Creative Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Creative Designer Company: KI Location: Green Bay, WI, US Job Type: Full-Time Category: Marketing & Design Date Posted: 2025-11-14 Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in shaping and safeguarding the KI brand's visual identity across all marketing touchpoints.
• The Creative Designer will be responsible for conceptualizing and executing compelling design solutions for multi-channel marketing initiatives, ensuring brand consistency and innovation.
• They will translate strategic objectives into visually impactful creative assets for digital, print, and environmental mediums.
• This position requires a strong understanding of layout, typography, color theory, and composition to bring creative visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Creative Designer" and the responsibilities described, such as developing creative concepts for marketing initiatives, designing print and digital materials, and art directing photoshoots, clearly place this role within the Marketing & Design category. The minimum experience requirement of 3 years suggests a mid-level position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Art Direction & Creative Design:
  • Develop innovative creative concepts for marketing initiatives that align with the KI brand, its core markets, and product offerings.
  • Conceptualize and execute comprehensive creative packages for marketing campaigns and deliverables.
  • Design a wide range of print marketing materials, including advertisements, brochures, presentations, signage, and other collateral.
  • Create engaging digital marketing assets such as web pages, email campaigns, online advertisements, and interactive brochures.
  • Design experiential elements for trade shows and showrooms, including graphics and environmental artwork.
  • Provide creative direction, develop shot lists, and art direct photoshoots and rendering sessions.
• Design Production:
  • Ensure adherence to established creative direction and graphic standards in all design executions.
  • Utilize existing design templates, paragraph styles, color palettes, and graphic libraries to maintain visual cohesion across all materials.
  • Perform advanced image editing for both print and digital applications.
  • Prepare, pre-flight, and transmit high-resolution final files to vendors for production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description explicitly lists core duties under "Specific responsibilities include:". These have been expanded and categorized for clarity, emphasizing the strategic and execution aspects expected of a Creative Designer. The mention of "marketing initiatives," "campaign creative graphics package," and "marketing deliverables" points directly to GTM support.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Web Design, Digital Design, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in graphic design and/or digital marketing, preferably within corporate and/or agency environments.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in design software, specifically the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator).
• Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest) for marketing applications.
• Excellent skills in layout, typography, color theory, and overall visual composition.
• Ability to translate strategic marketing objectives into compelling visual designs.
• Strong understanding of print production processes and digital asset creation.

Preferred Skills:

• Baseline knowledge and experience in photography, animation, and video editing.
• Experience in User Interface (UI) design.
• Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and/or JavaScript.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "What you Need to Succeed" section directly translates into the required and preferred skills. The "minimum 3 years' experience" and "Bachelor's degree" are the primary educational and experience requirements. The AI's identification of specific software and technical skills is directly supported by the text. The "plus" items are categorized as preferred skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, demonstrating conceptual thinking and execution across various mediums (print, digital, environmental).
• Case studies that highlight the design process from concept to final output, emphasizing problem-solving and strategic alignment.
• Examples of work that illustrate an understanding of brand consistency and visual storytelling.
• Projects that demonstrate proficiency in applying established graphic standards and leveraging design templates.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate the design process, including concept development, iteration, stakeholder feedback integration, and final asset delivery.
• Documentation or presentation of how design solutions were developed to meet specific marketing objectives or solve business challenges.
• Examples of how design standards and brand guidelines were applied consistently across multiple projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "Creative Designer" role, especially one involving "marketing initiatives" and "campaign creative graphics," inherently requires a strong portfolio that demonstrates design process, execution, and brand adherence. The responsibilities imply the need to work within established brand guidelines and templates.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range for a Creative Designer with 3-5 years of experience in Green Bay, WI: $55,000 - $75,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Midwest region, considering the company's industry (manufacturing/furniture) and the specified experience level.

Benefits:

• Participation in KI's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Competitive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match.
• Paid Vacation, Sick Days, and Holidays.
• On-site Wellness Resources: Fitness center, fitness reimbursement, on-site nurse.
• On-site Cafe.
• Employee Product Discounts.
• Educational Reimbursement Program.
• Comprehensive Full Benefits Package including life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely 40 hours per week, with the expectation of on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are directly listed in the job description. The salary range is an estimation based on the location (Green Bay, WI), experience level (3 years minimum), and job title, using general industry data for similar roles. The "40" for working hours is a standard assumption for full-time employment when not otherwise specified.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Manufacturing (Business, University, Healthcare, Government furniture). KI positions itself as a company that "Furnishes Knowledge" by understanding customer needs and providing smart furniture solutions. Company Size: KI is a significant player in the furniture industry, implying a medium to large-sized organization. The presence of an ESOP and comprehensive benefits suggests a well-established company structure. Founded: 1941. This long history indicates stability, experience, and a deep understanding of the market.

Team Structure:

• The Creative Designer will likely be part of a Marketing or Creative department.
• Reporting structure is not explicitly defined but would typically be to a Marketing Manager, Creative Director, or similar leadership role.
• Collaboration is expected with marketing teams, product teams, and potentially sales and internal communications for various initiatives.

Methodology:

• KI emphasizes understanding customer needs and providing personalized solutions.
• The company focuses on specific markets (business, university, education, healthcare, government) to offer targeted solutions.
• Design is a critical component of their value proposition, as indicated by the need for a Creative Designer to shape brand image and create compelling visuals.

Company Website: ki.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description, founding date, and specialties provide context for the industry and culture. The emphasis on customer understanding and targeted markets informs the expectations for marketing and design efforts.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Creative Designer, requiring 3+ years of experience. It involves significant responsibility for brand representation and creative execution across multiple channels.

Reporting Structure: The Creative Designer will likely report to a Marketing Director, Creative Manager, or Senior Designer, collaborating closely with marketing specialists and potentially product managers.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the company's external perception and brand image. High-quality, consistent creative assets are crucial for attracting customers, supporting sales efforts, and reinforcing brand messaging across all markets (business, university, healthcare, government). Effective design directly contributes to lead generation and brand recognition, which are key GTM metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific design areas (e.g., digital design, experiential design, UI/UX).
• Advancement: Progression to Senior Creative Designer, Art Director, or Creative Lead roles within the marketing department as experience and leadership skills develop.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to expand into new design software, animation, video editing, or even basic web development (HTML/CSS). Mentorship from senior team members or external training can foster growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's requirements (3+ years experience, Bachelor's degree) and responsibilities (art direction, multi-channel design) indicate a mid-level position. The impact on brand image and marketing initiatives directly ties into GTM success. Growth paths are inferred from typical career trajectories for designers in corporate marketing departments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office setting within KI's facilities in Green Bay, WI. Office Location(s): Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities to interact with marketing colleagues and potentially other departments.
• Access to necessary design software and technology will be provided.
• The environment will likely foster creativity and innovation, supporting the development of compelling marketing materials.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time business hours, typically Monday through Friday. The role requires consistent on-site presence to fulfill its responsibilities effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" remote status dictates the work environment description. The company's focus on product design and marketing suggests an environment that values visual aesthetics and creative output.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative aptitude.
• Creative Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or portfolio review session with the hiring manager and/or senior design team members. This will evaluate conceptual thinking, technical skills, and understanding of brand guidelines.
• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions to assess problem-solving abilities, collaboration skills, and how the candidate approaches creative briefs and feedback.
• Cultural Fit: Discussions to ensure alignment with KI's values and team dynamics.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Brand Alignment: Curate projects that demonstrate your ability to work within existing brand guidelines or adapt to new ones. Highlight how your designs supported specific marketing goals.
• Demonstrate Process: For each project, explain your thought process, the challenges you faced, and how you arrived at your final solution. Use visuals to illustrate key stages.
• Highlight Versatility: Include examples across different mediums (print, digital, environmental) to showcase your range.
• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any of your designs contributed to measurable outcomes (e.g., increased engagement, successful campaign launch), be prepared to discuss it.
• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly shows your mastery of Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant design tools.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to a creative brief under time constraints.
• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely.
• Prepare to receive and incorporate feedback, demonstrating flexibility and a collaborative spirit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The typical interview process for a design role, especially with a portfolio requirement, involves initial screening, a portfolio review/design challenge, and behavioral interviews. The advice is tailored to a Creative Designer role, emphasizing the importance of showcasing brand consistency and creative process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • InDesign: Essential for layout and print design (brochures, presentations, signage).
  • Photoshop: Crucial for image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: Key for vector graphics, logos, icons, and detailed illustrations.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • PowerPoint: For creating presentations and internal marketing collateral.
  • Word: For document creation and copy integration.
  • Excel: For data visualization or minor data handling related to design projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) might be beneficial for understanding digital asset performance, though not explicitly required.

CRM & Automation:

• Experience with marketing automation platforms (e.g., HubSpot, Marketo) or CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) could be a plus for understanding campaign context and asset deployment, but is not a core requirement.

Other Potential Tools:

• Photography/Videography Equipment: Baseline knowledge implies potential involvement in art direction or execution.
• Animation Software: (e.g., After Effects) for motion graphics.
• UI/UX Design Tools: (e.g., Figma, Sketch) if UI design experience is leveraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly mentions "Adobe Suite, including In-Design, Photoshop, Illustrator" and "Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point)". Other tools are inferred from "Baseline knowledge and experience in photography, animation, and video editing" and "Experience in user interface (UI) design, HTML, CSS and/or JavaScript a plus."

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A core KI value, emphasizing understanding and meeting customer needs through smart solutions. This translates to design that resonates with specific market segments.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Given KI's long history and focus on furniture solutions, a high standard for design execution and visual quality is expected.
• Innovation & Creativity: The role itself embodies this value, requiring the development of fresh, compelling creative concepts.
• Collaboration: Working across multi-channel marketing initiatives necessitates strong teamwork and communication.
• Brand Stewardship: Protecting and enhancing the KI brand image through visual consistency is paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• The Creative Designer will work closely with marketing managers, product marketers, and potentially sales teams to understand campaign objectives and translate them into visual assets.
• Expect a collaborative environment where feedback is exchanged, and design solutions are refined iteratively.
• Cross-functional communication is key to ensuring design aligns with product offerings and market strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: KI's company description highlights understanding customer needs and providing "smart furniture solutions." The role of a Creative Designer inherently requires collaboration and a commitment to brand values. These are inferred from the company's stated mission and the nature of the design role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Consistency: Effectively developing innovative designs while strictly adhering to KI's established brand guidelines and visual standards.
• Managing Multiple Projects & Deadlines: Juggling various design requests from different marketing initiatives and stakeholders, each with its own timeline.
• Translating Complex Concepts: Visually communicating the value proposition of KI's furniture solutions across diverse markets (business, education, healthcare) which may have distinct aesthetic preferences and functional needs.
• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends: Staying current with design best practices, software advancements, and digital marketing trends to ensure KI's visuals remain modern and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Suite or explore new creative tools for animation, video, or UI/UX.
• Industry Best Practices: Learning about the latest trends in marketing design, digital advertising, and experiential design.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining insight into product development, marketing strategy, and sales processes to better inform design decisions.
• Potential for Art Direction: Developing skills in leading photoshoots, directing visual content creation, and guiding junior designers or external resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are inferred from the responsibilities listed and the nature of a creative role within a corporate environment. Growth opportunities are typical for designers looking to advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a creative concept for a new marketing campaign." (Prepare to walk through your ideation, sketching, and refinement stages).
• "How do you ensure brand consistency across different marketing collateral, especially when working with multiple product lines or market segments?" (Highlight your understanding of brand guidelines and systematic approach).
• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you had to overcome a significant design challenge or received critical feedback. How did you handle it?" (Focus on problem-solving, adaptability, and learning).
• "How do you prioritize your workload when faced with multiple urgent design requests?" (Demonstrate organizational skills and communication clarity).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about KI and our position in the furniture industry?" (Research KI's markets, history, and brand messaging).
• "How do you see your design style contributing to KI's brand image and target markets?" (Connect your skills and aesthetic to KI's business goals).
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you collaborate with marketing and other departments." (Emphasize teamwork, communication, and openness to feedback).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects.
• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the objective, your role, the creative process, the challenges, and the outcome.
• Highlight Brand Understanding: Show examples where you successfully applied or developed brand guidelines.
• Showcase Technical Skill: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques you used.
• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to keep it within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., 15-20 minutes), leaving ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are crafted to probe the core competencies and expectations for a Creative Designer role, focusing on creativity, brand management, technical skills, and collaboration, within the context of a company like KI.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Creative Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/kiinc/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/10906
• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in graphic design, digital marketing, and proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, using keywords from the job description (e.g., "marketing initiatives," "creative concepts," "print marketing," "digital marketing").
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your best design work, ensuring it showcases your versatility across print, digital, and environmental mediums. Be ready to articulate your process, brand adherence, and problem-solving skills for each piece.
• Research KI: Understand their product lines, target markets (business, university, healthcare, government), and brand messaging to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit during interviews.
• Practice Your Pitch: Prepare to succinctly explain your design philosophy, your approach to creative briefs, and how your skills align with KI's needs.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially salary and specific interview processes, should be verified directly with KI before making application decisions.