Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Morgan Street Holdings

Location: Xuhui District, Shanghai, China

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Design / Marketing Operations

Date Posted: May 24, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in conceptualizing and executing visually compelling graphics, typography, and packaging designs for the Global Merchandise Services (GMS) team, specifically supporting the Starbucks China market.

• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for developing overall thematic designs, ensuring brand consistency, and translating creative direction into tangible product and communication solutions.

• A key aspect involves deep understanding and application of Chinese market trends and consumer insights to create engaging, culturally relevant storylines for merchandise.

• This position requires strong program and stakeholder management skills to ensure timely delivery of creative assets, acting as a crucial communication bridge between clients and the product design center.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original posting is for a "Graphic Designer," its context within the "Global Merchandise Services" team for a major brand like Starbucks, and the emphasis on product, packaging, and market trends, strongly suggests a role with significant GTM (Go-To-Market) and potentially Marketing Operations implications. The responsibilities include not just creative output but also strategic market adaptation, client communication, and project management, aligning it with broader GTM operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and present innovative graphic designs, typography, packaging concepts, and product renderings that align with brand guidelines and Chinese market trends.

• Create mood boards and design concepts to visually communicate thematic ideas and inspire product development for the Starbucks China merchandise category.

• Conduct thorough research on Chinese market trends, consumer insights, and cultural nuances to inform design strategies and create engaging, locally resonant product narratives.

• Translate creative direction and client requirements into effective product and communication solutions, with a particular focus on color trend research and application.

• Ensure accuracy in design specifications and color samples, maintaining a holistic view of all creative activities to guarantee consistency across deliverables.

• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration with creative, product development (PD), and client teams to ensure seamless project execution and alignment of all creative outputs.

• Develop and manage comprehensive design schedules for promotional windows, meticulously tracking milestones to ensure on-time delivery of all creative assets.

• Act as a primary communication bridge between the Starbucks China customer and the Shanghai-based product design center, effectively relaying requirements and design ideas.

• Monitor and adhere to brand guidelines, ensuring all creative deliverables are consistent with the brand's identity and messaging.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet demanding deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core graphic design skills with strategic market insight and project management. The emphasis on "presenting, promoting and selling products," "designing innovative industry-leading solutions," and "developing in-demand products" points towards a GTM-aligned role where design directly supports commercial objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 4-5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a strong focus on product merchandising, packaging, and consumer-facing marketing materials.

• Proven experience working within or for the Chinese market, demonstrating an understanding of local trends, consumer behavior, and cultural sensitivities.

Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Proficiency: Mastery of Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for creating high-quality graphics, layouts, and visual assets.

• Typographic Excellence: Strong understanding and application of typography to enhance brand messaging and visual appeal.

• Packaging Design Expertise: Demonstrated ability to design effective and aesthetically pleasing packaging solutions.

• Product Rendering Skills: Capability to create realistic product renderings for presentations and marketing.

• Concept Development: Proven ability to develop design concepts, mood boards, and visual narratives.

• Market Trend Analysis: Ability to research and interpret Chinese market trends and consumer insights to inform design.

• Brand Consistency Management: Skill in maintaining brand guidelines and ensuring consistent visual identity across all touchpoints.

• Fluent English Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, essential for international collaboration and client interaction.

• Time Management & Organization: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage complex workloads, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• 3D Software Proficiency: Experience with 3D design software such as Rhino, Solid Works, or Key Shot.

• International Exposure: Overseas design study or work experience, providing a broader global perspective.

• Global Brand Experience: Prior work experience with international brands, understanding of global design standards and client expectations.

• Merchandise Design: Specific experience in designing merchandise for well-known consumer brands.

• Adaptability: Ability to respond positively and effectively to feedback and changing project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "fluent English" and the emphasis on understanding the "China market" suggests a role that bridges international and local design standards. The preferred skills in 3D software and international brand experience further elevate the role's strategic and advanced design capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 strong case studies demonstrating end-to-end design process from concept to final execution, with a focus on product merchandising and packaging.

• Include examples of thematic design development, mood boards, and visual storytelling that led to successful product launches or campaigns.

• Present examples of how market research and consumer insights were integrated into design solutions, particularly for the Chinese market.

• Highlight projects where brand guidelines were meticulously followed and creatively interpreted.

Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio case study, be prepared to articulate the design process, including:

  • Concept Ideation: How initial ideas were generated and refined.
  • Research & Inspiration: Methods used for market trend and consumer insight gathering.
  • Design Development: Workflow for creating graphics, typography, and packaging.
  • Client Collaboration: How feedback was incorporated and stakeholders were managed.
  • Finalization & Delivery: Processes for ensuring accuracy and on-time delivery.

• Be ready to discuss how design schedules were managed and how project milestones were tracked to ensure timely execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role with GTM implications, a portfolio is critical. The emphasis should be on demonstrating not just aesthetic skill but also the strategic thinking behind the designs, their market relevance, and the ability to manage the process from ideation to launch, aligning with operational efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package (medical, dental, vision).

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

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

• Opportunities for international travel and collaboration.

• Retirement savings plan or equivalent benefits.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week.

• May require occasional overtime to meet project deadlines or client needs, especially during peak promotional periods.

• Flexible work arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case basis, though the role is primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on a combination of Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry benchmarks for similar roles in Shanghai, China, considering the company's international presence and the specific skill requirements. Benefits are typical for multinational corporations in this sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Morgan Street Holdings operates within the broader "Consulting," "Retail," and "Marketing" industries, with a specific focus on technology, marketing, and sourcing solutions for leading brands. Their Global Merchandise Services (GMS) division functions akin to a specialized brand extension and merchandise agency.

Company Size:

Founded:

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Global Merchandise Services (GMS) team, which is dedicated to bringing fan community products to life.

• This team likely operates within a matrix structure, collaborating closely with product development, marketing, and client management teams.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a holistic approach, uniting technology, marketing, and sourcing. For the GMS team, this translates to:
  • Data-Driven Inspiration: Utilizing consumer insights and market trends to drive creative decisions.
  • Collaborative Innovation: Working closely with clients and internal teams to co-create innovative product solutions.
  • Process Optimization: Ensuring efficient workflows for design, development, and delivery to meet client deadlines.
  • Brand Stewardship: Maintaining brand integrity and cultural relevance in all merchandise.

Company Website:

• tmsw.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's description positions it as a strategic partner for major brands, emphasizing innovation and client success. The GMS team's focus on merchandise and community engagement for brands like Starbucks highlights a specialized, consumer-facing operational unit.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

• The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the perceived value, appeal, and market success of merchandise for major brands like Starbucks. Effective designs drive consumer engagement, enhance brand loyalty, and contribute to sales revenue by making products desirable.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like packaging design, 3D rendering, or trend forecasting within the merchandise space.

• Senior Designer/Art Director: Progress to leading design projects, mentoring junior designers, and taking on more strategic creative direction.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Transition into roles in Product Development, Brand Management, or Marketing within GMS or other divisions of Morgan Street Holdings.

• Client Management: Grow into a role with more direct client-facing responsibilities, managing design relationships and strategy.

• International Experience: Leverage the Shanghai role to gain extensive experience in the Asian market, which can be a significant career asset.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth potential is significant, moving from execution to strategic leadership, especially within a global firm that values specialized market knowledge. The role is a stepping stone for operations professionals aiming for broader GTM or brand management responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration suggests an open or semi-open office layout conducive to team interaction and spontaneous idea sharing.

• Technology-Rich: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially advanced hardware (e.g., powerful workstations, potentially 3D modeling tools).

• Client-Facing Interactions: Opportunities to engage with clients and present creative work, requiring a professional and presentable workspace.

• Team Dynamics: Working within the GMS team means being part of a group focused on bringing merchandise to life, likely involving a dynamic and creative atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week is expected, with potential for overtime during critical project phases. The on-site nature of the role ensures full immersion in the team's collaborative workflow and company culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a major international hub like Shanghai suggests a vibrant work environment with opportunities for significant professional networking and exposure to global brand operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will assess resume and portfolio for basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion focused on design skills, experience with specific software, understanding of market trends, and cultural fit. Expect questions about past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: A practical exercise or in-depth review of the candidate's portfolio. This is where you'll present your work, explain your process, and demonstrate your ability to meet client needs and brand standards. Be prepared to discuss how your designs contribute to business objectives.

• Cross-functional Team Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues from product development or marketing to assess collaboration skills and ability to integrate into the team.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader in the GMS division to discuss strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects, prioritizing those related to merchandise, packaging, and consumer brands. Include examples relevant to the Chinese market if possible.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the design process, the insights that drove your decisions, and the final outcome/impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Be ready to walk through your workflow, including concept development, research, software used, and how you incorporated feedback.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrates the success of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, positive client feedback, successful launch).

• Tailor to Role: Emphasize skills and projects that directly align with the job description, such as understanding Chinese market trends and working with international brands.

• Prepare for 3D: If you have 3D skills, be ready to showcase them, especially if you have relevant software experience (Rhino, Key Shot).

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If a design challenge is given, thoroughly analyze the requirements, target audience, and brand context.

• Focus on Strategy: Demonstrate not just creative execution but also strategic thinking. How does your design solve a problem or meet a business objective?

• Time Management: Allocate your time wisely between concept, execution, and presentation.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your work clearly and concisely, anticipating questions about your creative choices and process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily weigh the candidate's portfolio and their ability to articulate their design process and strategic thinking, especially concerning market-specific nuances.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Photoshop: Essential for image editing, manipulation, and digital artwork creation.
  • Adobe Illustrator: Critical for vector graphics, logos, typography, and layout design.

• 3D Design Software (Preferred):

  • Rhino: For complex geometric modeling, often used in product design.
  • SolidWorks: Primarily for engineering and product design, useful for detailed product modeling.
  • Key Shot: For creating photorealistic renderings and animations from 3D models.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

Other Potential Tools:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira might be used for task tracking and workflow management.

• Collaboration Platforms: Slack, Microsoft Teams for team communication.

• Cloud Storage: For file sharing and version control (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox).

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator is non-negotiable. Experience with 3D rendering software is a significant advantage, directly supporting the "product rendering" aspect of the role and indicating a more advanced skill set.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A strong emphasis on generating fresh, breakthrough ideas that drive business results for clients.

• Authenticity & Inclusion: Fostering a culture where employees can be their true selves, promoting diversity and a sense of belonging.

• Collaboration: A belief that "brilliant people are better together," encouraging teamwork and cross-functional synergy.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, delivering transformational change.

• Impact-Driven: Focusing on achieving tangible business outcomes and making a lasting impact on people, business, and the planet.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with Product Development, Marketing, and Client Management teams, integrating design into broader GTM strategies.

• Client-Centric Communication: Acting as a bridge between the client (Starbucks China) and the internal design center, requiring clear, effective, and culturally sensitive communication.

• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that likely embraces constructive feedback as a means to refine designs and ensure alignment with project goals.

• Proactive Problem-Solving: Encouraging team members to identify potential issues early and work collaboratively to find solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values of authenticity, inclusion, and collaboration are key to understanding the team's operational ethos. The designer's role as a communication bridge highlights the importance of interpersonal and stakeholder management skills within the team's collaborative framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Global Brand Standards with Local Market Nuances: Effectively translating Starbucks' global brand identity into designs that resonate deeply with the unique cultural context of China.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders and Deadlines: Juggling the demands of client expectations, internal team requirements, and strict project timelines in a fast-paced GTM environment.

• Translating Abstract Concepts into Tangible Products: Effectively visualizing and designing merchandise that captures specific emotions or themes for a broad fan base.

• Staying Ahead of Rapidly Evolving Trends: Continuously researching and integrating new design and market trends, particularly within the dynamic Chinese consumer landscape.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Opportunity to hone skills in 3D rendering, packaging design, and sophisticated typography.

• Cross-Cultural Design Expertise: Deepen understanding of design principles and consumer behavior specific to the Asian market.

• Brand Strategy Immersion: Gain insights into how design contributes to broader brand strategy and GTM initiatives for major global brands.

• Professional Development: Access to workshops, training, and potentially certifications in design software and creative methodologies.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from experienced designers, art directors, and GMS leaders within a global organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working with a global brand in a diverse market. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a path to becoming a specialized GTM design leader with significant international market expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to adapt global brand guidelines for a specific local market. What was your process and what was the outcome?" (Tests understanding of market adaptation and brand stewardship.)

• "How do you approach developing a thematic design concept for a new product line? Walk us through your process from brief to mood board." (Assesses creative process and concept development skills.)

• "Imagine a scenario where a client (e.g., Starbucks China) provides feedback that contradicts your design vision. How would you handle this situation to achieve a positive outcome?" (Evaluates stakeholder management, communication, and problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Morgan Street Holdings and specifically our Global Merchandise Services team?" (Assesses research and alignment with company mission.)

• "How do you embody our company values of authenticity and collaboration in your work?" (Tests cultural fit and understanding of company ethos.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Choose one project from your portfolio that best demonstrates your ability to create impactful product merchandise for a consumer brand. Please walk us through it, focusing on your design process, market considerations, and the final results." (This is your primary opportunity to shine.)

• Be prepared to discuss the ROI or business impact of your designs, even if qualitative. How did your design contribute to the product's success or the client's goals?

• If you have 3D skills, be ready to showcase them and explain how they enhance your design capabilities.

• Have clear, concise answers ready for common questions about your creative process, software proficiency, and experience with international brands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, strategic market understanding, and operational efficiency in managing design projects from concept to completion.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Morgan Street Holdings careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and showcases your most relevant work, particularly in product design, packaging, and consumer branding. Tailor the projects you highlight to align with the requirements for the Starbucks China market.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 4-5 years of experience, highlight proficiency in Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator, mention any experience with 3D software, and emphasize your understanding of market trends and cross-functional collaboration. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your design process, market insights, and ability to manage projects. Prepare answers for strategic and behavioral questions related to brand adaptation, client management, and collaboration.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Morgan Street Holdings, tmsw.com, and the Global Merchandise Services division. Understand their client roster and their approach to brand extension and merchandise. Familiarize yourself with Starbucks' brand identity and current marketing efforts in China.

⚠️ 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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