Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Marriott (Gaylord Hotels - Opryland)

Location: Nashville, TN, United States

Job Type: Full Time

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

Date Posted: September 3, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce a wide range of marketing collateral, including advertisements, signage, and digital assets, to directly contribute to driving hotel revenue.

• Manage the end-to-end visual development of creative projects, ensuring alignment with current brand standards and a cohesive brand look across all materials.

• Collaborate closely with Marketing managers and various operational departments to provide conceptualization, design solutions, and execute project deliverables effectively.

• Maintain a strong understanding of customer demographics to inform the visual style and content of promotional and event-related collateral, ensuring maximum impact.

• Oversee project progress, troubleshoot digital production issues, and maintain organized project files, demonstrating a commitment to efficient operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within the hospitality sector, specifically at Gaylord Hotels, a brand known for its large-scale meeting and event experiences. The Graphic Designer will play a crucial role in supporting these high-volume operations through compelling visual communication. The emphasis on "driving hotel revenue" indicates a direct link between design output and business objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute a variety of marketing materials, including print advertisements, collateral pieces, on-property signage, digital banners, electronic brochures, and presentations.

• Translate marketing objectives into visually engaging designs that resonate with target customer demographics and align with the Gaylord Hotels brand identity.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Sales, and Event Management, to understand project requirements, provide design expertise, and ensure timely delivery of assets.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and workflows to meet deadlines in a fast-paced operational environment.

• Execute advanced digital production tasks such as scanning, image retouching, file manipulation, and special effects to ensure high-quality final outputs.

• Maintain brand consistency across all creative assets by adhering to brand guidelines and providing creative direction for visual development.

• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to digital design software and file formats to prevent production delays.

• Archive and organize all final design files and project assets for future reference and brand consistency.

• Provide direct support for escalated customer service needs related to design requests, ensuring clear communication and satisfactory resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design execution and operational project management. The role requires not only artistic talent but also the ability to manage workflows, collaborate with diverse teams, and understand the business impact of design decisions, particularly in a high-volume hospitality setting like Gaylord Hotels.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Computer Graphics, Graphic Design, or a closely related field is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in graphic design or a related professional area, with a strong focus on marketing collateral and visual communication.

• Alternatively, 3 years of experience in Computer Graphics or a related professional area if holding an Associate's or Bachelor's degree.

• Experience within the hospitality industry or in a role supporting large-scale events and operations is highly advantageous. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard graphic design software, including Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Strong understanding of pre-press production, print processes, and digital file preparation.

• Excellent visual design skills with a keen eye for typography, color theory, layout, and composition.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with marketing teams and stakeholders.

• Experience with digital retouching, image editing, and file manipulation techniques.

• Foundational knowledge of customer service principles and practices. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion graphics or video editing software (e.g., After Effects, Premiere Pro).

• Familiarity with web design principles and HTML/CSS.

• Experience in developing and maintaining brand style guides.

• Knowledge of CRM systems or marketing automation platforms for understanding campaign integration.

• Ability to create and manage digital assets for various online platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are structured to accommodate both experienced professionals without a formal degree and those with relevant degrees. The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite and pre-press production indicates a need for practical, hands-on design skills. The preferred skills suggest potential for growth into more integrated marketing roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, with a strong emphasis on marketing collateral for events, promotions, or hospitality services.

• Demonstrations of conceptualization and visual development, illustrating the process from initial idea to final execution.

• Examples of print and digital materials, including advertisements, signage, brochures, and presentations, highlighting versatility.

• Case studies or project examples that detail how design solutions contributed to specific business objectives, such as driving revenue or enhancing brand perception.

• Evidence of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, with samples that reflect advanced techniques in image editing and layout. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document design processes, from brief intake to final asset delivery, for internal workflow optimization.

• Examples of how project files are organized and maintained for efficient retrieval and brand consistency.

• Understanding of how design feedback is incorporated and revisions are managed within a project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a creative role like this, a strong portfolio is paramount. The requirements emphasize not just the final output but also the process and the impact of the design work, aligning with operational efficiency and business results. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process and how their work supports broader marketing and revenue goals.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $75,000 per year (Estimated)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Employee discounts on hotel stays and other Marriott services.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

• Access to Marriott's extensive network for potential career advancement within the company. Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday.

• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or support events, with potential for overtime compensation or compensatory time off.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Nashville, TN, and considering the established brand of Marriott/Gaylord Hotels. Benefits are standard for a large hospitality organization and are designed to support employee well-being and long-term commitment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality & Tourism, Hotels & Accommodations. Gaylord Hotels are known for their expansive convention and entertainment facilities, catering to large-scale meetings, events, and leisure tourism, which implies a dynamic, high-volume operational environment.

Company Size: Marriott International is a global leader in the hospitality industry, employing hundreds of thousands of associates worldwide. Gaylord Hotels represents a significant part of this portfolio, operating large properties that require extensive operational coordination.

Founded: Gaylord Entertainment Company was founded in 1962; it was acquired by Ryman Hospitality Properties in 2012, and its hotels were subsequently managed by Marriott International under a long-term agreement. This history suggests a blend of established brand identity with modern operational integration.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Marketing department, reporting to a Marketing Manager or Director.

• The team will include other marketing specialists (e.g., content creators, digital marketers, event coordinators) and will collaborate closely with Sales, Operations, and Hotel Management teams.

• The structure is designed to support the complex operational needs of a large resort, requiring efficient collaboration and clear communication channels. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, utilizing market insights and customer analytics to inform design strategies.

• Project management methodologies to ensure efficient workflow and timely delivery of marketing assets.

• Collaborative approach, encouraging input from various departments to ensure designs meet diverse operational and business needs.

• Emphasis on brand consistency and quality assurance across all visual communications.

Company Website: https://www.marriott.com/ / https://www.gaylordhotels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for Gaylord Hotels within Marriott means being part of a large, established organization with a focus on large-scale events and guest experiences. The culture likely emphasizes professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to service excellence, all while managing the complex operational demands of a major resort property.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an individual contributor, typically at an intermediate level (2-5 years of experience). It requires independent execution of design tasks and collaboration within a team. The "Graphic Design Operations" aspect suggests a focus on the practical application and delivery of design services within an organizational framework.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Marketing Manager or Director, who oversees broader marketing strategies and campaign execution. This structure allows for focused design support within a larger departmental framework.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the hotel's ability to attract guests and drive revenue through compelling marketing materials. Effective visual communication enhances brand perception, supports sales efforts, and contributes to the overall guest experience, making it a critical operational function.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to specialize in areas like digital design, motion graphics, or branding, and to master advanced design software and techniques.

• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design aspects of larger marketing campaigns or events, taking on more responsibility for creative direction and project management.

• Cross-Functional Movement: With experience, potential to move into broader marketing roles, brand management, or even operational management within the hospitality sector.

• Marriott International Network: Access to internal training programs, workshops, and a vast network of professionals across various Marriott brands and locations, offering diverse career paths.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation in creative operations within a major hospitality brand. Growth opportunities are tied to developing specialized design skills, taking on project leadership, and leveraging the extensive career development resources available through Marriott International.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at the Gaylord Opryland property in Nashville, TN. This implies working within a corporate office environment that supports the hotel's extensive operations, likely co-located with other marketing and administrative functions.

Office Location(s): 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214. This location is known for its large convention facilities and resort amenities.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office setting where the Graphic Designer will interact daily with marketing colleagues and potentially other hotel departments.

• Access to necessary design hardware and software, including powerful workstations and the full Adobe Creative Suite.

• Opportunities to observe and draw inspiration from the unique environment of a large-scale resort and event venue.

• Potential for on-site photo shoots or site visits to understand the context for marketing materials. Work Schedule:

• The primary work schedule is full-time, 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday.

• Given the nature of the hospitality industry and event-driven business, there may be an occasional need for flexibility to meet urgent project deadlines or support specific events, though this is not the norm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is crucial for collaboration and immersion in the operational environment of a major resort. The workspace is expected to be equipped for professional design work, fostering both individual productivity and team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative capabilities.

• Portfolio Presentation: An opportunity to present your portfolio to the hiring manager or a panel, discussing your design process, project rationale, and impact. Be prepared to walk through 3-5 key projects that demonstrate your skills relevant to marketing collateral and event support.

• Skills Assessment/Creative Challenge: You may be asked to complete a short design exercise or a case study related to creating marketing materials for a specific hotel event or promotion. This assesses your problem-solving abilities and design execution under a time constraint.

• Behavioral and Situational Interviews: Questions will focus on your experience with collaboration, managing deadlines, handling feedback, problem-solving in operational contexts, and your understanding of brand consistency.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management to discuss cultural fit and long-term potential within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best represent your skills in creating marketing collateral, event materials, and brand-aligned assets. Prioritize quality over quantity.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the brief, your design process, the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the measurable impact of your work. Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., "increased engagement by X%").

• Showcase Process: Include sketches, mood boards, or early concepts to demonstrate your creative thinking and problem-solving approach.

• Highlight Brand Alignment: Emphasize how you've successfully worked within brand guidelines or adapted designs to maintain brand integrity.

• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques you used, particularly your command of Adobe Creative Suite.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and analyze any design challenge provided. Ask clarifying questions if needed.

• Prioritize Objectives: Focus on creating a design that meets the stated marketing objectives and target audience.

• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively between conceptualization, design, and refinement.

• Presentation: Be prepared to clearly articulate your design choices and rationale, just as you would for your portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Graphic Designer role heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their visual work but also articulate the strategic thinking, operational considerations, and business impact behind their designs. The creative challenge is a key differentiator.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for creating and editing graphics, illustrations, and layouts.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Particularly PowerPoint for presentation design and Word for incorporating text.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: Familiarity with systems for storing, organizing, and retrieving digital assets, crucial for brand consistency.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing analytics, understanding how design performance is tracked (e.g., click-through rates on digital ads, engagement metrics) is beneficial.

• Ability to use basic reporting tools to understand campaign performance data that might inform future design choices. CRM & Automation:

• Basic understanding of how marketing automation platforms or CRM systems are used to deploy campaigns, which can influence the design specifications for digital assets.

• Familiarity with email marketing platforms and their design requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Experience with DAM systems is highly relevant given the scale of Marriott's operations and the need for brand consistency across numerous properties and campaigns.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Guest-Centricity: A core value in hospitality, meaning designs should always consider the guest experience and how they will interact with the materials.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, polished creative work that reflects the premium brand image of Gaylord Hotels.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork and open communication, working effectively with marketing, sales, and operations teams to achieve shared goals.

• Efficiency & Resourcefulness: The ability to manage projects effectively, optimize workflows, and produce impactful designs within operational constraints and deadlines.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Willingness to explore new design trends and technologies to keep marketing materials fresh and relevant, while adapting to evolving business needs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to work closely with marketing managers to understand campaign objectives and with other operational departments (e.g., Events, F&B) to create tailored materials.

• Feedback-Driven: Open to receiving and incorporating constructive feedback from stakeholders to refine designs and ensure alignment with project goals.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly update project stakeholders on progress, potential challenges, and next steps to maintain transparency and ensure smooth operations.

• Shared Ownership: A sense of collective responsibility for the success of marketing initiatives, where design plays a pivotal role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Gaylord Hotels, influenced by Marriott's values, will likely foster a professional, service-oriented, and collaborative environment. The Graphic Designer will be expected to embody these values in their daily work and interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Constraints: Effectively translating creative ideas into designs that strictly adhere to brand guidelines and operational requirements.

• Managing High Volume and Tight Deadlines: Juggling multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment where events and promotions require rapid turnaround times.

• Adapting to Evolving Marketing Strategies: Staying current with new marketing channels, digital trends, and guest engagement strategies to ensure designs remain effective.

• Measuring Design Impact: Demonstrating the tangible impact of graphic design on key business metrics like revenue, bookings, or guest satisfaction, which can be challenging to isolate.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or explore new creative tools.

• Branding Workshops: Sessions focused on brand strategy, identity development, and maintaining brand consistency across diverse platforms.

• Hospitality Marketing Trends: Exposure to specialized marketing approaches within the hospitality industry, understanding guest journey mapping and experiential marketing.

• Project Management Skills: Development of skills in managing complex projects, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and optimizing design workflows.

• Internal Mobility: Marriott's vast network provides ample opportunities for career progression into senior design roles, management positions, or other marketing functions across different brands and locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical for a creative professional in a large, dynamic organization. The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly within a global company like Marriott, offering pathways for both skill specialization and broader career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a strict brand guideline with your creative vision. How did you approach it?" (Assesses adaptability and adherence to brand standards.)

• "How do you prioritize your workload when faced with multiple urgent design requests from different departments?" (Evaluates time management and operational efficiency.)

• "Walk us through a complex design project from concept to completion. What was your process, and what were the key challenges and outcomes?" (Tests project management skills and ability to articulate design strategy.)

• "How do you ensure your designs effectively communicate the intended message and drive desired actions from the target audience?" (Probes understanding of design effectiveness and marketing objectives.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Gaylord Hotels specifically, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our unique guest experiences?" (Assesses research and cultural fit.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-designers, such as marketing managers or event planners, to ensure successful project outcomes?" (Evaluates teamwork and communication skills.)

• "What are your thoughts on the importance of brand consistency in the hospitality industry, and how would you maintain it in your work here?" (Tests understanding of brand operations.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with your strongest, most relevant projects. For each, clearly state the objective, your role, your process, the solution, and the results.

• Quantify Success: Wherever possible, use data to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., "This ad campaign resulted in a 15% increase in bookings").

• Demonstrate Versatility: Showcase a range of work that highlights your ability to design for print, digital, signage, and presentations.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Emphasize how you solved specific design challenges or met complex operational needs with your creative solutions.

• Engage and Discuss: Be prepared for questions and engage in a dialogue about your work, demonstrating your passion and strategic thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing not just design talent but also an understanding of the operational context, brand management, and the business impact of graphic design within the hospitality sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Oracle Cloud portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful design projects that specifically highlight your experience with marketing collateral, event-related materials, and brand consistency. Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible online (e.g., personal website, Behance, Adobe Portfolio).

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your experience in graphic design, digital production, project coordination, and any relevant customer service or hospitality industry background. Use keywords from the job description such as "marketing materials," "brand look," "digital retouching," and "project management."

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your selected portfolio pieces, articulating your design process, rationale, and the business impact of your work. Be ready to discuss how you handle feedback and collaborate with teams.

• Research Gaylord Hotels & Marriott: Understand the brand's positioning, target audience, and recent marketing efforts. Familiarize yourself with Marriott's overall mission and values to articulate your cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.