer/Art Director. It requires independent work, conceptual leadership, and the ability to develop and refine creative processes and standards. The opportunity to actively shape structures and processes indicates potential for growth into a lead creative role or a managerial position within marketing operations.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer/Art Director will likely report to a Marketing Manager or Head of Marketing. They will be a key individual contributor responsible for the visual output of the marketing department and will collaborate closely with other marketing specialists.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the company's brand perception, market communication effectiveness, and overall brand equity. By developing strong visual assets and consistent brand messaging, this position will significantly influence customer engagement, lead generation, and sales enablement efforts. The development of design systems and standards will also contribute to operational efficiency within the marketing department.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like digital campaign design, brand system development, or AI-driven creative tools.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Art Director or Creative Lead role, managing junior designers or external creative resources and taking on more strategic brand direction.

• Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to further optimize creative workflows, implement new design technologies, or build out the company's design system.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain broader experience by collaborating on projects with product development, sales strategy, and international marketing teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "actively shaping structures, standards, and processes" and "contributing to the further development of our marketing team" suggests that this role is not just about design execution but also about building the operational foundation for creative output. This offers significant growth potential for ambitious candidates.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a hybrid work model, combining the benefits of an office environment with remote flexibility. The office is described as modern, bright, and featuring art installations, suggesting a stimulating and aesthetically pleasing workspace.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at the company headquarters in Bochum, Germany (44805). This location provides access to amenities like a company restaurant and fitness studio.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model allows for 3 days of in-office work, fostering in-person collaboration, team building, and access to company resources.

• The office environment is designed to be modern and inspiring, with natural light and artistic elements, conducive to creative work.

• Access to state-of-the-art IT equipment and potentially specialized design software and hardware is expected.

• The presence of an internal fitness studio and company restaurant promotes a healthy and convenient work-life balance for those on-site.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours with flexible scheduling options are available, enabling employees to balance professional responsibilities with personal needs effectively. This flexibility is crucial for creative roles that may require focused work periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid setup and focus on a modern, well-equipped office indicate a company that values employee comfort and productivity, aligning with typical expectations for creative roles in today's market.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and portfolio by the recruiting team (Jessica Lehn). Focus on demonstrating relevant experience and creative output.

• First Interview: Likely a conversation with the hiring manager (e.g., Head of Marketing) to discuss your background, experience, and suitability for the role. Be prepared to discuss your approach to brand development and campaign conceptualization.

• Portfolio Presentation/Creative Task: A key stage will involve presenting your portfolio. You may be asked to walk through specific projects, explaining your creative process, strategic rationale, and the impact of your work. A practical design task or case study related to brand assets or campaign concepts might also be assigned.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet other marketing team members to assess collaboration style and cultural alignment. Discussions may revolve around teamwork, idea generation, and adapting to a growing team environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with higher management to confirm fit and discuss long-term contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase campaign conceptualization, brand asset development, and consistent visual communication.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your creative process, the challenges faced, your solutions, and the measurable outcomes or impact. Use visuals effectively to demonstrate your design skills.

• Highlight Systems Thinking: If you have experience developing design systems, templates, or standards, showcase these explicitly. Explain the benefits they brought in terms of efficiency and consistency.

• Showcase Adaptability: Include examples across different mediums (digital, print) and demonstrate your ability to adapt your style while maintaining brand integrity. If you have experience with AI tools, integrate examples of their application.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. Prepare a concise verbal presentation for interview discussions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Brand Analysis: Be prepared to analyze PICARD's current brand and suggest potential creative directions or improvements for their visual communication.

• Concept Development: Practice brainstorming and outlining creative concepts for hypothetical marketing campaigns or brand assets.

• Process Optimization: Think about how you would approach developing or refining design standards, templates, or workflows for a growing marketing team.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with Adobe Creative Suite and any familiarity with AI design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to heavily emphasize portfolio presentation and practical creative problem-solving. Candidates should prepare to articulate not just their design skills but also their strategic thinking and process-oriented approach, especially concerning design systems and AI integration.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency expected in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Experience with After Effects and Premiere Pro for motion graphics and video editing would be a significant advantage.

• Design Systems/Templating Tools: Experience with tools or methodologies for creating and managing design systems, style guides, and reusable templates (e.g., within Adobe CC, or potentially Figma/Sketch if used).

• AI Design Tools: An interest and ideally some experience with AI-assisted design tools (e.g., Adobe Firefly, Midjourney, DALL-E) for ideation or asset generation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., social media performance, click-through rates on digital assets) is beneficial. Familiarity with analytics platforms like Google Analytics or social media insights dashboards could be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Primarily for understanding how marketing collateral is used by sales and marketing teams. Familiarity with CRM systems (like Salesforce, HubSpot) or marketing automation platforms (like HubSpot, Marketo) is helpful for context but not a core requirement for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of AI tools indicates a desire for a candidate who is forward-thinking and willing to explore new technologies to enhance creative output and efficiency. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A strong commitment to high-quality design, attention to detail, and a professional aesthetic that reflects the company's long-standing reputation.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and enhancing the visual identity of an established international brand through consistent and compelling design.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Openness to new technologies, creative approaches, and evolving design trends, particularly AI-assisted workflows.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A proactive, supportive, and idea-sharing approach within a growing marketing team, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Efficiency & Process Orientation: Developing and implementing effective design standards, templates, and workflows to optimize creative production.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with marketing colleagues, sales teams, and potentially product development to ensure design aligns with business objectives and user needs.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to foster continuous improvement and creative development.

• Proactive Contribution: Actively participating in team discussions, sharing insights, and contributing to the strategic direction of the marketing department's visual communication.

• External Partnership Management: Effectively communicating with and managing external agencies and creative partners to achieve project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values likely blend the stability and quality of a long-established business with the dynamism of a growing team embracing modern tools and collaborative practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Evolving the visual identity of a 100-year-old brand while incorporating contemporary design trends and AI technologies.

• Establishing New Standards: Developing and implementing robust design systems and workflows for a growing marketing team, requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Ensuring design effectively supports diverse departmental needs (e.g., sales collateral, digital campaigns, internal communications) and managing stakeholder expectations.

• Rapid Technological Adoption: Staying current with and integrating new AI design tools and workflows into established creative processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Opportunities to hone skills in specific areas of graphic design, art direction, or motion graphics.

• Strategic Brand Development: Gaining experience in shaping the long-term visual strategy of an international brand.

• Process & Systems Design: Developing expertise in creating and managing design systems and optimizing creative workflows.

• AI in Design: Becoming proficient in leveraging AI tools for creative ideation, asset generation, and production efficiency.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior team members as the marketing department grows, or to be mentored by senior leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a unique opportunity to blend established brand principles with cutting-edge creative technologies and process development, offering substantial professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a comprehensive brand identity or a major marketing campaign from concept to execution. How do you ensure consistency across all touchpoints?"

• "How would you approach developing or refining design systems and templates for a growing marketing team to improve efficiency and maintain brand integrity?"

• "What is your experience with AI-assisted design tools? How do you see them fitting into a creative workflow, and what are their potential benefits and limitations?"

• "Walk us through a project where you had to balance creative vision with practical constraints (e.g., budget, timeline, brand guidelines). What was your approach and the outcome?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Friedrich PICARD, given our long history and international presence? How do you see your creative contributions aligning with our brand values?"

• "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a collaborative and idea-generating atmosphere?"

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and technologies, and how do you incorporate them into your work?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose 3-5 projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in campaign conceptualization, brand asset development, and process optimization (e.g., design systems).

• Narrative Arc: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your creative solution, the tools and processes used (including any AI tools), and the measurable impact or success.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality visuals to showcase your design work. Explain your design choices and their strategic rationale.

• Process Demonstration: Highlight instances where you developed or utilized design systems, templates, or standardized workflows to enhance efficiency and consistency.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a combination of strong creative talent, strategic thinking, process-oriented skills, and an adaptable mindset, particularly regarding new technologies like AI.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer / Art Director position:

• Submit your application via the provided link to the PICARD applicant portal.

• Tailor your Resume: Emphasize your 3-5 years of relevant experience, highlighting achievements in campaign conceptualization, brand asset development, and any experience with design systems or process optimization. Use keywords like "Art Direction," "Brand Management," "Adobe Creative Suite," and "AI-assisted design."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest, most relevant work. Prepare a concise presentation that showcases your creative process, strategic thinking, and ability to maintain brand consistency. Include examples of digital and print work, and any experience with AI tools or design systems.

• Prepare for the Interview: Research Friedrich PICARD's current brand presence and marketing efforts. Practice articulating your creative process and how you would contribute to their visual communication strategy, particularly in relation to developing standards and workflows. Be ready to discuss your experience with AI in design.

• Highlight Cultural Fit: Emphasize your collaborative spirit, your eagerness to contribute to a growing team, and your adaptability to new tools and workflows.

⚠️ 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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