(1349) Graphic Designer - Exec Man

South African Reserve Bank
Full_time•Pretoria, South Africa

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer - Exec Man (1349) Company: South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa Job Type: Full time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: October 30, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • This role is focused on the creation of high-impact visual communications and design assets for the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and its subsidiaries.
  • Key responsibilities include conceptualizing and executing creative designs, including motion graphics and animation, to support key events and publications.
  • The position requires strong collaboration with internal clients to ensure all visual materials are aligned with SARB's brand identity and corporate guidelines.
  • Successful candidates will manage design projects from conception to delivery, adhering to strict timelines and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title includes "Exec Man," this is likely an internal code or placeholder and not indicative of gender or executive-level responsibility. The "Brief description" and "Detailed description" clearly outline a Graphic Designer role focused on visual communications and creative asset production. The experience level of 2-5 years further supports this.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Conceptualize, visualize, and create high-quality, creative designs for various platforms, ensuring strict adherence to SARB's brand and corporate identity guidelines.
  • Assist in the selection of visual elements, including photography, infographics, and graphs, for publications, motion designs, communications, brand materials, conference collateral, animation, presentations, and videos.
  • Collaborate closely with internal clients to understand their design requirements and deliver visually appealing and fit-for-purpose design solutions.
  • Plan and organize individual work to meet agreed-upon schedules with the Visual Communications Manager, providing regular progress updates.
  • Act as a design consultant to internal clients, offering expert advice on layout, motion design, software best practices, and overall design processes.
  • Prioritize design tasks based on scheduled publications, project urgency, and client deadlines.
  • Ensure all design deliverables meet turnaround times specified in Visual Communication Procedures and Standards and agreed client timelines.
  • Stay current with leading design practices, software advancements, and visual communication trends to continuously elevate the quality of SARB's materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative execution, client management, and adherence to corporate standards, typical for a mid-level graphic designer within a large, regulated organization like a central bank. The focus on "SARB brand and corporate identity guidelines" and "Visual Communication’s Procedures and Standards" highlights the need for a designer who can balance creativity with compliance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • While specific educational requirements are not detailed, a tertiary qualification in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for this type of role.

Experience:

  • 2-5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a proven track record in creating a diverse range of visual assets.
  • Experience working within a corporate environment or for a large organization, demonstrating an understanding of brand guidelines and stakeholder management.

Required Skills:

  • Graphic Design: Proficiency in industry-standard design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
  • Visual Communication: Strong understanding of visual storytelling, composition, and typography.
  • Motion Graphics: Experience creating animated graphics for presentations, videos, or digital platforms.
  • Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with internal clients, stakeholders, and team members.
  • Brand Identity: Keen eye for detail and understanding of brand consistency and corporate identity guidelines.
  • Infographics & Data Visualization: Skill in translating complex data into clear and engaging visual formats.
  • Animation: Experience in creating animated sequences or elements.
  • Presentation Design: Ability to design impactful and professional presentations.
  • Client Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for client consultations and feedback sessions.
  • Layout Design: Expertise in creating effective and aesthetically pleasing layouts for print and digital media.
  • Creative Conceptualization: Ability to generate innovative design concepts that meet project objectives.
  • Photography Selection: Skill in choosing appropriate imagery that complements design narratives.
  • Video Production Support: Familiarity with basic video editing or post-production processes, particularly for integrating motion graphics.
  • Project Management: Basic ability to manage individual projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Feedback Provision: Capability to provide and receive constructive feedback on design work.
  • Design Software Proficiency: Expertise beyond core design tools, potentially including animation or video editing software.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with specific animation software (e.g., After Effects).
  • Familiarity with video editing software (e.g., Premiere Pro).
  • Experience in a financial institution or central bank environment.
  • Knowledge of web design principles or UI/UX basics.
  • Experience with project management tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "ai_key_skills" list is comprehensive. The "2-5" years experience level suggests a need for a designer who is past entry-level but still developing, capable of independent work on defined projects with some guidance. The emphasis on "SARB brand and corporate identity" implies a need for meticulous attention to detail and adherence to established visual standards.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Showcase a diverse range of design projects, including examples of print collateral, digital graphics, and presentations.
  • Feature specific examples of motion graphics, animation, and infographic design to demonstrate proficiency in these areas.
  • Include case studies or descriptions of projects that highlight collaboration with clients and how design requirements were met.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of brand consistency by showcasing work that adheres to specific brand guidelines.
  • Present examples that illustrate effective layout design and visual hierarchy.

Process Documentation:

  • Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, from initial concept and client consultation to final delivery and feedback integration.
  • Be ready to explain how they manage project timelines and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to articulate how they incorporate feedback and iterate on designs to achieve client satisfaction.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with managing design files and ensuring proper preparation for different output mediums (print, web, video).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, a strong visual portfolio is paramount. The emphasis on motion graphics, infographics, and client collaboration suggests that the SARB is looking for a versatile designer who can handle various communication needs and work effectively with internal stakeholders. The portfolio should clearly illustrate the candidate's ability to translate briefs into compelling visual narratives within corporate constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in Pretoria, South Africa, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between ZAR 350,000 to ZAR 550,000 per annum. This estimate considers the cost of living in Pretoria and the specialized nature of the role within a prominent institution like the South African Reserve Bank.

Benefits:

  • Medical Aid: Comprehensive medical aid scheme coverage.
  • Retirement Fund: Contribution to a pension or provident fund.
  • Leave Entitlement: Generous annual leave and other paid time off.
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and skill enhancement related to design software and visual communication techniques.
  • Wellness Programs: Access to employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.
  • Potential for Performance Bonuses: Subject to individual and organizational performance.

Working Hours:

  • Standard working hours are likely to be 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 17:00. Some flexibility may be expected based on project deadlines, but the role is primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar roles in South Africa, factoring in the employer's profile (a major financial institution) and the specified experience level. The benefits listed are standard for professional positions within large South African organizations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services / Central Banking Company Size: Large Enterprise (The South African Reserve Bank is a major national institution with thousands of employees across various departments and subsidiaries.) Founded: 1921 (The SARB has a long-standing history and plays a critical role in the South African economy.)

Team Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a Visual Communications or Corporate Communications department.
  • This department may consist of a Visual Communications Manager, other graphic designers, possibly illustrators, and individuals focused on content creation or marketing.
  • The team structure will likely involve direct reporting to a Visual Communications Manager, with collaboration across various internal departments (e.g., Public Relations, Research, Human Resources, Event Management).

Methodology:

  • Data Analysis & Insights: While not directly analytical, the designer will need to understand how to visually represent data through infographics and charts.
  • Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role involves managing personal workflow and contributing to efficient design processes within the team.
  • Automation & Efficiency: Potentially utilizing design tools and templates to streamline repetitive design tasks.

Company Website: https://www.resbank.co.za/

📝 Enhancement Note: The SARB operates in a highly regulated and professional environment. Its culture is likely to be one of precision, integrity, and adherence to protocol. For a graphic designer, this means balancing creativity with a strong sense of responsibility and compliance. The company size indicates a structured environment with established processes and career paths.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Designer

  • This role represents a mid-level opportunity within a specialized design function. It requires the ability to work independently on assigned projects while also collaborating effectively within a team and with diverse internal clients. The designer is expected to contribute creative solutions and maintain high-quality outputs consistently.

Reporting Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer will report directly to the Visual Communications Manager.
  • This manager will oversee the strategic direction of visual communications and manage the design team's workload and performance.
  • Collaboration will extend to various departments within the SARB, requiring the designer to liaise with stakeholders at different levels.

Operations Impact:

  • The designer's work directly influences how the SARB communicates its message, brand identity, and key information to both internal and external audiences.
  • High-quality visual materials enhance the professionalism and credibility of the SARB's publications, events, and digital presence.
  • Effective infographics and data visualizations can significantly improve the understanding of complex economic information.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Senior Graphic Designer: Progression to a senior role, taking on more complex projects, mentoring junior designers, and potentially leading smaller design initiatives.
  • Specialization: Developing expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, animation, or data visualization.
  • Visual Communications Management: Potential to move into roles with greater strategic oversight of visual communication efforts, possibly leading to a Team Lead or Managerial position within the department.
  • Skill Development: Access to training and professional development programs to enhance technical skills and creative capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations Career Level" here refers to the designer's position within the broader operational framework of the SARB's communications department. The growth potential is realistic for a large, established organization that values internal development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate Office Environment Office Location(s): Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. The SARB has a significant presence in Pretoria, likely with modern office facilities.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with colleagues within the Visual Communications team and with various internal clients across the bank.
  • Operations Tools & Technology: Access to a robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance workstations, industry-standard design software, and potentially specialized hardware for animation or video.
  • Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project discussions, and brainstorming sessions will be part of the daily routine.

Work Schedule:

  • The standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday) is typical for on-site roles. While core hours will apply, some flexibility might be offered for project-driven needs, though adherence to deadlines is paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role within a central bank, the environment is expected to be professional, secure, and well-equipped to support high-quality design output. The emphasis on collaboration suggests a team-oriented work culture.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative output.
  • First Interview: Typically with the Visual Communications Manager and/or HR. Focus on experience, skills, understanding of design principles, and client interaction capabilities.
  • Portfolio Presentation/Technical Assessment: A more in-depth session where candidates present their portfolio, discuss their design process, and potentially complete a practical design exercise or case study. This assesses technical skills, creative problem-solving, and ability to articulate design choices.
  • Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior management or other key stakeholders to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest and most relevant projects. Ensure a good mix demonstrating your versatility (print, digital, motion graphics, infographics).
  • Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your conceptual approach, the design process, challenges faced, and the final outcome. Use visuals to support your narrative.
  • Emphasize SARB Relevance: If possible, tailor a project or highlight aspects of existing work that align with corporate communications or financial sector themes.
  • Showcase Brand Adherence: Include an example where you successfully worked within strict brand guidelines.
  • Quantify Impact (if possible): If a design project had measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity), present those metrics.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Be prepared for a practical design challenge that might involve creating a piece of collateral (e.g., infographic, social media graphic, presentation slide) based on a provided brief within a time limit.
  • Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, explaining your rationale for color choices, typography, layout, and imagery.
  • Prepare to discuss how you would approach a project with ambiguous requirements or tight deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this in a formal institution will likely be structured and thorough. A strong portfolio that showcases both creative talent and the ability to follow guidelines is crucial. The practical assessment is a key differentiator.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Motion Graphics Software: Adobe After Effects is highly probable for creating motion graphics and animation.
  • Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro or similar for basic video integration and editing.
  • Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint, potentially Google Slides, with advanced template design capabilities.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not a primary tool for the designer, they may use analytics from digital platforms to inform design choices or report on engagement metrics for their visual content.

CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly applicable to this role's core functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The explicit mention of "motion graphics" and "animation" strongly suggests that Adobe After Effects will be a key tool. The SARB, as a major financial institution, will undoubtedly provide access to up-to-date software and hardware.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical behavior, reflecting the SARB's role as a central bank.
  • Excellence: Striving for high-quality output in all design work, ensuring accuracy and visual appeal.
  • Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues and internal clients to achieve shared goals.
  • Innovation: Approaching design challenges with creativity and seeking new ways to communicate effectively through visuals.
  • Accountability: Taking ownership of design projects and ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: The designer will need to work closely with individuals from various departments, requiring clear communication and an understanding of diverse needs.
  • Process Review & Feedback: A culture of constructive feedback is likely, where designs are reviewed and iterated upon to ensure they meet objectives and standards.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of design techniques, best practices, and insights within the Visual Communications team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at the South African Reserve Bank is expected to be formal, structured, and driven by a commitment to institutional integrity and public service. The design team will operate within these parameters, balancing creative expression with the bank's mandate and brand.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Effectively producing innovative designs while strictly adhering to SARB's corporate identity and brand guidelines.
  • Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Catering to the varied design requests and expectations from different internal departments, each with unique objectives.
  • Meeting Tight Deadlines: Delivering high-quality visual assets under pressure, especially for time-sensitive publications and events.
  • Keeping Pace with Evolving Design Trends: Continuously learning and adapting to new design software, techniques, and visual communication strategies in a dynamic field.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Design Software Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops for mastering tools like After Effects, Premiere Pro, or new design platforms.
  • Industry Workshops & Conferences: Opportunities to attend events focused on graphic design, visual communication, and branding to stay abreast of industry trends.
  • Mentorship: Potential to learn from senior designers or the Visual Communications Manager regarding strategic design thinking and career development.
  • Cross-departmental Exposure: Gaining a broader understanding of the SARB's operations through collaboration with different units.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a graphic designer in a large, regulated organization. The growth opportunities highlight the SARB's potential commitment to employee development, offering pathways for skill enhancement and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Design Process: "Walk me through your process for creating a complex infographic from brief to final delivery." (Focus on stages: understanding the brief, research, concept development, execution, feedback, revisions, final output.)
  • Brand Adherence: "How do you balance creative freedom with strict brand guidelines, especially in a regulated environment like the SARB?" (Emphasize understanding guidelines, finding creative solutions within constraints, and seeking clarification.)
  • Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you received challenging or conflicting feedback on a design. How did you handle it?" (Focus on active listening, seeking clarification, proposing solutions, and managing expectations.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about working for the South African Reserve Bank specifically, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Research SARB's role, recent initiatives, and align your passion for design with their objectives.)
  • "How do you approach collaboration with non-designers or clients who may not have a strong visual background?" (Focus on clear communication, active listening, educating stakeholders, and building consensus.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Storytelling: For each project in your portfolio, tell a concise story: the problem, your solution, and the outcome. Highlight your role and contribution.
  • Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually clean, well-designed, and easy to follow. Use high-resolution images.
  • Technical Discussion: Be prepared to discuss the software used, technical challenges overcome, and specific design choices (e.g., why you chose a particular font, color palette, or layout).
  • SARB Context: Frame your work in the context of corporate communications and visual identity, demonstrating an understanding of the SARB's needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these types of questions and presentation strategies will demonstrate not only your design skills but also your professionalism, communication abilities, and suitability for the SARB's environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided application link on the Oracle Cloud portal.
  • Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and highlights your strongest work, particularly in motion graphics, infographics, and corporate branding. Select projects that demonstrate your ability to work within established guidelines.
  • Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your years of experience (2-5 years) and highlight key skills mentioned in the job description, such as graphic design, visual communication, motion graphics, collaboration, and brand identity. Use keywords from the job posting.
  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, creative rationale, and experience with client collaboration. Be ready to present your portfolio confidently and discuss your approach to design challenges.
  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the South African Reserve Bank's mission, recent publications, and corporate identity. Understand their role in the South African economy to better align your application and interview responses.

⚠️ 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.