Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Purdys Chocolatier

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Job Type: Full-time Permanent

Category: Creative/Design Operations

Date Posted: August 20, 2025

Experience Level: 3-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the end-to-end design process for high-volume packaging and print materials, requiring a strong understanding of brand consistency and print production workflows.

• The Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with Marketing and Merchandise teams to translate strategic direction into visually compelling creative assets, ensuring alignment with Purdys' established brand standards.

• Key responsibilities include developing original illustrations and cohesive design collections for seasonal packaging, as well as creating various retail signage, catalogues, and marketing collateral.

• Success in this position hinges on the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high level of design quality and responding effectively to shifting priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is design, the "operations" aspect of this role pertains to the systematic and efficient management of the design lifecycle, from concept to final production-ready files, ensuring brand integrity and timely delivery of marketing and product assets. This involves understanding workflow, asset management, and cross-functional departmental coordination, which are core to operations disciplines.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design seasonal packaging illustrations and sub-brand extensions, ensuring cohesive visual themes across product categories.

• Develop and execute original design concepts for a wide array of print collateral, including retail signage, catalogues, brochures, and marketing materials, adhering to brand guidelines.

• Manage the entire design lifecycle for assigned projects, from initial brainstorming and creative direction with Marketing and Merchandise teams to final file preparation for print production.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Merchandise, Production) to ensure all design deliverables are aligned with strategic objectives, brand voice, and quality standards.

• Research and stay updated on current design trends, industry best practices, and competitor activities to inform creative strategies and maintain a fresh, contemporary brand aesthetic.

• Prepare and manage final design files for print, ensuring correct specifications, color profiles, and pre-press requirements are met, collaborating with print vendors as needed.

• Maintain and organize a library of design assets, templates, and brand guidelines to ensure consistency and efficient retrieval for future projects.

• Adapt to evolving project requirements and feedback, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving within the creative process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a structured approach to design, including concept development, execution, stakeholder management, and production readiness, all of which are critical operational components in a creative environment. The mention of "managing the design and uploading process" and "update and maintain design files and assets" directly points to operational execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience specifically in designing packaging and print collateral.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience working within a retail, design studio, or agency environment; experience in a creative agency or within the retail sector is highly advantageous.

Required Skills:

• High proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, for professional design and production work.

• Strong illustration skills and the ability to create original, cohesive artwork for packaging and marketing materials.

• Excellent understanding of typography, color theory, layout design principles, and brand guideline adherence.

• Proven ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to effectively work with and present to internal stakeholders and cross-functional teams.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and Outlook for general business communication and project management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with After Effects for motion graphics or animation in marketing collateral.

• Familiarity with print production processes, including pre-press checks, color management, and understanding of various printing techniques and specialty finishes.

• Ability to conduct market research on design trends and apply insights to creative projects.

• Experience with digital asset management (DAM) systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific Adobe Suite proficiency, packaging design experience, and print production knowledge directly aligns with the technical requirements for operational efficiency in a design context. The requirement for managing multiple projects and responding to shifting priorities highlights the need for robust project management and workflow optimization skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3 years of relevant design work, with a strong emphasis on packaging and print collateral.

• Demonstration of diverse creative concepts and execution across various projects, highlighting originality and brand alignment.

• Case studies or examples that illustrate the design process, from initial brief to final output, including problem-solving and creative decision-making.

• Examples of successful collaboration and communication with stakeholders during the design process.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate and demonstrate understanding of a systematic design workflow, from concept generation and client brief interpretation to final file delivery and production readiness.

• Examples of how design files are organized, managed, and maintained for archival and future use.

• Evidence of adherence to brand guidelines and quality control processes throughout the design lifecycle.

• Familiarity with managing design assets and ensuring their consistent application across various marketing channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio and the demonstration of design process understanding are crucial for evaluating a candidate's ability to execute design tasks operationally. This includes managing the workflow, maintaining asset integrity, and ensuring quality control, which are all integral to effective design operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Eligibility for Canada's Top Employers benefits package (specifics not detailed but implies comprehensive coverage).

• Opportunity to work for a company recognized as one of Canada's Best Employers, suggesting a positive and supportive work environment.

• Potential for employee discounts on Purdys Chocolatier products.

Working Hours:

• Full-time permanent position.

• The role is based in Vancouver, BC, with occasional requirements to work from another office location (2777 Kingsway), indicating a hybrid work arrangement.

• Standard working hours are assumed to be 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided, and the company's recognition as a top employer suggests a robust benefits package typically associated with such accolades, which often includes health, dental, and potentially retirement savings plans, crucial for employee retention in operations roles. The hybrid nature implies a need for efficient time management and coordination between office and remote work.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Confectionery / Chocolate Manufacturing & Retail. Purdys Chocolatier is a well-established Canadian company with a rich history of over 115 years, known for its quality products and commitment to creating connection and joy through chocolate.

Company Size: Purdys Chocolatier is recognized as one of Canada's Top Employers, indicating a substantial and well-structured organization with a significant employee base, likely employing hundreds to over a thousand individuals across various departments and retail locations.

Founded: Over 115 years ago. This long history signifies stability, deep-rooted brand values, and a proven track record in the market.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will join the Creative team and report to the Merchandise Manager.

• This role involves significant collaboration with the Marketing and Merchandise departments, suggesting a cross-functional team environment.

Methodology:

• The team operates with a focus on brand consistency and quality across all creative outputs, particularly in packaging and print.

• Creative direction and project execution involve collaboration with multiple stakeholders to ensure alignment with strategic goals and brand standards.

• There is an emphasis on responding to market trends and customer preferences, integrating feedback into design iterations.

Company Website: www.purdys.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Purdys' long history and recognition as a top employer suggest a culture that values employee well-being, quality, and tradition, while also adapting to modern market demands. The collaborative nature between Creative, Marketing, and Merchandise teams is key to operational success in producing cohesive brand experiences.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an intermediate-level Graphic Designer role, requiring 3+ years of specific experience. It sits within the Creative department but has significant operational responsibilities related to project execution, asset management, and production readiness.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the Merchandise Manager, indicating a clear line of management and oversight for creative projects and their alignment with merchandising strategies.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the visual representation of Purdys' brand across all packaging and print materials. High-quality, on-brand designs are crucial for customer perception, sales, and overall brand equity, making this role operationally vital for commercial success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to specialize further in packaging design or expand into other creative areas within the company as experience grows.

• Opportunities to take on more complex projects and lead design initiatives for specific campaigns or product lines.

• Possibility for advancement into Senior Graphic Designer roles or related positions within the broader Marketing or Creative departments.

• Continuous learning and skill development through exposure to various design challenges and industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: While primarily a design role, the structured responsibilities and reporting lines offer a clear career path within a stable organization. Growth would likely involve increased project ownership and strategic input on design operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Vancouver, BC, with an expected hybrid work arrangement. This suggests a professional office environment for collaborative work and creative sessions, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 8330 Chester Street, Vancouver, BC, with occasional requirements to work from the 2777 Kingsway office.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is described as fast-paced, requiring individuals who can thrive under pressure and manage multiple projects efficiently.

• Collaboration across departments (Marketing, Merchandise) is a key aspect, suggesting an open and communicative workspace that facilitates teamwork and idea sharing.

• Access to creative tools and technology (Adobe Creative Suite) is expected to be standard.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time permanent position, typically around 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid nature implies a need for effective time management and coordination to balance in-office collaboration with remote work responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model requires candidates to be self-motivated and organized, managing their time and tasks effectively to meet project deadlines and participate in team activities, both in-person and remotely.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial screening of applications, likely focusing on resume and portfolio review for relevant experience and design skills.

• First interview may involve the hiring manager (Merchandise Manager) and potentially a member of the Creative or Marketing team to assess creative capabilities, experience, and cultural fit.

• A practical design exercise or a more in-depth portfolio review session might be conducted to evaluate problem-solving skills, design process, and technical proficiency.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Ensure your portfolio prominently features packaging and print design work, showcasing a minimum of 3 years of experience.

• Select diverse projects that demonstrate your ability to create original illustrations and maintain brand consistency across different styles and campaigns.

• For each project, provide a brief overview of the brief, your creative process, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the final outcome.

• Clearly articulate your role in collaborative projects and highlight your ability to work with stakeholders.

• Ensure all work presented is high-resolution, well-organized, and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process, how you approach creative briefs, and how you manage feedback from stakeholders.

• Familiarize yourself with Purdys Chocolatier's current branding, packaging, and marketing materials to understand their aesthetic and market positioning.

• Practice articulating your design decisions, explaining the rationale behind color choices, typography, and layout.

• If a design challenge is provided, focus on understanding the brief, managing your time effectively, and presenting a clear, well-reasoned solution that aligns with brand standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio is critical. Candidates should curate their best work specifically relevant to packaging and print, and be prepared to discuss the operational aspects of their design process, including file management and collaboration.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator (essential for all design and production tasks).

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint (for general business communication, documentation, and presentations).

• Outlook: For email communication and calendar management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a data analysis role, understanding how design impacts sales and marketing performance might involve familiarity with:
  • Web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) for understanding website traffic and user engagement with digital marketing materials.

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tool usage is specified, but understanding how design assets integrate into marketing automation platforms or CRM campaigns could be beneficial.

• Familiarity with Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems for organizing and distributing creative assets would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is paramount. While not explicitly stated, an understanding of how design assets are utilized in marketing campaigns and potentially integrated into CRM or digital platforms would showcase an appreciation for the broader operational ecosystem.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Reflecting Purdys' long-standing commitment to high-quality products, this translates to meticulous attention to detail in design and production.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role requires close work with Marketing and Merchandise teams, emphasizing shared goals and mutual support.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and enhancing the Purdys brand through consistent and effective visual communication.

• Creativity & Innovation: Generating fresh, engaging designs that resonate with customers while staying true to the brand's heritage.

• Efficiency & Adaptability: Managing a high volume of work in a fast-paced environment, responding effectively to changing priorities and feedback.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional teamwork is essential, requiring open communication, active listening, and a willingness to share ideas and feedback constructively.

• The team likely fosters an environment where creative input is valued, and collaboration helps refine concepts and ensure cohesive execution.

• Expect regular interaction with the Merchandise Manager and members of the Marketing team for briefs, reviews, and approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values, as a top employer, likely emphasize a positive, supportive, and customer-centric culture. The collaborative style is critical for the operational efficiency of the creative process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Constraints: Developing innovative designs while strictly adhering to established brand guidelines and production limitations.

• Managing High Volume and Tight Deadlines: Effectively prioritizing and executing numerous projects simultaneously in a fast-paced retail environment.

• Adapting to Shifting Priorities: Quickly adjusting creative direction and project focus based on market feedback or business needs.

• Ensuring Print Production Accuracy: Meticulously preparing files for print to avoid errors, which can be costly and time-consuming to correct.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialization in Packaging Design: Deepening expertise in food/beverage packaging, including material considerations and print production techniques.

• Expanding Creative Skillset: Potentially learning new design software or techniques relevant to marketing and digital collateral.

• Cross-Functional Understanding: Gaining insights into merchandising and marketing strategies to better inform design decisions.

• Project Management Skills: Enhancing abilities in managing timelines, resources, and stakeholder expectations within a creative context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of operational roles in creative departments, requiring strong organizational skills and adaptability. The growth opportunities focus on enhancing specialized design skills and broadening understanding of related business functions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Portfolio: Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects from your portfolio. Explain the brief, your creative process, how you incorporated feedback, any challenges you faced, and the final outcome. Emphasize how you ensured brand consistency and met deadlines.

• Brand Alignment: Discuss your understanding of the Purdys brand and how you would translate its essence into packaging and print materials. How do you research design trends and apply them while staying true to a brand's identity?

• Collaboration & Communication: Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with multiple stakeholders on a design project. How did you manage different opinions or feedback to achieve a successful outcome?

• Problem-Solving: How do you handle tight deadlines or unexpected changes in project scope? Can you provide an example of a time you had to overcome a design challenge?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Purdys Chocolatier's history, products, and recent marketing campaigns. Be ready to discuss what appeals to you about the brand.

• Consider how your creative style and work ethic align with a company recognized as a "Top Employer" and one that values connection and joy.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Organize your portfolio logically, prioritizing packaging and print work.

• For each project, have a concise narrative ready that covers the objective, your role, the creative solution, and the impact or outcome.

• Be ready to discuss the technical aspects of your design files, especially for print, and your process for ensuring print readiness.

• Practice presenting your work clearly and confidently, highlighting your skills and experience relevant to the job description.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also the operational discipline required for the role: efficient project management, clear communication, and a systematic approach to design execution and delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.

• Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in packaging design, print production, and proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, using keywords from the job description.

• Curate your design portfolio to showcase your strongest packaging and print projects, ensuring it is easily accessible and clearly demonstrates your skills and process.

• Prepare to articulate your design process, collaborative experiences, and problem-solving approaches during the interview stages.

• Research Purdys Chocolatier thoroughly to understand their brand, products, and market position, and be ready to discuss how your design aesthetic aligns with their values.

⚠️ 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.

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