Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director Company: Elmwood Brand Consultancy Location: Shanghai, Shanghai Shi, China Job Type: Full-Time Category: Brand & Packaging Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-08-21 Experience Level: 8+ Years (Senior Level) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creative vision and execution for premium FMCG packaging design projects, with a specific focus on the Food & Beverage, Beauty & Personal Care, and Beers, Wines & Spirits sectors.
• Drive commercial and creative effectiveness by collaborating with internal teams and leveraging design expertise to meet client needs and exceed expectations.
• Foster a dynamic and inspiring creative environment, motivating and developing the design team to achieve high standards of quality and innovation.
• Contribute to the growth and strategic direction of the Shanghai office by supporting new business development, pitches, and client presentations.
• Maintain a high level of awareness regarding current design trends, competitor activity, and evolving consumer culture to ensure relevant and impactful brand solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior design leadership role within a brand consultancy, requiring a blend of creative direction, project management, and client-facing responsibilities. The emphasis on premium FMCG packaging, particularly in specific categories, indicates a need for specialized industry knowledge. The "Operations" aspect pertains to the management and execution of design projects, team leadership, and agency growth, rather than traditional back-office operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the design process for new projects and pitches, from concept ideation through to final execution of Branded Packaging design solutions.
• Provide expert creative direction and hands-on design support for premium FMCG packaging, ensuring conceptual originality and high-quality output.
• Collaborate closely with Client Servicing teams to understand client briefs, translate strategic objectives into design concepts, and present work effectively.
• Actively participate in and support the New Business Development team by contributing to pitches, proposals, and new client acquisition efforts.
• Oversee and mentor project designers, guiding their day-to-day work to maintain creative excellence, ensure project timelines are met, and foster skill development.
• Conduct internal reviews and provide constructive feedback to design teams, ensuring all work aligns with brand strategy and client expectations.
• Proactively research and stay informed about global and local design trends, consumer behavior shifts, and competitor strategies within the FMCG landscape.
• Contribute to the development of the design team's capabilities and the overall creative culture within the Shanghai office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a significant leadership component, requiring the candidate to not only execute design but also to manage the creative output of others and contribute to the business development of the consultancy. The focus on "supporting CD" implies a collaborative leadership structure with a Chief Designer.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Graphic Design, Brand Design, or a related creative field. Experience: Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in packaging design, with a significant portion spent within a reputable, 'named' design agency environment. Proven experience working with global premium and masstige FMCG brands is essential.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for high-fidelity visualization and execution.
• Strong conceptualization and idea generation skills, with a proven ability to develop original and compelling design solutions.
• Advanced sketching abilities for rapid concept development and communication.
• Demonstrated experience in leading packaging design projects from brief to completion.
• Proven ability to manage client relationships and present design concepts persuasively.
• Experience in guiding and mentoring junior designers and creative teams.
• Deep understanding of premium FMCG brand aesthetics and market trends across Food & Beverage, Beauty/Personal Care, and Alcohol sectors.
• Ability to contribute to new business pitches and proposal development.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with structural design principles and experience in collaborating with structural designers.
• An appreciation for and understanding of Chinese consumer culture and its impact on brand design.
• Experience working in a multicultural team environment.
• Some knowledge or experience with 3D visualization software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "named agency" experience suggests a preference for candidates from well-recognized and awarded design firms. The emphasis on an "appreciation for the challenges and possibilities afforded by designing for an ever changing and rapidly developing consumer culture" indicates a need for adaptability and cultural intelligence, particularly relevant for the Shanghai market.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of high-impact packaging design projects, showcasing expertise in premium FMCG brands within Food & Beverage, Beauty/Personal Care, and Alcohol categories.
• Demonstrations of original concept development, visual execution, and final packaged product outcomes.
• Evidence of leading design projects, including project scope, your role, and the creative process undertaken.
• Case studies that highlight your strategic thinking, problem-solving approach, and ability to translate client briefs into effective design solutions.
• Examples that illustrate your collaboration with other creative disciplines or specialists (e.g., structural designers, copywriters).

Process Documentation:

• Case studies that detail the design process, from initial client brief and research through concept development, refinement, and final delivery.
• Visual documentation of the design journey, including mood boards, sketches, mood boards, and digital renderings.
• Evidence of how you managed project timelines, client feedback, and internal reviews to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Examples of how you've adapted design strategies based on market trends, consumer insights, or competitive analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role, serving as the primary evidence of creative capability and project leadership. The emphasis should be on quality, strategic thinking, and demonstrable impact on brand perception and commercial success within the specified FMCG categories.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Director role with 8+ years of experience in Shanghai, with a focus on brand consultancy and premium FMCG packaging, the estimated annual salary range would be ¥600,000 - ¥1,000,000 CNY.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package (medical, dental, vision).
• Paid time off, including annual leave, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and access to industry conferences.
• Opportunities for international collaboration and exposure within the global MSQ network.
• Contribution to a dynamic and culturally rich work environment with a diverse team.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and career advancement within the consultancy.

Working Hours: Typically a 40-hour work week, Monday to Friday, with flexibility often expected to meet project deadlines and client demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific salary and benefits were not provided, the estimation is based on typical compensation for senior creative leadership roles in international consultancies operating in major global cities like Shanghai, considering the specialized nature of premium FMCG packaging design.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Brand Design Consultancy / Marketing Services (MSQ Agency) Company Size: Approximately 40 employees in the Shanghai office, with a global presence of 200 talents. This size offers a balance of intimate team collaboration and the resources of a larger international network. Founded: Elmwood has been building brands for 40 years globally. The Shanghai office contributes to this legacy with a local team of 40 diverse talents.

Team Structure:

• The design team in Shanghai likely operates with a hierarchical structure, including a Chief Designer (CD), Design Directors, Senior Designers, Designers, and Junior Designers.
• This role reports to the Chief Designer (CD) and will work closely with Client Servicing, New Business Development, and potentially other MSQ agency disciplines.
• Cross-functional collaboration is key, integrating design with data science and digital expertise from other MSQ agencies to create holistic brand solutions.

Methodology:

• Elmwood's methodology focuses on translating "tensions into brand power" to accelerate brand growth, emphasizing strategic thinking behind creative output.
• The integration with MSQ siblings suggests a data-driven approach combined with creative excellence, aiming for "design that is fit for the digital world."
• Emphasis is placed on creating "meaningful and memorable brands" through a rigorous design process.

Company Website: elmwood.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's positioning as a global brand design consultancy with a strong emphasis on strategic creative solutions and integration with data science (via MSQ) suggests a culture that values both artistic talent and commercial acumen. The Shanghai office's diversity is highlighted as a strength.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, equivalent to a Director level in a creative agency context. It signifies a significant level of responsibility in project leadership, team management, and client engagement.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director will likely report directly to the Chief Designer (CD) of the Shanghai office and may also have reporting lines or strong collaborations with the Head of Client Servicing and New Business Development.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on Elmwood's reputation, client satisfaction, and revenue generation through successful project delivery and new business acquisition. The quality of work produced by the design team under this Director's leadership directly influences the agency's standing and ability to win awards and attract prestigious clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Chief Designer roles within Elmwood or other MSQ agencies, or to lead larger creative teams.
• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape the creative strategy and direction of the Shanghai office and contribute to global initiatives.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific FMCG categories or explore broader brand strategy and innovation roles.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain exposure and collaborate with data science, digital strategy, and other marketing disciplines within the MSQ network, broadening skill sets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for advancement within a reputable global brand consultancy, providing opportunities to enhance creative leadership skills, strategic thinking, and business development capabilities. The integration with MSQ presents unique cross-functional learning opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Elmwood operates as a professional creative consultancy. The Shanghai office is likely a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and client interaction. Office Location(s): Shanghai, Shanghai Shi, China. This is a major international hub, offering a vibrant professional environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with open-plan areas for team interaction and dedicated spaces for focused design work.
• Access to high-performance workstations with industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially visualization tools.
• Opportunities for informal and formal collaboration with designers, account managers, strategists, and business development teams.
• The environment will be dynamic, driven by project cycles, client pitches, and the fast-paced nature of the FMCG industry.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but given the nature of design leadership and client-facing roles, flexibility is often required to meet project deadlines, attend client meetings, and present work. This could occasionally involve working beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The expectation is a professional, creative, and collaborative office environment typical of leading design consultancies. The emphasis on "40 talents from different nationalities" in Shanghai suggests a diverse and international workplace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess experience, skills, and alignment with the role's requirements.
• Creative/Portfolio Review: In-depth discussion with the Chief Designer and potentially other senior creatives to review your portfolio, delve into your design process, and discuss your approach to packaging design challenges.
• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with members of the Client Servicing and New Business Development teams to assess collaboration skills, client management approach, and understanding of business objectives.
• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership (potentially regional or global) to assess strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your leadership, creativity, and expertise in premium FMCG packaging.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making processes within each project.
• Showcase Process: Include examples of conceptual development, sketching, mood boards, and rationale behind your design choices.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or client feedback that demonstrate the success or impact of your designs (e.g., market share, brand perception improvements).
• Tailor to Elmwood: Research Elmwood's work and clients to understand their aesthetic and strategic approach, and be prepared to discuss how your work aligns.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design challenge or case study that requires you to present a concept or solution for a hypothetical FMCG brand brief.
• Practice presenting your work clearly, concisely, and persuasively, focusing on the strategic thinking behind your creative output.
• Anticipate questions about your design philosophy, how you stay current with trends, how you handle client feedback, and how you motivate creative teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize both creative output and strategic thinking, with a strong emphasis on portfolio quality and presentation. Candidates should be ready to articulate their process, leadership style, and understanding of the FMCG market.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency required in Illustrator and Photoshop for all aspects of visual design and execution.
• Sketching Tools: Proficiency in manual sketching for ideation and concept development.
• Visualization Software: Familiarity with tools for creating realistic mockups and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct "operations" tool in the traditional sense, an understanding of how design impacts brand performance metrics (e.g., sales, market share, brand recall) is crucial. Familiarity with market research and retail trend analysis tools would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but an understanding of how client management and project workflows are handled within an agency context is implied through client servicing collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are centered around industry-standard design software. The "operations" aspect pertains to efficient project execution and team management using these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creative Excellence: A commitment to producing innovative, high-quality design solutions that drive brand power.
• Strategic Thinking: Applying a deep understanding of brands, consumers, and markets to inform design decisions.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams (Client Servicing, New Business) and external partners to achieve shared goals.
• Client Focus: Understanding and exceeding client expectations through strong communication and tailored design solutions.
• Growth Mindset: Continuously learning, adapting to new trends, and developing personal and team capabilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively collaborating with Client Servicing to ensure design aligns with commercial objectives and with New Business to win new projects.
• Team Mentorship: Fostering a supportive environment where junior designers are mentored, guided, and encouraged to develop.
• Feedback Culture: Open to giving and receiving constructive feedback to elevate the quality of creative work and personal development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Elmwood's culture likely values creativity, strategic thinking, and a strong client-centric approach. The emphasis on collaboration and professional development suggests an environment that supports both individual growth and collective success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Diverse Consumer Culture: Adapting design strategies to the rapidly evolving and unique consumer landscape in China.
• Balancing Creative Vision with Commercial Demands: Ensuring innovative designs meet client objectives, budgets, and timelines.
• Leading and Motivating a Diverse Team: Inspiring a team of designers with varied backgrounds and skill sets to produce at their best.
• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously identifying and integrating emerging design trends and technologies into client solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Global Best Practices: Learning from and collaborating with international teams within the MSQ network.
• Deepening FMCG Expertise: Gaining specialized knowledge across a range of premium consumer goods categories.
• Strategic Brand Development: Enhancing skills in brand strategy, positioning, and market analysis through project involvement.
• Leadership Training: Potential for formal leadership development programs within MSQ.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges inherent in a leading design consultancy, requiring adaptability, strong leadership, and a commitment to continuous learning in a dynamic market. Growth opportunities are significant, emphasizing leadership and strategic development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing original packaging concepts for premium FMCG brands. How do you ensure differentiation in a crowded market?"
• "Walk us through a project where you successfully translated a complex client brief into a compelling design solution. What was your process, and what was the outcome?"
• "How do you balance creative ambition with client budget and timeline constraints? Provide an example."
• "How do you stay current with design trends, and how do you incorporate them into your work without compromising brand integrity?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Elmwood and our work in the premium FMCG sector?"
• "How would you contribute to fostering a creative and collaborative environment within our Shanghai team?"
• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate and develop creative talent."
• "How do you approach building relationships with clients and managing their expectations?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative is Key: Structure your portfolio presentation as a story for each project, detailing the challenge, your solution, and the impact.
• Focus on Rationale: Be prepared to explain the "why" behind your design choices – the strategic thinking, research, and insights that informed your decisions.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually polished and easy to follow, using high-quality images and clear typography.
• Conciseness: Respect the interviewer's time; be focused and impactful in your delivery.
• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for design and for contributing to Elmwood's success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the design process, strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and a genuine interest in Elmwood’s work and the FMCG market.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the application portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your strongest premium FMCG packaging design work, especially within Food & Beverage, Beauty/Personal Care, and Alcohol categories. Clearly articulate your leadership role in each project.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of experience in 'named' agencies, your expertise in Illustrator/Photoshop, and your success in leading creative projects and teams. Use keywords like "packaging design," "brand strategy," "creative leadership," and "FMCG."
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Elmwood's recent work, client roster, and their overall brand philosophy. Understand their integration with MSQ and how design fits into their broader offering.
• Practice Your Pitch: Prepare a concise and compelling overview of your experience and a walkthrough of 2-3 key portfolio pieces, ready for discussion during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.