Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Creative Graphic Designer

Company: IMG

Location: London, UK

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-07-24

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive end-to-end creative development, encompassing ideation, concept development, and final delivery of innovative graphics and digital campaigns.

• Support content and marketing teams by producing engaging designs that maintain brand continuity across diverse amateur brands within the sports industry.

• Collaborate closely with content teams and account managers to conceptualize and execute visually compelling assets for digital platforms and marketing initiatives.

• Bring a 'producer mindset' to explore and implement creative strategies that enhance audience engagement and drive unique visual storytelling.

• Ensure all creative outputs align with project briefs, brand guidelines, and reasonable timelines, while proactively managing upwards and communicating effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer, requiring a blend of creative execution and collaborative project management. The emphasis on "end-to-end creative development" and a "producer mindset" suggests a need for proactive ownership and problem-solving beyond basic design tasks. The integration with a sports marketing agency implies a fast-paced environment with a focus on brand consistency and engaging visual content for a sports audience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the entire creative development lifecycle, from initial concept ideation and brainstorming sessions to the final production and delivery of design assets.

• Develop innovative ideas and "hygiene graphics" for digital campaigns, branding initiatives, and general content across various amateur sports brands.

• Ideate and conceptualize creative solutions in close collaboration with the content team and account managers, ensuring alignment with client objectives and marketing strategies.

• Adopt a "producer mindset" to explore and implement creative approaches that effectively drive audience engagement and deliver impactful visual narratives.

• Produce high-quality, engaging designs, graphic elements, and visual treatments that meet project specifications and brand standards.

• Work collaboratively with the content team to ensure briefs are clearly understood, concise, and aligned with strategic goals, while also establishing and adhering to realistic timelines for project completion.

• Maintain effective communication with project leads and senior stakeholders, demonstrating the ability to manage upwards and present creative concepts persuasively.

• Ensure consistent brand continuity and visual identity across all content and design visuals for the company's diverse range of amateur brands.

• Provide support to the broader marketing and brand functions, contributing design expertise and creative input as needed.

• Be prepared to work occasional weekends and extended hours, particularly during major events like The Open and AIG Women's Open, requiring full availability throughout those periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can operate independently from concept to completion while also being a strong team player. The explicit mention of "producer mindset" and "managing upwards" indicates expectations for initiative, strategic thinking, and effective communication beyond typical design tasks. The requirement for availability during major sporting events underscores the dynamic and demanding nature of the role within a sports marketing context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Design or a related field is required; equivalent practical experience will also be considered. Experience:

• 2-5 years of professional graphic design experience, with a strong portfolio showcasing creativity and proficiency.

• Experience or demonstrated interest in the sports industry and its unique design trends is highly desirable.

• Familiarity with live graphics design processes and implementation within a broadcast or event context is a plus. Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, and Illustrator.

• Ability to communicate design ideas clearly and persuasively, both visually and verbally, for internal and external presentations.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to developing creative solutions.

• Excellent time management abilities to effectively manage conflicting deadlines and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

• High attention to detail, ensuring the delivery of polished, high-quality creative outputs that adhere to brand standards.

• Self-motivated with the initiative to drive creative thinking and explore innovative design concepts.

• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment while also working independently on various design aspects.

• Open-mindedness and receptiveness to constructive feedback to refine designs and improve creative outcomes.

• Understanding of how to work with templates and style guides to maintain consistency and deliver high-quality creative assets. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in PowerPoint for presentations and internal communications.

• Basic ability and interest in motion design to create dynamic visual elements.

• Basic ability and interest in editing short-form vertical video for social media and digital platforms.

• Working knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and their application in supporting design workflows and delivery.

• Golf-specific knowledge and understanding of its design aesthetics and trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a strong technical foundation in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with crucial soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and self-motivation. The preferred skills point towards a forward-thinking designer who is interested in emerging technologies like AI and motion graphics, and who has a passion for the sports industry, particularly golf.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a high level of creativity and a diverse range of design projects.

• Demonstrated ability to experiment with design concepts and resolve them into authentic, impactful creative outputs.

• Examples of work that clearly articulate the process from initial brief to final delivery, highlighting problem-solving and ideation stages.

• Visuals that illustrate an understanding of brand continuity and the ability to apply style guides and templates effectively across various projects.

• Projects that reflect an ability to develop engaging designs for digital campaigns, branding, and general content. Process Documentation:

• Showcase an understanding of the end-to-end creative development process, from ideation and concept generation through to final delivery.

• Provide examples of how you have collaborated with teams and managed projects to meet deadlines and deliver on briefs.

• Illustrate your approach to maintaining brand consistency and applying design principles across different platforms and client needs.

• Include examples of how you have utilized or explored AI tools to enhance design workflows or creative outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component of this application. It needs to demonstrate not just aesthetic skill but also a structured approach to creative problem-solving, collaboration, and brand management. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process and how they've leveraged tools like Adobe Creative Suite and potentially AI.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (London, UK), experience level (Mid-Level, 2-5 years), and the nature of the role within a prominent sports marketing agency, an estimated annual salary range for a Creative Graphic Designer would be between £35,000 and £50,000 GBP. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific portfolio, negotiation skills, and the exact scope of responsibilities. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Pension scheme contributions.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training courses and access to industry events.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Employee assistance program (EAP) for mental health and well-being support.

• Discounted tickets or merchandise for IMG/TKO events where applicable. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday, totaling 37.5 hours per week.

• Occasional weekend work and extended hours may be required, particularly during peak event periods such as The Open and AIG Women's Open.

• Flexibility may be expected to adapt to business demands and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on typical mid-level graphic designer compensation in London, UK, considering the industry and company prestige. The benefits listed are standard for a full-time role in the UK, with potential additions specific to a sports and entertainment organization. The working hours clearly indicate a need for flexibility due to the event-driven nature of the sports industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports Marketing & Entertainment (specifically, media rights management, content production, brand partnerships, digital services, and events management). IMG is a subsidiary of TKO Group Holdings, Inc., which owns major entities like UFC and WWE.

Company Size: IMG is a large global organization. TKO Group Holdings as a parent company is significant, reaching over 1 billion households globally. This indicates a company with substantial resources and a wide reach.

Founded: IMG was founded in 1960. TKO Group Holdings was formed in 2023 through a merger of WWE and UFC's parent company. This blend of established legacy and recent consolidation suggests a dynamic environment that values both tradition and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The role supports the wider R&A (The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews) content team, indicating a specialized focus within IMG.

• The graphic designer will collaborate with content team members, account managers, and the broader marketing and brand functions.

• Reporting likely involves a Creative Director or Head of Content, with regular interaction with project leads and potentially senior management.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring seamless integration with content strategists, marketers, and event managers. Methodology:

• Emphasis on driving end-to-end creative development, from ideation to delivery.

• Focus on producing innovative ideas and engaging graphics for digital campaigns and branding.

• A "producer mindset" is encouraged, suggesting a pragmatic and efficient approach to creative execution.

• Commitment to maintaining brand continuity and high-quality standards across all visual assets.

• Data-driven insights are likely used to inform creative strategies and measure engagement, though not explicitly stated for this role, it's standard in sports marketing.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely fast-paced, collaborative, and results-oriented, typical of the sports marketing and entertainment industry. The specific team focus on R&A suggests a niche but significant area of IMG's operations. The blend of creative freedom ("producer mindset") and strict brand adherence is a common characteristic of agency-style work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a Mid-Level Graphic Designer (2-5 years of experience). It requires a solid foundation in design principles and software, with the capacity to manage projects independently and contribute creatively to team objectives. The role is not entry-level but also not yet senior management, focusing on execution and creative problem-solving within defined project scopes.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the R&A content team, likely a Creative Lead or Head of Content. They will collaborate closely with content strategists, account managers, and other members of the content production team. Upward communication to project leads and potentially senior stakeholders is expected.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of business process optimization, the Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the operational success of marketing campaigns and brand initiatives. High-quality, engaging visuals are crucial for driving fan engagement, attracting sponsors, and enhancing the perceived value of IMG's clients (e.g., R&A). Effective visual communication supports the sales and partnership teams by creating compelling marketing materials. The designer's ability to maintain brand continuity ensures a cohesive and professional image for IMG and its clients, which is vital for operational integrity.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas such as motion graphics, AI-assisted design, or specialized sports branding.

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading creative aspects of specific campaigns or smaller projects, taking on more responsibility for concept development and execution.

• Client Exposure: Gain experience working with a variety of IMG's clients within the sports sector, broadening industry knowledge.

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities for training in new design software, emerging technologies (like AI in design), and advanced animation or video editing techniques.

• Management Track: With significant experience and demonstrated leadership, potential to move into a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role, managing junior designers and overseeing larger creative projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a graphic designer at IMG involves deepening technical skills, expanding creative responsibilities, and potentially moving into leadership roles. The role's impact is seen through its contribution to the visual effectiveness of marketing and brand activities, which are critical operational components for a sports marketing agency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Chiswick Park, London. This is a modern business park known for its amenities and collaborative workspace design. It suggests a professional, well-equipped office environment.

Office Location(s): Chiswick Park, London, UK. This location offers good transport links and a vibrant working atmosphere.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Chiswick Park is designed to foster collaboration, with shared spaces and amenities that encourage interaction among employees from different companies within the park. The IMG team likely benefits from this dynamic atmosphere.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially newer technologies like AI tools will be available. The role requires adapting to new systems and technology as they are implemented.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the R&A content team, account managers, and other marketing professionals is expected, facilitating a dynamic and communicative work setting.

Work Schedule: The standard schedule is 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. However, the role necessitates flexibility, with potential requirements for working unsocial hours, weekends, and travel for specific events, particularly during peak periods like The Open. This indicates a demanding schedule that requires adaptability to business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at Chiswick Park is likely conducive to a professional and collaborative design role. The emphasis on adapting to new technology and the need for flexibility around event schedules are key aspects of the daily work experience for this position.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and portfolio by the recruitment team to assess basic qualifications and creative output.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely be invited to present their portfolio, discussing their creative process, problem-solving approaches, and ability to meet project requirements. This stage will also assess communication skills and cultural fit.

• Technical/Creative Challenge: A potential design task or case study may be given to evaluate practical design skills, speed, and ability to work within specific constraints or brand guidelines relevant to IMG's clients (e.g., R&A).

• Final Interview: With the hiring manager or senior team members to discuss role expectations, team dynamics, career growth, and confirm suitability.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase creativity, versatility, and a clear understanding of brand and concept development.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the brief, your thought process, design challenges, solutions, and the final outcome. Use visual aids to demonstrate your journey.

• Showcase Sports/Event Work: If you have experience with sports, events, or similar fast-paced client work, prioritize these examples.

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Include examples that clearly show your advanced skills in Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, and Illustrator. If you've used AI or motion design, showcase that.

• Tailor to IMG/R&A: Research IMG's client roster and the R&A's brand. Show work that aligns with their aesthetic, tone, and the types of campaigns they run.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to discuss your design choices, how you handle feedback, and your understanding of brand continuity.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If given a design challenge, carefully read and re-read the brief. Ask clarifying questions if possible.

• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively. Sketch out concepts first before diving into detailed design.

• Brand Alignment: Pay close attention to any brand guidelines or client-specific requirements provided.

• Presentation Readiness: Be prepared to present your solution concisely, explaining your rationale and design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the candidate's portfolio and their ability to articulate their creative process. Preparation should focus on showcasing relevant work, demonstrating technical skills, and understanding the specific needs of IMG and its clients within the sports industry.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Photoshop: Essential for image manipulation, compositing, and detailed raster graphics.
  • InDesign: Crucial for layout design, brochures, digital publications, and documents requiring text and image integration.
  • After Effects: Key for motion graphics, animation, visual effects, and dynamic content creation for digital campaigns.
  • Illustrator: Fundamental for vector graphics, logos, icons, and scalable illustrations.

• PowerPoint: A plus, useful for creating presentations for internal stakeholders and client pitches.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a designer's primary tool, an understanding of how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., click-through rates, view duration) is beneficial. Designers may interact with analytics dashboards to understand campaign performance and inform future creative decisions. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but awareness of how design assets are deployed through marketing automation platforms or managed within CRM systems could be advantageous. Emerging Technologies:

• AI Tools: Working knowledge and interest in AI applications for design (e.g., generative design, AI-assisted editing, content creation) are increasingly preferred.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The emphasis on After Effects and the "plus" for PowerPoint indicates a need for both dynamic visual creation and clear communication of ideas. The mention of AI tools suggests the company is forward-thinking and values designers who are exploring new technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, original, and inspiring design work that pushes boundaries.

• Excellence & Quality: Commitment to high standards in all visual outputs, ensuring polish and professionalism.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues, sharing ideas, and supporting team goals.

• Client Focus: Understanding and delivering on client briefs and objectives, maintaining brand integrity for IMG's partners.

• Adaptability & Proactivity: Being flexible to evolving project needs, embracing new technologies, and taking initiative.

• Passion for Sports: A genuine interest in the sports industry and its culture, which can inform more relevant and impactful design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with content strategists, account managers, and marketing teams, fostering an integrated approach to campaign development.

• Feedback Exchange: An open-minded and receptive attitude towards feedback is essential for refining designs and ensuring alignment with project goals.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing design inspiration, techniques, and best practices within the team.

• Efficiency-Oriented: A practical approach to design execution ("producer mindset") that balances creative vision with timely delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values creative output that is both innovative and strategically aligned with client needs. A collaborative spirit and a proactive, adaptable mindset are key to thriving in this environment, especially given the dynamic nature of the sports industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: The sports marketing industry is highly dynamic, requiring quick turnarounds and adaptability to changing event schedules and client demands.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining brand continuity across a diverse range of amateur brands while also delivering innovative designs can be a delicate balancing act.

• Managing Upwards & Stakeholders: Effectively communicating design rationale and managing expectations with various stakeholders, including senior management and clients.

• Event Peak Demands: The requirement for availability during major events like The Open can lead to intense periods of work.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with evolving design software, AI tools, and digital media trends requires continuous learning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Access to courses or workshops to deepen expertise in After Effects, motion graphics, or other relevant design software.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend design or sports marketing conferences to gain insights and network.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced creative professionals within IMG and TKO Group.

• Specialized Skill Development: Focus on areas like AI in design, 3D rendering, or advanced video editing to enhance skill set.

• Exposure to Major Events: Gaining hands-on experience with the visual demands of premier sporting events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the fast-paced nature of sports marketing and the need for continuous adaptation. Growth opportunities are focused on skill enhancement, specialization, and gaining experience within high-profile sports events and brands.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting deadlines for multiple design projects. How did you prioritize and what was the outcome?" (Assesses time management, prioritization, and project execution.)

• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you had to maintain strict brand guidelines while still delivering an innovative concept. What was your approach?" (Evaluates understanding of brand continuity, creative problem-solving, and client alignment.)

• "How do you approach ideation for a new digital campaign or branding initiative? Can you share an example where you brought a unique or 'producer mindset' to a project?" (Tests creative process, proactive thinking, and ability to drive projects.)

• "Imagine you need to present a new design concept to a senior stakeholder who is not design-savvy. How would you effectively communicate your vision and rationale?" (Assesses communication skills, stakeholder management, and ability to translate design concepts.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for IMG and specifically supporting the R&A content team?" (Gauges genuine interest in the company, industry, and specific role.)

• "How do you stay updated on current design trends, especially within the sports industry?" (Assesses proactivity, industry awareness, and passion.)

• "Describe your experience working in a collaborative team environment. How do you handle feedback from peers or managers?" (Evaluates teamwork, communication, and adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning (brief/problem), middle (process/solutions), and end (outcome/impact).

• Visual Storytelling: Use your visuals to tell the story of your design process. Don't just show the final product; show the journey.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any of your designs led to measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, positive feedback), highlight that.

• Concise Explanations: Be prepared to discuss each project succinctly, focusing on your role, key decisions, and learnings.

• Enthusiasm: Show your passion for design and the sports industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skills but also a strategic approach to problem-solving, effective communication, and an understanding of the sports marketing landscape. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase these attributes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Creative Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided workdayjobs link, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate a digital portfolio that prominently features your most relevant and impactful design work, specifically highlighting projects related to branding, digital campaigns, and ideally, sports or event-related content. Ensure it demonstrates advanced skills in Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, and Illustrator.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your years of experience, proficiency with the required design software, any experience in the sports industry, and your ability to manage end-to-end creative development. Use keywords from the job description such as "creative development," "digital campaigns," "brand continuity," and "motion design."

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on explaining your creative process, problem-solving strategies, and how you handle feedback. Prepare to discuss your interest in IMG and the sports industry.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with IMG's work, its parent company TKO Group Holdings, and specifically the R&A's brand and recent campaigns. Understand their visual identity and the types of content they produce.

⚠️ 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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