Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: ICF

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Design / Marketing Operations

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute high-quality visual designs for a variety of communication campaigns targeting European institutions and their stakeholders.

• Create engaging digital assets for web and social media, including banners, illustrations, icons, and motion graphics, ensuring brand consistency and accessibility.

• Translate complex data and information into clear, compelling infographics and visual narratives to enhance understanding and engagement.

• Collaborate closely with project teams and the Creative Team to conceptualize and deliver innovative visual solutions that align with communication objectives.

• Maintain and enforce brand identity across all print and digital materials, ensuring a cohesive and professional visual presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job title is "Graphic Designer," the context of working for "ICF Next creates and implements communication campaigns and services for European institutions" and the emphasis on translating complex information into clear visual communications strongly suggests a role with significant alignment to Marketing Operations or a dedicated GTM (Go-To-Market) design function. The responsibilities lean towards supporting strategic communication objectives rather than purely aesthetic design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design a wide range of digital assets for web and social media platforms, including banners, illustrations, icons, infographics, motion graphics, and interactive elements, adhering to platform specifications and campaign goals.

• Produce print materials such as brochures, posters, fact sheets, goodies, and leaflets, ensuring high-quality production standards and brand alignment.

• Conceptualize, design, and deliver impactful infographics by gathering, simplifying, and interpreting data, managing the process from initial concept to final visualization.

• Edit and optimize photos and images to enhance visual quality for print products, websites, and social media, ensuring they meet design requirements and brand guidelines.

• Collaborate with the Creative Team on developing campaign visuals and innovative creative concepts, contributing to the overall artistic direction.

• Support the organization and visual communication of internal and external events through the creation of relevant design materials.

• Ensure strict consistency of visual identity across all communication materials, reinforcing brand recognition and professionalism.

• Monitor current design and content trends, proactively proposing creative ideas and improvements to enhance visual communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can not only execute but also strategize and innovate, particularly in data visualization and campaign support for complex clients like European institutions. This implies a need for understanding communication objectives and target audiences.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. Equivalent practical experience may be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 2-5 years of demonstrated experience in graphic design, with a proven track record of creating high-quality visual materials for both print and digital media.

Required Skills:

• Strong hands-on experience with industry-standard design software, specifically Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Proficiency in using online design tools such as Canva for efficient creation of high-quality visuals and adaptable templates.

• High level of creativity and innovative design skills, with the ability to generate novel visual concepts.

• Familiarity with user-centred design principles and methodologies to ensure designs are intuitive and effective for target audiences.

• Professional proficiency in English, encompassing understanding, speaking, and writing for effective communication.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing for European institutions or similar governmental/public sector organizations.

• Proficiency in motion graphics software (e.g., After Effects) for creating dynamic visual content.

• Experience with data visualization tools or techniques beyond basic infographic creation.

• Intermediate to advanced level of French language proficiency for enhanced collaboration and client interaction.

• A proactive attitude with a passion for understanding and improving client business objectives through design.

• Eagerness to learn new skills and share knowledge within a team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "translating complex information into clear, engaging visual communications" and "data visualization" suggests that candidates with experience in information design or data-driven storytelling will be highly valued. The "eager to learn and to share knowledge" point indicates a collaborative team environment where continuous improvement is encouraged.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of projects demonstrating proficiency in both print and digital design, including examples of social media graphics, brochures, and infographics.

• Include case studies that highlight your process for translating complex information or data into clear, engaging visual communications, detailing the problem, your approach, and the outcome.

• Feature examples of consistent brand identity application across multiple touchpoints, illustrating your ability to maintain visual coherence.

• Present examples of digital assets designed for web and social media, demonstrating an understanding of platform-specific requirements and user engagement strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Clearly articulate your design process, from initial brief and conceptualization through to final asset delivery and revisions, emphasizing your workflow for managing projects efficiently.

• Detail how you approach data interpretation and simplification for infographic design, including any research or data gathering methods used.

• Explain your strategy for ensuring brand consistency and accessibility in all design outputs.

• Describe how you collaborate with project teams, clients, or stakeholders throughout the design lifecycle, including feedback incorporation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role supporting European institutions, a portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of regulatory requirements, accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG), and the ability to convey complex, often policy-related information clearly will be a significant advantage. The emphasis on "online design tools (e.g. Canva)" suggests a need for efficiency and templating, which should be reflected in the portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the location (Brussels, Belgium), the experience level (2-5 years), and the nature of the role supporting European institutions, a competitive salary range is estimated.

• Estimated Salary Range: €40,000 - €55,000 per year.

• Explanation: This estimate is derived from research of graphic designer salaries in Brussels, Belgium, for mid-level professionals within consultancy or agency environments working on public sector or institutional projects. Factors considered include the cost of living in Brussels, typical salary benchmarks for Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, and the demand for specialized design skills in communication campaign execution.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Generous paid time off (vacation days, public holidays).

• Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and access to design conferences.

• Contribution to a retirement savings plan.

• Potential for flexible working arrangements (subject to team and project needs).

• Exposure to high-profile projects for European institutions, offering significant career development.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are likely 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time position. While the role is primarily on-site, there may be occasional flexibility or the need for extended hours depending on project deadlines and campaign launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AI's estimation of 40 working hours per week is a standard assumption for full-time roles. The salary range is an informed estimate based on market data for graphic designers in Brussels with 2-5 years of experience, considering the industry (consulting for institutions). Benefits are typical for international organizations and European-based roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting and Technology Services, with a strong focus on Public Sector and Communications for European Institutions. ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider that helps clients solve complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. ICF Next specifically focuses on communication campaigns and services.

Company Size: ICF is a large global organization. The specific team for ICF Next in Brussels is likely to be a specialized unit within this larger structure, potentially ranging from a few dozen to over a hundred employees in the Brussels office, with the global company employing thousands. This size offers both the stability of a large corporation and the agility of a specialized division.

Founded: ICF was founded in 1969. This long history signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a robust organizational framework. The founding date suggests a company with established processes and a proven track record.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the ICF Next division, likely within a Creative or Communications team.

• This team probably consists of other designers, communication specialists, project managers, and subject matter experts.

• The reporting structure will likely be to a Creative Director, Design Lead, or a Project Manager overseeing communication campaigns.

Methodology:

• ICF Next likely employs a data-driven approach to communication campaigns, using research and analytics to inform design choices and measure impact.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be crucial for managing multiple projects simultaneously for various clients and campaigns.

• Automation and efficiency practices, potentially leveraging tools like Canva for template-based design, will be important for delivering high volumes of work effectively.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "European institutions" is a key differentiator. This implies a need for cultural awareness, understanding of bureaucratic processes, and adherence to specific communication guidelines and protocols common in such environments. The "Candidate AI Usage Policy" is a notable aspect of their hiring process, emphasizing authenticity.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Graphic Designer. It involves executing design tasks with a degree of autonomy, contributing creative ideas, and collaborating within a team to achieve campaign objectives. It's a step beyond entry-level, requiring independent problem-solving and a solid understanding of design principles and software.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Lead, Design Manager, or a Senior Project Manager within the ICF Next division. This individual will provide direction, feedback, and manage project allocation. Collaboration will extend across various project teams, working with communication specialists, strategists, and account managers.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's impact is directly tied to the effectiveness of communication campaigns. High-quality, clear, and engaging visual assets are crucial for:

• Enhancing public understanding of complex EU policies.

• Driving engagement with campaign messages across digital and print channels.

• Reinforcing the credibility and brand identity of ICF Next and its clients (European institutions).

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific areas like data visualization, motion graphics, or user-centered design for digital platforms.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role, leading design projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing more significantly to creative strategy.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into related fields such as UX/UI design, digital marketing coordination, or campaign management, leveraging design expertise.

• Learning & Development: Access to ICF's global resources for professional development, including specialized design training, workshops on communication strategy, and opportunities to learn about EU policy and communication frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path within ICF, especially in a specialized division like ICF Next, is likely to involve increasing strategic input and client-facing responsibilities. The emphasis on "improving client’s business" suggests that demonstrating business acumen alongside design skills will be key for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as on-site in Brussels, Belgium. ICF likely provides modern office facilities designed to foster collaboration and productivity. This would include well-equipped workstations and meeting spaces.

Office Location(s): Brussels, Belgium (BE75). This location is strategic for working with European institutions, placing the team in close proximity to key EU bodies. Accessibility via public transport is generally good in Brussels.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities for brainstorming sessions and team meetings with colleagues from diverse backgrounds (designers, communication specialists, policy experts).

• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including high-performance computers with Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant software, will be provided.

• Regular interaction with the Creative Team and project teams will be a core part of the daily work, fostering a dynamic and interactive environment.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, around 40 hours per week. While on-site presence is required, there might be some flexibility depending on project needs and team agreements, but the core expectation is consistent office attendance for collaboration and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Brussels is crucial for fostering close collaboration with European institutions and internal project teams. The environment is expected to be professional and dynamic, reflecting the fast-paced nature of communication campaigns for major clients.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for relevant experience, skills, and creative output.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, focusing on design process, problem-solving, and ability to translate complex information visually. This may involve a practical design exercise or a presentation of past work.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions assessing creativity, collaboration, proactivity, and ability to work with complex clients and data. Questions might explore how candidates handle feedback, manage deadlines, and stay updated on design trends.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and managers to assess alignment with ICF's values and the team's collaborative style.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly explain your thought process, the problem you were solving, your design choices, and the outcome. This is especially important for infographic and data visualization projects.

• Highlight Data Interpretation: If possible, include examples where you successfully simplified complex data into understandable visuals. Detail your approach to data analysis and visualization.

• Demonstrate Brand Consistency: Show how you've applied visual identity guidelines across different media.

• Include Digital & Print Examples: Ensure your portfolio covers the breadth of responsibilities mentioned in the job description.

• Tailor to ICF Next: Emphasize projects that align with communication campaigns, public sector clients, or complex information design. Mention any experience with EU institutions if applicable.

• Keep it Concise and Professional: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually polished.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design challenge that might involve creating an infographic or a social media asset based on a provided brief, simulating real project tasks.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, focusing on how your choices support communication objectives and target audiences.

• Prepare to discuss trends in graphic design, data visualization, and digital communication, particularly as they relate to public sector or institutional communication.

• Research ICF and ICF Next's work, especially their campaigns for European institutions, to understand their style and objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of an AI Usage Policy is a critical point. Candidates must be prepared for an interview process that strictly evaluates their own skills and knowledge, without AI assistance. This means practicing responses and being ready to explain thought processes organically.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for creating and editing a wide range of digital and print assets.

• Canva: Experience with online design tools like Canva is required for creating high-quality visuals and adaptable templates efficiently.

• Motion Graphics Software: While not explicitly required, experience with tools like Adobe After Effects would be a significant advantage for creating dynamic visual content.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tool experience is explicitly required for this design role. The focus is on creative execution and visual communication strategy. However, understanding how designs are deployed through marketing automation platforms or content management systems could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of both Adobe Creative Suite and Canva highlights a need for a designer who can handle both high-end, complex design work and efficient, template-driven content creation. This dual capability is key for large-scale communication campaigns.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Client Service: A commitment to delivering high-quality work that meets the specific needs and standards of European institutions.

• Data-Driven Communication: Utilizing data and insights to inform design decisions and measure the effectiveness of visual communications.

• Innovation and Creativity: Proactively seeking new and engaging ways to communicate complex messages through design.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared campaign goals.

• Continuous Learning: Staying abreast of design trends, technologies, and the evolving landscape of communication for public institutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to work seamlessly with communication strategists, content writers, project managers, and account teams to ensure design aligns with overall campaign objectives.

• Feedback-Rich Environment: A culture that encourages constructive feedback exchange to refine designs and improve outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Openness to sharing design techniques, trends, and best practices within the team to elevate collective skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "improving client’s business" and a passion for it indicates a culture that values impact and client success. For a designer, this translates to understanding how their work contributes to campaign goals and client objectives, not just aesthetic appeal.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Information: Consistently simplifying intricate policy details or data into clear, accessible, and engaging visuals for diverse audiences.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring strict adherence to brand guidelines across numerous projects and platforms for various European institutions.

• Meeting High Standards: Delivering work that meets the rigorous quality and compliance expectations of European institutions.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Keeping pace with rapid changes in digital design, social media platforms, and communication technologies while maintaining a focus on core design principles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Workshops: Access to training on advanced infographic design, data visualization techniques, motion graphics, and UX/UI principles.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend relevant design and communication conferences (potentially focusing on public sector communication or digital strategy).

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior designers or art directors within ICF to hone creative skills and career path.

• Exposure to EU Communication Landscape: Gaining in-depth understanding of how communication works within and for European institutions, a unique specialization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the unique environment of working with European institutions, requiring a blend of creative skill, analytical thinking, and an understanding of institutional communication needs. Growth opportunities are framed around specialization within a niche but impactful field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing an infographic that explains a complex policy or dataset. What steps do you take from initial brief to final execution?" (Focus on data interpretation, simplification, and visual storytelling.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple digital and print assets for a large campaign, especially when working with different stakeholders?" (Highlight your understanding of brand guidelines and systematic approach.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for ICF Next and specifically on communication campaigns for European institutions?" (Show research into ICF, ICF Next, and the EU context.)

• "How do you stay updated on design trends, and how do you incorporate them into your work while maintaining brand integrity?" (Assess proactivity and balance of innovation with adherence.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project presented, clearly articulate the brief, your design process, the challenges you faced, your solutions, and the final impact.

• Emphasize Data Visualization: If you have infographic examples, walk through how you interpreted the data and made design choices to enhance clarity and engagement.

• Showcase Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss how you used specific tools (Adobe Suite, Canva) to achieve your design goals efficiently.

• Highlight Client-Centricity: Frame your work in terms of how it met client objectives and communicated effectively to the target audience. For ICF, this means emphasizing clarity for citizens and stakeholders of EU policies.

• Be Prepared for Live Design Exercises: Have a general understanding of how you might approach a quick design task or problem-solving scenario.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given ICF's AI policy, interview preparation should focus on authentic self-expression and deep understanding of design principles and processes. Practicing articulating these concepts clearly and confidently without AI assistance is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on ICF's career portal.

• Tailor Your Resume and Portfolio: Customize your resume to highlight experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, infographic design, and digital/print asset creation. Ensure your portfolio prominently features relevant work, especially projects involving complex information or data visualization.

• Prepare Your Portfolio Walkthrough: Be ready to present and discuss your portfolio during interviews, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and how your work aligns with ICF Next's mission for European institutions.

• Research ICF and ICF Next: Understand the company's mission, values, and recent campaigns, particularly those involving EU institutions, to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare thoughtful answers to behavioral and technical questions, emphasizing your creativity, technical skills, collaboration abilities, and passion for design that drives communication.

⚠️ 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.