Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Ogilvy MENA Location: Beirut, Lebanon Job Type: Full-Time Category: Creative Services / Operations Support (Design) Date Posted: August 27, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the creative execution and visual design of marketing and advertising materials for Ogilvy MENA clients, requiring a strong understanding of design principles and brand adherence.
• The Graphic Designer will act as a key contributor to the project delivery lifecycle, collaborating closely with client service, project management, and production teams to ensure seamless workflow and high-quality output.
• A significant aspect of the role involves stakeholder communication and presentation of creative work, necessitating strong interpersonal and visual communication skills.
• The position demands a proactive approach to industry trend analysis and continuous improvement within the creative department, contributing to overall agency innovation and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "operations" role like Revenue or Sales Operations, this Graphic Designer position plays a crucial supporting role in the operational efficiency of a creative agency. Their work directly impacts project timelines, client satisfaction, and the agency's ability to deliver on client briefs, making their contribution operational in nature within the creative services domain. The emphasis on collaboration, project management support, and quality assurance aligns with operational objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Creative Concepting and Execution: Develop and refine visual elements for diverse creative outputs, ensuring aesthetic appeal, conceptual integrity, and adherence to client brand guidelines.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with Client Service, Project Managers, Account Managers, and other creative team members to facilitate project flow, manage timelines, and ensure successful project completion.
• Industry Trend Integration: Proactively research and stay abreast of current advertising, design, and digital marketing trends, applying insights strategically to enhance creative solutions and maintain agency relevance.
• Vendor Collaboration and Management: Assist in identifying, commissioning, and managing external creative resources such as illustrators, photographers, and printers, ensuring quality and adherence to project scope.
• Client and Internal Presentation: Prepare and confidently present creative concepts, design rationale, and final deliverables to internal teams and clients, effectively articulating design choices and securing necessary approvals.
• Process Improvement and Innovation: Actively participate in creative brainstorming sessions, contribute to business development pitches, and share knowledge with the design team to foster a culture of continuous learning and enhance the agency's creative product.
• Quality Assurance and Workflow Enhancement: Collaborate with Account, Media, Project Management, and Production teams to uphold the highest standards of quality, boost productivity, and contribute to the group's overall profitability through efficient design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and operational support within the agency. "Quality Assurance" and "Collaboration" with production and project management teams are key operational functions that ensure efficient project delivery and client satisfaction. The role also involves "Vendor Management," which is a critical operational component for resource allocation and cost control in creative projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Advertising Design, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience as a Graphic Designer, with a significant portion of this experience gained within a fast-paced creative agency environment.
• Proven track record of contributing to successful creative campaigns and client projects.

Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Mastery: Exceptional proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and other relevant design software for creating compelling visual assets across various mediums.
• Creative Concepting: Demonstrated ability to generate original ideas and translate them into effective visual designs that meet strategic objectives.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively work with diverse teams including client servicing, project management, and other creative disciplines.
• Client Presentation: Proven ability to present creative work clearly and persuasively to internal stakeholders and clients, articulating design rationale and addressing feedback constructively.
• Industry Awareness: A keen understanding of current advertising, design, and digital marketing trends, with the ability to apply them to creative problem-solving.
• Versatility: Ability to adapt design style and approach to suit different client brands, project requirements, and media platforms.
• Technical Proficiency: Solid understanding of pre-press, print production processes, and digital asset creation requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Art Direction Fundamentals: Basic understanding of art direction principles and ability to contribute to visual storytelling.
• Motion Graphics/Video Editing: Familiarity with motion graphics software (e.g., After Effects) or video editing software (e.g., Premiere Pro) can be an advantage.
• UI/UX Design Principles: Basic knowledge of user interface and user experience design principles for digital applications.
• Vendor Negotiation: Experience in liaising with and managing external vendors for specialized creative production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "Technical Proficiency" in industry-standard design software and "Vendor Management" experience points to a need for practical operational skills beyond pure design. The emphasis on "Client Presentation" and "Cross-Functional Collaboration" highlights the role's integration into the agency's operational workflow and client-facing processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstration of Core Design Skills: Showcase a range of projects that highlight proficiency in typography, layout, color theory, and visual hierarchy across different mediums (print, digital, social).
• Conceptual Strength: Include case studies or project descriptions that explain the creative brief, the ideation process, and how the design solution addressed the client's objectives.
• Versatility Across Brands/Projects: Present a diverse portfolio that reflects an ability to adapt to various brand identities, target audiences, and project scopes.
• Technical Execution: Ensure all presented work demonstrates high-quality execution and technical accuracy, with clear examples of how design was applied in a real-world context.
• Digital Design Proficiency: Include examples of digital assets such as social media graphics, web banners, or email templates, showcasing understanding of digital design constraints and best practices.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for the portfolio itself, candidates are expected to be able to articulate their design process, including:
  • Workflow Management: How they approach project briefs, concept development, feedback incorporation, and final asset delivery.
  • Software Utilization: How they leverage design tools for efficiency, version control, and asset organization.
  • Collaboration Integration: How their design process integrates with project management workflows and client feedback loops.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "diverse portfolio demonstrating strong creative concepting, design, and art direction skills across various mediums" implies a need for candidates to showcase not just the final output but also their problem-solving process. For a role supporting agency operations, demonstrating an understanding of workflow and efficient execution within the portfolio is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a mid-level Graphic Designer with 3+ years of experience in Beirut, Lebanon, the estimated annual salary range is expected to be between $18,000 - $30,000 USD.
• This estimate is derived from local salary benchmarks for creative roles, considering the cost of living in Beirut and the reputation of Ogilvy as a leading agency.

Benefits:

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and access to industry resources to enhance design skills and stay updated with creative trends.
• Collaborative Work Environment: A supportive and dynamic agency culture that fosters teamwork, creativity, and mutual learning.
• Exposure to Diverse Clients: The chance to work on a wide array of national and international brands across various industries.
• Career Growth: Potential for advancement within Ogilvy's creative departments and broader network.
• Standard Benefits: Likely includes health insurance, paid time off, and other standard employee benefits as per Lebanese labor law.

Working Hours:

• Typically a standard 5-day work week, with approximately 40 hours per week.
• May require flexibility and occasional overtime during peak project periods or to meet client deadlines, reflecting the demanding nature of agency work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation due to the lack of explicit data. It's based on common salary aggregators and industry reports for similar roles in Lebanon. Benefits are inferred from typical agency offerings and the company's stated commitment to employee support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising & Marketing Communications Company Size: Large (Ogilvy is a global network with numerous employees worldwide, and Ogilvy MENA is a significant regional entity). This implies structured processes, diverse teams, and a robust operational framework. Founded: 1948 by David Ogilvy. The company's long history is built on a foundation of respect for people and clients, aiming to inspire impact.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader Creative department, which may include Art Directors, Copywriters, Designers, and potentially specialists in digital media or production.
• They will report to a Creative Director or Senior Art Director, with close collaboration with Project Managers and Client Service teams.
• Cross-functional collaboration is integral, involving frequent interaction with account management, strategy, media planning, and production departments to ensure cohesive campaign execution.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Creativity: While creativity is paramount, Ogilvy emphasizes using data and insights to inform creative strategy and ensure campaigns are effective and measurable.
• Integrated Campaign Development: Projects often involve a multi-disciplinary approach, requiring seamless integration of design with copy, media, and digital strategies.
• Agile Project Management: The agency likely employs project management methodologies that prioritize efficiency, clear communication, and adaptability to client needs and market changes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Ogilvy's global presence and its founding principles of respecting people and clients provides context for the agency's culture and operational priorities. The "methodology" section infers standard agency practices for a large, established firm.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-to-mid-level position within the creative operations of an advertising agency. It's a foundational role for developing a career in design and art direction within the marketing industry.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will typically report to a Creative Director or Senior Art Director, who oversees the creative output of the team and ensures alignment with client objectives and agency standards.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the agency's ability to deliver high-quality creative assets on time and within budget. Efficient design execution and clear communication contribute to project profitability, client satisfaction, and the agency's reputation for creative excellence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in areas like digital design, UI/UX, motion graphics, or art direction.
• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, or Creative Director roles with proven performance and experience.
• Learning and Development: Access to internal training programs, industry conferences, and mentorship from senior creative staff.
• Portfolio Expansion: Building a diverse and impactful portfolio through work on varied client projects, enhancing marketability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a Graphic Designer in an agency setting is typically through deepening creative expertise and taking on more strategic responsibilities, directly impacting the operational efficiency and creative output of projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a traditional office setting within a creative agency environment. Office Location(s): Beirut, Lebanon.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace is likely designed to encourage interaction, brainstorming, and team collaboration, with open-plan areas and meeting rooms.
• Creative Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software, high-performance workstations, and potentially digital display tools for presentations.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with a diverse team of creatives, account managers, and project managers, fostering a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours, typically Monday to Friday, with potential for flexible arrangements or occasional overtime to meet project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and the dynamic, often fast-paced, nature of agency work environments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative aptitude.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing key projects, their design process, and how they approach creative challenges.
• Skills Assessment/Test: A practical design exercise or case study may be administered to evaluate design skills, conceptual thinking, and problem-solving abilities under timed conditions.
• Team and Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with Creative Directors, Art Directors, and potentially Project Managers or Account Leads to assess cultural fit, collaboration skills, and communication effectiveness.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within the agency's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest, most relevant work that demonstrates a range of skills and problem-solving abilities. Quality over quantity.
• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the brief, your role, the challenges, your creative process, and the final outcome/impact.
• Highlight Versatility: Ensure your portfolio reflects your ability to adapt to different brand styles and project types.
• Showcase Technical Skill: Ensure clean execution, attention to detail, and proficiency in the tools used.
• Be Prepared to Discuss: Anticipate questions about your design choices, process, and how you handle feedback and collaboration.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand any design test or case study brief provided.
• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively to ensure you can complete the required elements of the task.
• Focus on Concept: While execution is important, demonstrate strong conceptual thinking that addresses the brief's objectives.
• Presentation Clarity: If required, prepare a clear and concise presentation of your work, explaining your rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for creative roles heavily emphasizes the portfolio. Candidates should be prepared to deconstruct their work and articulate their strategic and creative thought processes, directly linking their design output to project objectives and agency operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are essential.
• Presentation Software: PowerPoint, Keynote, or Google Slides for client presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for analytics, understanding how design impacts metrics (e.g., click-through rates for banners, engagement on social media) is beneficial. Familiarity with analytics platforms like Google Analytics or social media insights tools can be a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core responsibilities of a Graphic Designer, but understanding how creative assets are managed within agency project management or asset management systems (e.g., DAM - Digital Asset Management) is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Familiarity with presentation tools is crucial for the client-facing aspect of the role, which is an operational necessity for client management and project approval.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to push creative boundaries and find novel solutions to client challenges.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong belief in working together, sharing ideas, and supporting colleagues to achieve collective goals.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding client needs and delivering exceptional work that drives client success.
• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to high standards in all creative output and project execution.
• Adaptability: Willingness to embrace new trends, technologies, and feedback to continuously improve.

Collaboration Style:

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue and feedback exchange within the creative team and with other departments.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with account management, strategy, and production to ensure integrated campaign delivery.
• Feedback Loop: Actively seeking and providing constructive feedback to enhance creative output and project processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Ogilvy's stated commitment to respecting people and clients underpins its culture. For a designer, this translates to valuing collaborative input and focusing on client-centric creative solutions, which are operational tenets of agency success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Client Briefs: The constant need to produce innovative creative work while strictly adhering to client brand guidelines, budgets, and strategic objectives.
• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling diverse projects with varying deadlines, priorities, and client expectations requires strong organizational and time management skills.
• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Staying current with rapid changes in design software, digital platforms, and consumer behavior demands continuous learning.
• Receiving and Implementing Feedback: Effectively interpreting and integrating feedback from clients and internal stakeholders, which can sometimes be subjective or contradictory.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement Workshops: Access to training on new design software, techniques, and industry best practices.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced Art Directors and Creative Directors within Ogilvy.
• Industry Conferences & Events: Participation in design and advertising events to gain insights and network.
• Exposure to Diverse Disciplines: Working on projects that involve different marketing channels and creative outputs to broaden skill sets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic and demanding nature of agency work, which requires strong operational skills in time management and adaptability, alongside creative talent. Growth opportunities are tied to both deepening creative expertise and developing the operational acumen needed for more senior roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you had to balance creative vision with strict client brand guidelines. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on adherence to operational constraints while maintaining creative integrity).
• "Describe your design process from receiving a brief to final delivery. How do you ensure efficiency and quality at each stage?" (Highlight workflow, collaboration, and quality assurance steps).
• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs from clients or senior team members?" (Demonstrate adaptability, receptiveness to feedback, and problem-solving for revisions).
• "How do you stay updated with the latest design trends and technologies, and how do you incorporate them into your work?" (Showcase proactivity, continuous learning, and strategic application of new knowledge).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ogilvy's work and its philosophy?" (Research recent campaigns and understand the "Ogilvy difference").
• "How do you see yourself contributing to a collaborative creative team environment?" (Emphasize teamwork, communication, and a positive attitude).
• "What are your career aspirations within the advertising industry?" (Align your goals with potential growth paths at Ogilvy).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your strongest work first.
• Narrative: For each project, clearly state the brief, your specific role and contributions, the challenges faced, your creative process, and the final outcome. Use visuals effectively to support your narrative.
• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques you used.
• Client Context: If possible, briefly mention the client and the objective of the campaign.
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time and deliver your presentation efficiently and engagingly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing not just creative talent but also the candidate's understanding of agency operations, client management, and collaborative processes. Demonstrating how their design work contributes to project success and client satisfaction is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your comprehensive resume and a link to your online portfolio through the Ogilvy MENA careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio presentation to highlight projects that demonstrate versatility across different brands and mediums, and clearly articulate your design process for each.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your years of experience, proficiency in design software (Adobe Creative Suite), and any relevant agency experience, using keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on telling the story behind each project, explaining your creative rationale, and demonstrating how you handle feedback and collaboration. Be ready to discuss your understanding of industry trends.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ogilvy's recent work, its brand philosophy, and its impact in the MENA region to articulate your genuine interest and cultural fit during interviews.

⚠️ 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.