Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP Location: Houston, TX Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Marketing Operations / Business Development Support Date Posted: August 18, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-7 years) Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design and production of high-impact, visually compelling PowerPoint presentations crucial for client pitches, proposals, and marketing collateral.
• Drive brand consistency and visual storytelling across all firm materials, ensuring a cohesive and professional brand image.
• Support a broad spectrum of print and digital design needs, including brochures, newsletters, event materials, and social media graphics.
• Collaborate closely with legal professionals and business development teams to translate complex messaging into impactful visual communication.
• Leverage advanced proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint and Adobe Creative Suite to create sophisticated and engaging visual content.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the detailed responsibilities and emphasis on PowerPoint presentations for client pitches and proposals strongly indicate a specialized role within Marketing Operations or Business Development Support, focusing on Go-To-Market (GTM) enablement through visual communication. The role requires a blend of creative design skills and operational understanding of professional services marketing.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce high-impact PowerPoint presentations for Business Development and marketing initiatives, ensuring visual appeal and clarity.
• Develop and manage custom presentation templates, slide masters, charts, infographics, and icon libraries to maintain brand consistency and efficiency.
• Collaborate with attorneys, Business Development professionals, and internal stakeholders to interpret messaging and translate it into visually effective presentations.
• Ensure adherence to the Firm’s brand guidelines and visual identity across all presentation and marketing materials.
• Support the design of a variety of print and digital marketing collateral, including brochures, newsletters, one-pagers, invitations, signage, and social media graphics.
• Format and prepare documents using Microsoft Word and Excel, ensuring professional presentation and data integrity.
• Perform image retouching and create graphic assets using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to enhance visual content.
• Assist with light HTML tasks and the creation of branded email campaigns using email marketing platforms (e.g., Vuture or similar), supporting digital outreach efforts.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, maintaining accuracy, quality, and professionalism.
• Perform additional duties as required to support the Business Development and Marketing teams' operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong project management and workflow efficiency, typical of operations roles. The mention of "translating messaging into visually effective presentations" and "ensuring consistency with the Firm’s brand" points to a strategic function within the marketing operations framework, aimed at optimizing client engagement and brand perception.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related field.

Experience:

• 3-7 years of dedicated experience in presentation design and general graphic design, with a focus on professional services or corporate environments.
• Proven experience in designing high-impact presentations for client pitches, proposals, and marketing collateral.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, including expertise in creating custom templates, animations, and implementing best practices for visual layout.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook for document formatting and data integration.
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for image editing, asset creation, and layout design.
• Experience with basic HTML and email marketing platforms (e.g., Vuture or similar) for digital campaign support.
• Excellent attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and quality in all design outputs.
• Superior organization and time management skills, enabling effective handling of multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively translate concepts and ideas into compelling visual designs.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within a law firm or other professional services environment.
• Familiarity with After Effects for motion graphics and animation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level of 3-7 years suggests a role that requires established design skills and an understanding of corporate branding and communication strategies, particularly within a professional services context. The emphasis on PowerPoint and Adobe Suite proficiency is standard for specialized graphic design roles supporting GTM functions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 high-quality presentation design case studies, demonstrating expertise in PowerPoint and visual storytelling for business objectives.
• Include examples of custom template design, slide master utilization, and the creation of infographics or data visualizations.
• Present a range of print and digital collateral designs (brochures, newsletters, social media graphics) that highlight versatility and brand adherence.
• Demonstrate proficiency in using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) through polished and professional final outputs.
• Provide evidence of strong design process, including initial concept development, client collaboration, revisions, and final delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from understanding client briefs and translating requirements into visual concepts to final file preparation and delivery.
• Ability to describe how they ensure brand consistency and visual identity across various collateral types and platforms.
• Demonstrate an understanding of workflow management, project prioritization, and time management techniques to meet deadlines effectively.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with version control and file management for design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is critical. It should not only display aesthetic skills but also evidence of process, efficiency, understanding of client needs, and ability to work within brand guidelines. This aligns with operations expectations for structured work and demonstrable results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For Houston, TX, a Graphic Designer with 3-7 years of experience, particularly one with advanced PowerPoint and Adobe Creative Suite skills in a professional services environment, can expect a salary range of approximately $70,000 to $95,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for skilled graphic designers in major metropolitan areas and the specialized nature of presentation design for law firms.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including training and workshops related to design software and industry trends.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or annual salary reviews.
• Access to firm-wide employee assistance programs.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week.
• While remote work is an option, flexibility may be required to meet critical project deadlines, which could involve occasional extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on Glassdoor, Salary.com, and LinkedIn Salary data for Graphic Designers in Houston, TX, adjusted for the specific requirements of advanced PowerPoint skills and experience in the professional services sector. The role is noted as "non-exempt," meaning overtime pay eligibility is a key benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Legal Services / Law Firm Company Size: Large (Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is a global law firm with over 1,000 employees, indicating a significant organizational structure and established professional environment). Founded: 1884 (This extensive history suggests a stable, established firm with a strong reputation and deep-rooted professional culture).

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Business Development team, which typically comprises professionals focused on client acquisition, relationship management, and marketing initiatives.
• This team likely collaborates closely with attorneys, marketing specialists, and other support departments (e.g., IT, HR, Communications).
• The reporting structure would likely be to a Marketing Manager, Director of Business Development, or a similar leadership role within the Business Development function.

Methodology:

• The firm likely employs a structured approach to client engagement and marketing, with a focus on professionalism, accuracy, and brand consistency.
• Data analysis might be used to inform marketing strategies and measure the effectiveness of collateral.
• Workflow planning and optimization are essential for managing the diverse needs of a global law firm.
• Automation and efficiency practices may be leveraged in marketing platforms and internal processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the context of a large, global law firm is crucial. Operations within such an environment are typically highly structured, process-driven, and focused on precision and client service. The design role supports these objectives by ensuring professional and consistent external communications.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: The Graphic Designer role is positioned as a specialized individual contributor within the Business Development and Marketing operations. It requires a blend of creative talent and operational execution to support client-facing activities.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Business Development or Marketing department, likely to a manager or director responsible for marketing collateral and client engagement materials. This provides exposure to strategic marketing initiatives and client relationship management.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the firm's external brand perception and client engagement effectiveness. High-quality, consistent visual materials are critical for successful client pitches and proposals, directly contributing to business development outcomes and client acquisition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in presentation design, visual branding, or digital marketing collateral within the legal sector.
• Skill Development: Gain proficiency in advanced design techniques, new software, and emerging digital marketing tools.
• Project Leadership: Take ownership of larger design projects or lead specific visual branding initiatives.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Collaborate on broader marketing campaigns and business development strategies, potentially leading to roles in marketing coordination or management.
• Industry Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of the legal industry's marketing nuances and client expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this type of operations-adjacent role often involves deepening specialization or moving into broader marketing management roles, leveraging the foundational understanding of communication strategy and execution gained.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job is listed as "TELECOMMUTE" with a location in Houston, TX, and the remote status is "Remote OK." This suggests a hybrid or fully remote work environment, offering flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary listed location is Houston, TX. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is a global firm with offices in major cities worldwide, but this specific role appears to be remote-friendly or based in the Houston office.

Workspace Context:

• The remote work arrangement allows for flexibility in managing one's workspace and schedule.
• Collaboration with the Business Development team will likely occur through virtual meetings, project management tools, and communication platforms.
• Access to firm-provided software licenses and potentially design hardware (depending on company policy) would be expected.
• Opportunities for in-person collaboration or team meetings may exist if the candidate is located near a firm office or if specific events require it.

Work Schedule:

• The standard expectation is a 40-hour work week.
• While remote, adherence to core business hours for team collaboration and client availability is likely necessary.
• Flexibility in daily scheduling may be possible, provided project deadlines and team needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" status is a significant factor for many candidates. It implies a need for strong self-management, communication, and reliable remote work infrastructure.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely review applications and portfolios for basic qualifications and fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely within Business Development/Marketing) to assess design skills, experience, and understanding of the firm's needs. This may involve a portfolio review.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: A practical design test or a more in-depth portfolio review session, potentially with other designers or marketing team members, to evaluate proficiency in PowerPoint and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders (e.g., attorneys, Business Development professionals) to gauge collaboration style, communication skills, and ability to translate requirements into visuals.
• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior leader to confirm fit and discuss overall role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose your strongest, most relevant work, focusing on presentation design and collateral for professional services if possible.
• Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your design process for each project, from brief to execution. Explain your creative decisions and how you addressed client objectives.
• Showcase PowerPoint Mastery: Dedicate specific examples to demonstrate advanced PowerPoint skills, including custom templates, animations, and data visualization.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback on how your designs contributed to successful pitches, proposals, or campaigns.
• Brand Consistency: Ensure all portfolio pieces reflect strong attention to brand guidelines and visual identity.
• Professional Presentation: Your portfolio itself should be well-designed, easy to navigate, and error-free.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you handle tight deadlines and manage multiple projects.
• Prepare to articulate your approach to translating complex or abstract information into clear, compelling visuals.
• Practice explaining your design choices and defending your creative decisions.
• Familiarize yourself with the Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP brand and recent marketing materials to understand their visual style.
• Anticipate questions about your experience with HTML and email marketing platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations-focused roles, interviewers often look for problem-solving skills, process adherence, and the ability to manage projects efficiently. A well-structured portfolio presentation that highlights these aspects will be highly advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Advanced proficiency required for creating sophisticated presentations, custom templates, and impactful visuals.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for graphic design, including Photoshop (image editing, manipulation), Illustrator (vector graphics, logos, icons), and InDesign (layout for brochures, newsletters).
• Microsoft Word & Excel: Required for document formatting, data integration, and basic reporting.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Email Marketing Platforms: Experience with platforms like Vuture or similar is beneficial for creating branded email campaigns.
• Analytics Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) or marketing automation platform reporting could be a plus for understanding campaign performance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly a CRM role, understanding how marketing collateral integrates with CRM data (e.g., lead tracking) can be valuable.
• Automation Tools: Experience with marketing automation or design automation tools could enhance efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology stack emphasizes Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite, which are standard for graphic design roles but particularly critical for presentation design. The mention of email marketing platforms highlights the integration of design into broader marketing automation efforts.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Professionalism & Excellence: Upholding high standards in all design work and client interactions, reflecting the firm's commitment to excellence.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with attorneys, marketing professionals, and other departments to achieve shared goals.
• Client Focus: Understanding client needs and creating visuals that effectively communicate the firm's value proposition and expertise.
• Efficiency & Accuracy: Delivering high-quality work on time, with meticulous attention to detail and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Continuous Improvement: Staying updated on design trends, software advancements, and best practices to enhance the effectiveness of visual communications.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with legal teams and business development professionals to understand project requirements and provide design solutions.
• Feedback Exchange: Open to receiving and incorporating feedback from stakeholders to refine designs and ensure alignment with objectives.
• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a shared understanding of design best practices and brand standards within the marketing team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture in a top-tier law firm emphasizes precision, client service, and a collaborative yet professional atmosphere. Operations roles within this environment are expected to be detail-oriented, efficient, and supportive of the firm's business objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Legal Jargon: Effectively converting complex legal concepts and technical information into easily digestible and visually appealing content.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the design preferences and feedback from various attorneys and business development professionals, each with potentially different needs.
• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring that all design outputs strictly adhere to the firm's established brand guidelines across a wide range of collateral.
• Meeting Tight Deadlines: Successfully managing multiple urgent design requests common in a fast-paced professional services environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen skills in Adobe Creative Suite, potentially exploring motion graphics (After Effects) or advanced PowerPoint features.
• Professional Services Marketing Insights: Gaining a deeper understanding of marketing strategies and client engagement tactics specific to the legal industry.
• Brand Management: Developing expertise in corporate branding and visual identity management within a prestigious professional services context.
• Digital Marketing Skills: Enhancing knowledge of email marketing platforms and digital content creation best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for specialized design roles supporting professional services, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills to navigate client needs and project demands. Growth opportunities focus on specialization and expanding technical and strategic marketing knowledge.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a client pitch from a raw brief to a final, polished presentation." Focus on your workflow, stakeholder communication, and how you ensure clarity and impact.
• "How do you ensure brand consistency across various design projects, especially when working with different stakeholders?" Emphasize your understanding of brand guidelines and your approach to managing feedback.
• "Walk us through a challenging design project you completed. What were the objectives, your role, the challenges, and the outcome?" Be prepared to discuss your problem-solving skills and the impact of your work.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for a law firm like Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP?" Research the firm's practice areas, recent work, and values.
• "How do you handle constructive criticism or differing design opinions from colleagues or clients?" Demonstrate your collaborative and adaptable nature.
• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and software?" Show your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project in your portfolio as a story, explaining the problem, your solution, and the results.
• Highlight PowerPoint Proficiency: Specifically showcase your most complex and effective PowerPoint work, detailing the techniques used.
• Focus on Impact: Where possible, link your designs to business outcomes, such as successful pitches or increased engagement.
• Be Concise: Present your portfolio clearly and efficiently, respecting the interviewer's time. Be ready to answer specific questions about your process and design choices.
• Technical Details: Be prepared to discuss the software and tools used for each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for roles supporting professional services should emphasize not just creative talent but also process, communication, and the ability to deliver high-quality, on-brand results consistently. Highlighting experience with the specific tools mentioned is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Workday careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant presentation design work, especially examples that demonstrate advanced PowerPoint skills and experience in professional services. Include case studies that highlight your design process and problem-solving abilities.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3-7 years of experience, highlighting proficiency in PowerPoint, Adobe Creative Suite, and any relevant experience in the legal or professional services sectors. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, explaining your creative decisions, and discussing how you manage client relationships and feedback. Prepare specific examples that showcase your attention to detail, time management, and collaborative skills.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, focusing on their practice areas, culture, and recent marketing initiatives. Understand their brand identity to better align your application and interview responses.

⚠️ 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.