Experiential Graphic Designer V

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Graphic Designer V Company: CannonDesign Location: New York, NY Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design Operations / Creative Operations Date Posted: October 27, 2025 Experience Level: Senior (12+ years) Remote Status: Hybrid (Implied by general benefits offering flex-time and remote work options, but specific days in office not defined)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the conceptualization and design development of complex experiential graphics projects, driving team workflow and process optimization.
• Cultivate and manage high-level client relationships, acting as a senior specialist and subject matter expert within firm leadership.
• Spearhead business development initiatives, engaging clients and identifying opportunities to expand the Experiential Graphics practice's reach and impact.
• Mentor and develop the design team, imparting expertise in technical skills, business strategy, art direction, and compelling storytelling.
• Champion the firm's "Living-Centered Design" ethos, integrating best practices and promoting the team's work internally and externally.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Experiential Graphic Designer," the responsibilities and experience level (12+ years) strongly indicate a senior leadership and business development component, aligning it with a strategic operations or practice management function within a design context. The emphasis on client relationships, team mentorship, and business growth positions this role as crucial for the operational success and expansion of the Experiential Graphics practice.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategy:
  • Lead conceptual and design development for multiple high-profile projects, defining and optimizing team workflow and process.
  • Serve as a senior specialist in firm leadership, actively contributing to strategic decision-making and practice growth.
  • Drive business development efforts, engaging existing and prospective clients to expand opportunities for the Experiential Graphics team.
  • Mentor junior designers on technical proficiencies, strategic thinking, art direction, and effective client communication.
  • Develop and execute strategies for sharing the team's work across internal and external platforms, including design award submissions and social media engagement.
• Creative Execution & Vision:
  • Oversee projects from initial strategy and concept development through to final design execution, acting as the primary project leader.
  • Translate complex client needs, visions, and strategies into compelling and unique design solutions across various media.
  • Provide expert direction and oversight for the documentation of graphic programs, wayfinding systems, donor recognition programs, and interpretive exhibits.
  • Champion and integrate CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy into all project phases and team practices.
• Collaboration & Project Management:
  • Manage diverse project teams, providing clear creative and artistic direction from project inception to completion.
  • Conduct thorough reviews of shop drawings and submittals during construction administration phases to ensure design integrity.
  • Facilitate productive team calls and foster a culture of constructive design critique and feedback exchange.
  • Coordinate effectively with vendors, fabricators, and external consultants to ensure seamless project execution.
  • Promote the Experiential Graphics team's expertise and capabilities across CannonDesign's broader network of disciplines and services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative leadership, strategic business development, and operational management. The "Lead conceptual and design development across multiple projects, including team workflow and process" and "Guide business development and team growth, including marketing pursuits and internal team initiatives" points are particularly indicative of operational oversight within the practice.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum Bachelor degree in Graphic Design, Architecture, or a related design field is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 12 years of directly related professional experience in experiential graphic design or a closely aligned field.
• Proven track record of leading complex design projects from concept through completion.
• Demonstrated experience in client relationship management and business development within the design or architecture industry.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional and diverse design portfolio showcasing a strong background in various markets, with a particular emphasis on high-end workplace environments.
• Superior typography skills and a keen eye for visual hierarchy and aesthetic appeal.
• Robust communication and interpersonal skills, with proven strategies for effective collaboration in fast-paced, complex project teams.
• Strong knowledge of signage and wayfinding design principles, methodologies, and best practices.
• Deep and comprehensive understanding of all facets of experiential design, from concept to fabrication.
• Proven client leadership capabilities and the ability to guide production teams on large, complex projects.
• Critical thinking, strong analytical skills, and a solid business acumen to drive practice growth.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and execution.
• Meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and quality in all deliverables.
• Proficiency on Mac operating systems with expert-level skills in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

Preferred Skills:

• Skills in Revit and SketchUp are considered a plus, indicating a potential need for familiarity with architectural design software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement and the emphasis on leadership, client management, and business development indicate this role is more than a senior designer; it requires operational leadership within the design practice. The "Living-Centered Design" ethos suggests a focus on human-centric design processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a minimum of 12 years of experience, with a strong emphasis on high-end workplace environments.
• Projects should clearly illustrate leadership in conceptualization, design development, and execution of complex experiential graphics, including wayfinding, signage, and interpretive exhibits.
• Showcase a deep understanding of typography, visual storytelling, and translating client missions into tangible design experiences.
• Include examples of client engagement, demonstrating the ability to build relationships and guide clients through the design process.
• Highlight any experience with business development, marketing pursuits, or team growth initiatives within a design practice.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design and optimization for experiential graphics projects.
• Case studies demonstrating the process of translating client needs into compelling design concepts and final execution.
• Documentation of collaboration with cross-functional teams (interior designers, architects) and external vendors/fabricators.
• Evidence of managing projects from strategy through to final design, including construction administration phases.
• Showcase how "Living-Centered Design" principles are integrated into the team's process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior level and leadership responsibilities, the portfolio is expected to demonstrate not just design output but also strategic thinking, process management, and leadership capabilities within the design practice.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $118,030 - $147,538 annually for the New York City office.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
• Voluntary insurance plans.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and flex-time scheduling.
• Remote work options available, contributing to a flexible work environment.
• 401k retirement savings plan.
• Employee perk programs.
• Access to a general overview of benefits on the CannonDesign careers page.

Working Hours:

• Standard professional working hours are implied, with flexibility offered through flex-time schedules and remote work options. The role likely requires exceeding standard hours during peak project phases, typical for senior leadership positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to New York City. The "flex-time schedules" and "remote work options" suggest a modern, adaptable work environment that values work-life balance, which is increasingly important for senior-level operations and design professionals. The inclusion of "remote work options" within the benefits, despite the role being listed as Hybrid, suggests a degree of flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Design Services. CannonDesign operates within the built environment sector, focusing on creating impactful spaces through integrated design strategies. Company Size: CannonDesign is a large, established firm, likely employing several thousand professionals across multiple offices globally. This scale suggests robust internal processes, extensive resources, and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration. Founded: CannonDesign has a long history, founded in 1915, indicating a stable, experienced organization with deeply ingrained values and a rich legacy in design and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Experiential Graphic Design team is a specialized unit within CannonDesign, likely comprising a mix of senior designers, designers, and potentially project managers.
• The "Experiential Graphic Designer V" reports to a senior leadership position within the Experiential Graphics practice or a broader design leadership role.
• Close collaboration is expected with architects, interior designers, and other discipline leads across various project types (commercial workplaces, healthcare, sports).

Methodology:

• Living-Centered Design: This is the core philosophy, emphasizing human experience, well-being, and positive social impact in all design solutions. It drives a user-centric and empathetic approach to problem-solving.
• Data-Driven Insights: While not explicitly stated for this role, a firm of this caliber likely leverages data analysis and user research to inform design strategies and measure impact.
• Collaborative Workflow: The emphasis on collaboration suggests a process that involves extensive cross-functional teamwork, critique, and shared decision-making.

Company Website: https://www.cannondesign.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy is a key differentiator and should be understood by applicants as a guiding principle for their work and decision-making. The company's history and size suggest a well-structured environment with established operational procedures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level, leadership-track position within the Experiential Graphics practice. It goes beyond individual contribution to encompass practice management, business development, and team mentorship. The "V" designation implies a high level of expertise and responsibility, likely one or two steps from the most senior leadership roles.

Reporting Structure:

• The Experiential Graphic Designer V will likely report to a Principal, Director of Design, or Practice Leader within the Experiential Graphics or broader Design division.
• They will be responsible for leading and mentoring a team of designers, which could include junior to mid-level professionals.

Operations Impact:

• This role has a significant impact on the firm's revenue generation through business development and client retention.
• It directly influences the quality, innovation, and successful delivery of experiential graphics projects, enhancing CannonDesign's reputation and client satisfaction.
• By mentoring and developing talent, the role contributes to the long-term operational capacity and expertise of the practice.

Growth Opportunities:

• Practice Leadership: Potential to advance into roles such as Principal, Director of Experiential Graphics, or lead specialized market sectors.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of experiential design, such as complex wayfinding systems, interactive installations, or sports branding.
• Business Development: Further develop a strong client portfolio and lead larger, more strategic business development initiatives.
• Thought Leadership: Contribute to industry publications, speak at conferences, and become a recognized voice in experiential design and Living-Centered Design.
• Mentorship & Training: Take on expanded roles in developing and delivering internal training programs for the design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "V" designation in the title, coupled with the extensive experience and responsibilities, strongly suggests a role focused on practice leadership and operational strategy, not just design execution. This is a key differentiator for operations-minded candidates.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: CannonDesign operates a hybrid work model. This means employees are expected to work from the New York City office for a portion of the week, with flexibility for remote work. The office environment is likely designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused work.

Office Location(s):

• New York, NY: A major metropolitan hub offering extensive professional opportunities and a vibrant urban setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office likely features open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated project spaces designed to foster interaction and idea exchange among design disciplines.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), potentially architectural modeling tools (Revit, SketchUp), and project management systems.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with architects, interior designers, and other CannonDesign professionals, facilitating cross-pollination of ideas and integrated project delivery.

Work Schedule:

• While a standard work week is implied, the role offers flexibility through "flex-time schedules" and "remote work options," allowing for adaptation to project demands and personal needs. This flexibility is crucial for managing complex projects and maintaining work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment, combined with flex-time, indicates a modern approach to workplace operations that prioritizes both collaboration and individual productivity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio by HR and/or a hiring manager to assess qualifications and fit.
2. Portfolio Presentation & Review: A formal presentation of the candidate's portfolio, focusing on key projects, design process, leadership, and business development successes. Expect in-depth questions about project challenges, solutions, and client interactions.
3. Team & Leadership Interviews: Interviews with design leaders, potential peers, and senior management to evaluate leadership style, collaboration skills, strategic thinking, and cultural alignment with CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" ethos.
4. Business Development & Strategy Discussion: A session focused on understanding the candidate's approach to client engagement, practice growth, and operational leadership.
5. Final Interview: Potential interview with a senior executive to finalize hiring decisions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate leadership, complex problem-solving, client management, business development impact, and your ability to translate strategy into tangible design. Prioritize workplace environments.
• Tell a Story: For each project, articulate the client's challenge, your strategic approach, the design process, your specific role and leadership contributions, and the measurable impact or outcome.
• Highlight Operations: Showcase how you managed workflows, teams, and client expectations. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., project value, client satisfaction metrics, team efficiency improvements).
• Showcase "Living-Centered Design": Explain how your design process and outcomes align with this philosophy.
• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to discuss your design philosophy, leadership style, business development strategies, and how you mentor teams.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case studies or hypothetical scenarios related to managing difficult client situations, resolving team conflicts, or developing new business opportunities.
• Practice articulating your strategic approach to complex design and operational challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review and potential case studies suggests a rigorous evaluation process designed to assess not only design talent but also the operational and strategic capabilities required for a senior leadership role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency required in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for graphic design and production.
• Architectural/3D Modeling (Preferred): Familiarity with Revit and SketchUp is a significant advantage, indicating potential for integration with architectural workflows and visualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, a senior role in a large firm would benefit from familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Monday.com) for tracking progress, resources, and team performance.
• Understanding of reporting tools for business development metrics and practice performance analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) would be beneficial for managing client relationships and tracking business development activities.
• Familiarity with any internal firm-specific systems for project management, client communication, or resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Suite proficiency and the "plus" for Revit/SketchUp clearly defines the core technical requirements. The inferred need for project management and CRM tools highlights the operational aspects of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Adoration: A core value focused on exceeding client expectations through consistent, high-quality service and delivery. This translates to a proactive, problem-solving approach in all operations.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (DEI): CannonDesign is committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive environment, supporting DEI Council initiatives and Employee Resource Groups. This impacts how teams are built, managed, and how projects are approached.
• Communication and Transparency: An open-door policy and emphasis on clear communication are valued, encouraging employees to voice ideas and address challenges directly. This fosters an operational environment where feedback is encouraged.
• "Living-Centered Design": This overarching philosophy guides all work, prioritizing human experience, empathy, and positive social impact. It means operations and design decisions are evaluated through this lens.
• Innovation and Excellence: A relentless pursuit of creating extraordinary work and pushing the boundaries of design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Disciplinary: Highly collaborative, requiring seamless integration with architects, interior designers, and other CannonDesign disciplines to deliver holistic solutions.
• Critique-Focused: Encourages lively design critique sessions, fostering continuous improvement and shared learning within the team.
• Transparent Communication: Open dialogue is encouraged to share ideas, address challenges, and ensure alignment across project teams and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Client Adoration" and "Living-Centered Design" points to operational priorities that are client-centric and human-focused, respectively. DEI initiatives are also a significant cultural factor influencing team dynamics and operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Business Objectives: Effectively aligning ambitious design concepts with client budgets, timelines, and business development goals.
• Leading Diverse Teams: Managing and motivating teams with varied skill sets and perspectives to deliver cohesive and high-quality work.
• Driving Business Development: Consistently identifying and securing new business opportunities in a competitive market.
• Integrating "Living-Centered Design": Ensuring this philosophy is not just a talking point but is deeply integrated into every operational and design decision.
• Navigating Complex Projects: Overseeing large-scale, multi-faceted projects with multiple stakeholders and potential challenges during construction administration.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Formal and informal opportunities to hone leadership, business development, and strategic planning skills.
• Industry Engagement: Potential to attend industry conferences, participate in award programs, and contribute to publications, enhancing professional visibility and expertise.
• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within CannonDesign and opportunities to mentor emerging talent.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain exposure to a wide range of design disciplines and project types, broadening professional knowledge.
• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in niche areas of experiential graphics or practice management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding these challenges and growth opportunities is crucial for operations professionals who seek roles where they can not only execute but also shape and improve practice operations and strategic direction.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading conceptual development and team workflow for complex experiential graphics projects." (Focus on process, collaboration, and efficiency.)
• "How do you build and maintain strong client relationships, particularly when engaging in business development efforts?" (Highlight client management, communication, and sales strategy.)
• "Walk us through a time you mentored a design team member. What was the challenge, your approach, and the outcome?" (Demonstrate leadership, coaching, and impact.)
• "How would you integrate CannonDesign's 'Living-Centered Design' philosophy into the daily operations of the Experiential Graphics team?" (Showcase understanding of company values and practical application.)
• "Discuss a challenging project you led from strategy to final design. What were the key operational hurdles, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on problem-solving, project management, and resilience.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to CannonDesign and our 'Living-Centered Design' approach?" (Research the firm's mission, values, and recent projects.)
• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially within a hybrid work setting?" (Align your approach with CannonDesign's DEI and communication values.)
• "How do you stay current with industry trends in experiential graphics and design practice management?" (Showcase continuous learning and professional development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a high-level overview of your experience and leadership philosophy. Then, present 2-3 key projects, focusing on those that best exemplify your leadership, business development, and operational management skills, particularly workplace environments.
• Quantify Operations: For each project, highlight your role in workflow optimization, team management, client engagement for business development, and any measurable outcomes (e.g., project scope, client retention, team efficiency).
• "Living-Centered Design" Integration: Explicitly connect your project decisions and outcomes to the firm's core philosophy.
• Be Prepared for Business Acumen Questions: Discuss how you identify opportunities, develop proposals, and contribute to the financial health of a design practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation focuses heavily on leadership, business development, and operational strategy, reinforcing the senior operational nature of this design role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experiential Graphic Designer V position:

• Submit your application directly through the CannonDesign Careers site via the provided URL to ensure it is received through official channels.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to specifically highlight your experience in workplace environments, leadership of complex projects, client relationship management, and any business development contributions. Emphasize projects demonstrating your operational approach to design process and team management.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 12+ years of experience, leadership responsibilities, and achievements in experiential graphics, design strategy, and practice management. Incorporate keywords such as "Experiential Design," "Wayfinding," "Signage," "Client Leadership," "Business Development," and "Team Mentorship."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your strategic approach to design leadership, client engagement, and operational challenges. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to drive business growth and mentor teams, aligning with CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" ethos, their project portfolio (especially in workplace design), and their commitment to DEI. Understand how your operational and leadership approach can contribute to their mission.

⚠️ 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.