Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Costello Medical

Location: London, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: 2026-05-28

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Up to 3 days in office per week)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive creative projects within the healthcare sector, from initial concept through to full production, with significant autonomy.

• Develop visually compelling content including infographics, event materials, and potentially motion graphics, digital assets, animations, and eLearning modules.

• Collaborate closely with project managers, clients, and fellow designers to define project scope, strategic approach, and technical requirements.

• Ensure the highest standards of quality, timeliness, and budget adherence for all design deliverables, contributing to exceptional client service.

• Contribute to both commercial projects and pro bono work for charities and public sector organizations, aligning with the company's mission to make a difference in healthcare.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer, indicated by the 2-5 years of experience and the expectation of handling projects from concept to completion with autonomy. The emphasis on the healthcare sector and data visualization suggests a need for designers who can translate complex scientific information into accessible visual formats.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and produce a wide range of visually engaging materials, including infographics, posters, event collateral, and presentations for both internal stakeholders and external clients in the healthcare industry.

• Engage in early-stage project collaboration with creative colleagues, project managers, and clients to establish design objectives, scope, and strategic direction.

• Provide technical design insight and guidance, ensuring all creative output adheres to brand guidelines and project specifications.

• Manage multiple creative projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines and budget constraints in a dynamic, fast-paced agency environment.

• Maintain meticulous attention to detail throughout all stages of the design process, from initial brief to final delivery, ensuring accuracy and polish.

• Actively participate in internal and external meetings, confidently presenting design concepts, work, and technical recommendations to diverse audiences.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and workflows, fostering innovation and efficiency within the Creative team.

• Support the development and execution of motion graphics, animation, video editing, and eLearning modules, depending on individual skillsets and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and client-facing collaboration. The emphasis on "developing engaging content" and "strong collaboration" points to a designer who is not only skilled in execution but also in strategic thinking and teamwork. The inclusion of pro bono work suggests a company culture that values social impact.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Proven experience working within an agency or commercial environment, demonstrating an understanding of client-service dynamics and project delivery workflows.

Required Skills:

• Extensive proficiency in Adobe InDesign for layout and print design.

• Advanced skills in Adobe Illustrator for vector graphics and illustration.

• Familiarity with the broader Adobe Creative Cloud suite, including Photoshop and potentially After Effects or Premiere Pro.

• Demonstrated ability to generate, execute, and oversee a variety of creative concepts from ideation to final product.

• Strong problem-solving mindset with the capacity for innovative and "outside-the-box" thinking.

• Excellent attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and quality in all design outputs.

• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with proven ability to manage conflicting demands and adapt to changing deadlines.

• Strong communication skills, essential for building robust working relationships with internal teams and external clients.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion graphics and animation software (e.g., Adobe After Effects).

• Skills in video editing and production.

• Experience designing interactive materials for exhibitions or digital platforms.

• Knowledge or experience in creating eLearning modules.

• Familiarity with data visualization best practices and tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "highly innovative portfolio" alongside a degree underscores the importance of practical creative output and conceptual thinking. The preference for agency or commercial experience suggests a need for candidates who can handle client briefs and fast-paced project cycles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A highly innovative and diverse portfolio showcasing a range of creative design projects, demonstrating conceptual thinking, aesthetic quality, and technical execution.

• The portfolio should include examples of infographics, event materials, brand development, and potentially digital or motion graphics work.

• Evidence of translating complex information (especially scientific or healthcare-related) into clear and compelling visual narratives.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate the design process from brief to final delivery, highlighting how project scope, strategic approach, and technical queries were managed.

• Showcase examples of how design projects were managed to ensure timely completion, adherence to budget, and maintenance of high-quality standards.

• Demonstrate experience in collaborating with project managers and clients, detailing communication strategies and problem-solving approaches during project lifecycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role, serving as the primary evidence of a candidate's creative capabilities, technical proficiency, and ability to translate complex briefs into impactful visual designs. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their portfolio and explain their decision-making process for each piece.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Outside London: £28,000 to £33,000 per annum (depending on previous experience)

• In London: £28,860 to £33,000 per annum (depending on previous experience)

Benefits:

• Discretionary profit share bonuses paid twice per year.

• Hybrid and flexible working options, allowing up to 50% of time to be worked remotely after probation.

• Generous holiday allowance: 25 days annual leave plus bank and public holidays.

• Holiday buy and sell scheme.

• Private Medical Insurance with a "medical history disregard" basis.

• Critical Illness Cover.

• Income Protection.

• Life Assurance.

• Full funding for external training and paid study leave.

• Flexible benefits scheme offering cash payments, additional pension contributions, and more.

Working Hours:

• Full-time role, typically around 40 hours per week.

• Flexible working hours are offered, with hybrid working arrangements in place. During the probationary period (first 6 months), remote work is limited to 1 day per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is clearly defined and tiered for London vs. outside London, reflecting cost of living differences. The comprehensive benefits package, including profit share, extensive health coverage, and professional development support, indicates a strong commitment to employee well-being and growth. The hybrid policy is clearly outlined with specific probation period stipulations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare Communications, Market Access, Health Economic and Outcomes Research (HEOR).

Company Size: Costello Medical is a rapidly growing global agency. While the exact number of employees isn't specified in this listing, their B Corp accreditation and awards (Top 100 Best Companies to Work For, Boston Globe’s Top Places to Work) suggest a significant and well-established organization committed to employee well-being and ethical practices.

Founded: Costello Medical has a history of recognition since 2017 and achieved B Corporation accreditation in 2022, indicating a stable and growth-oriented company with a strong ethical foundation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Creative team, working alongside other designers, project managers, and potentially specialists in areas like data visualization.

• Collaboration is key, with frequent interaction with internal teams and external clients.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data visualization and enhancing the communication of scientific content.

• Commitment to supporting pro bono work for charities and the public sector, reflecting a mission-driven approach.

• Data-driven decision-making and a focus on delivering exceptional service are core to their operations.

• Creative production follows a project lifecycle from concept to full production, with an emphasis on quality and client satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Costello Medical presents itself as a reputable, award-winning, and mission-driven organization. The company culture appears to value creativity, collaboration, professional development, and social responsibility, particularly within the healthcare domain. Their B Corp status highlights a commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience, indicating a mid-level position. The scope includes handling projects from concept to completion, offering significant autonomy, and potentially contributing to more advanced areas like motion graphics.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Creative Lead or Manager within the Creative team. They will work closely with Project Managers for client projects and collaborate across various internal departments.

Operations Impact: As a Graphic Designer, the impact is primarily on the clarity, engagement, and effectiveness of communication for healthcare clients and the company itself. High-quality design directly influences client perception, scientific understanding, and the overall success of communication campaigns and market access strategies. The role contributes to the company's reputation for excellence in medical communications.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in areas like data visualization, motion graphics, animation, or eLearning design through project work and funded training.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop stronger client-facing skills and build relationships, potentially leading to more senior client-handling roles.

• Project Management Exposure: Gain experience in project lifecycle management, potentially leading to roles with more project oversight.

• Leadership Potential: With experience, there could be pathways to Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, or Creative Team Lead positions within the agency.

• Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge in healthcare communications, a valuable niche within the creative industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on funded training and one-to-one mentorship suggests a structured approach to employee development. Growth is likely to be driven by acquiring new technical skills, deepening industry knowledge, and demonstrating strong client service and project execution capabilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Costello Medical offers a hybrid working model, combining office-based collaboration with remote flexibility. The company values face-to-face interaction for team cohesion and culture.

Office Location(s): Global Headquarters in Cambridge, as well as offices in London, Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh. This specific role is available in London.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment likely fosters collaboration, with opportunities to interact with a diverse range of creative professionals, project managers, and subject matter experts.

• Access to necessary design software and technology within the office.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, with flexible working hours.

• Hybrid model: Up to 50% remote work after probation (1 day/week during probation). This allows for a balance between structured office time and personal flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid policy is a key feature, designed to balance the benefits of in-office collaboration and culture with the advantages of remote work for work-life balance. Candidates should be comfortable with a structured hybrid arrangement and understand the importance the company places on in-office presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit CV, cover letter (explaining suitability and interest with examples), and a PDF portfolio or online portfolio link.

• Video Interview: A self-recorded video interview assessed by the Talent Acquisition team.

• Assessment: An online assessment to be completed in the candidate's own time.

• Final Interview & Portfolio Review: An in-person or virtual interview with senior members of the Creative team, which includes a dedicated portfolio review.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select your strongest, most relevant work, showcasing diversity in style and application (infographics, event materials, branding, digital). Prioritize healthcare-related or complex data visualization examples if available.

• Showcase Process: For each project, be prepared to discuss your thought process, initial concepts, challenges encountered, solutions, and the final outcome. Explain your design decisions.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased engagement by X%," "successfully communicated complex data"). If quantitative data isn't available, focus on qualitative impact and client feedback.

• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and other Creative Cloud tools.

• Company Alignment: Demonstrate an understanding of Costello Medical's work in healthcare communications and their mission. Tailor your presentation to resonate with their focus on data visualization and scientific communication.

Challenge Preparation:

• The assessment may involve a design challenge to evaluate your creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical execution under timed conditions.

• Be prepared to demonstrate your ability to interpret a brief, generate concepts, and produce a polished design output within a given timeframe.

• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The multi-stage interview process, including a video interview, assessment, and a final interview with a portfolio review, is thorough. Candidates must be well-prepared to present their work effectively, articulate their design thinking, and demonstrate their suitability for the healthcare communications sector. The emphasis on not relying solely on AI for application materials is a crucial point for applicants.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe InDesign: Essential for layout, print design, and creating multi-page documents like reports and brochures.

• Adobe Illustrator: Critical for creating vector graphics, logos, icons, and detailed illustrations.

• Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: Proficiency across various applications is expected. This may include:

  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing and manipulation.
  • Adobe After Effects: For motion graphics and animation (preferred skill).
  • Adobe Premiere Pro: For video editing (preferred skill).

• Microsoft Office Suite: Likely used for presentations (PowerPoint), document creation, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the designer's primary tools, but understanding how design assets are managed and utilized within marketing or client management systems could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are heavily focused on the Adobe Creative Suite, with specific emphasis on InDesign and Illustrator. The "preferred skills" indicate areas where candidates can differentiate themselves, particularly in motion graphics and digital/video content creation, which are increasingly important in medical communications.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Creativity: A drive to contribute innovative ideas and produce unique design solutions.

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality work with meticulous attention to detail.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues, project managers, and clients to achieve shared goals.

• Client Focus & Service: Providing exceptional service and building strong, sustainable working relationships.

• Data Visualization & Scientific Communication: A passion for making complex scientific information accessible and engaging through design.

• Mission-Driven Impact: Contributing to projects that make a meaningful difference in healthcare, including pro bono work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with project managers, other designers, and subject matter experts to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Open Communication: Clear communication of project requirements, technical queries, and design rationale.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that likely embraces constructive feedback for continuous improvement of designs and processes.

• Proactive Engagement: Taking initiative in concept development and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Costello Medical's values emphasize a blend of professional excellence, collaborative spirit, and a genuine desire to impact healthcare. The B Corp accreditation reinforces a commitment to ethical practices and social responsibility, which likely permeates the team culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Data: Effectively visualizing intricate scientific and healthcare data in a clear, accurate, and engaging manner is a primary challenge.

• Balancing Client Needs and Creative Vision: Navigating client feedback and commercial objectives while maintaining high creative standards.

• Pace and Volume: Managing multiple projects with varying deadlines in a fast-paced agency environment.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with evolving design software and digital trends in medical communications.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Funded External Training: Access to courses and certifications to enhance technical skills (e.g., advanced Adobe software, motion graphics, data visualization).

• One-to-One Mentorship: Guidance from experienced colleagues on technical aspects, project management, and client communication.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide range of client types and project scopes within the healthcare sector.

• Pro Bono Work: Opportunities to contribute creative skills to meaningful causes, offering a different kind of professional fulfillment.

• Career Progression: Potential to move into Senior Designer, Art Director, or specialized creative roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a creative role in a specialized agency, requiring both technical prowess and strong interpersonal skills. The growth opportunities are robust, supported by the company's investment in employee development and exposure to varied, impactful work.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through a complex project from your portfolio, explaining your conceptualization, design decisions, challenges, and how you ensured clarity for a scientific audience."

• Client Collaboration: "Describe a time you had to manage difficult client feedback. How did you incorporate it while maintaining the integrity of your design?"

• Problem-Solving: "How would you approach designing an infographic for a new medical treatment with multiple complex data points and a tight deadline?"

• Industry Understanding: "What excites you about working in healthcare communications? How do you see design contributing to better health outcomes?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Costello Medical's work, particularly in data visualization and healthcare communications?"

• "How do you see yourself fitting into our collaborative and mission-driven culture?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronologically. Start with your strongest, most relevant pieces.

• Narrative: For each project, prepare a concise story: the brief, your approach, key design choices, challenges, and the outcome. Use visuals to support your narrative.

• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques used.

• Relevance: Emphasize work that demonstrates your ability to handle complex information, data visualization, and client briefs, especially within or similar to the healthcare sector.

• Engagement: Be enthusiastic, confident, and prepared to answer questions about your work and creative process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for not just design skill, but also strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, strong communication, and a cultural fit with Costello Medical's values. Preparation should focus on articulating your process and impact, not just showing pretty pictures.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your CV and a cover letter via the online application form. In your cover letter, clearly articulate why you are suited for the role and why you want to join Costello Medical, providing specific examples to support your claims.

• Prepare a PDF portfolio or ensure your online portfolio link is readily accessible and well-organized. It should showcase your best work, particularly relevant to the healthcare sector and data visualization.

• For the self-recorded video interview, practice your introduction and be ready to briefly highlight your key qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

• Thoroughly research Costello Medical, their work in medical communications, their clients, and their company culture. Understand their mission and values.

• Be prepared for a design assessment and a final interview that includes a portfolio review. Practice walking through your portfolio and explaining your design decisions concisely and confidently.

⚠️ 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.