Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Sword Technologies S.A. Location: Brussels, Belgium Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services Date Posted: August 20, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on creating visually engaging digital content to support Sword Technologies' communication efforts, particularly for European Institutions.
• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in translating complex data and messages into accessible and impactful visual narratives through infographics and other digital assets.
• A key aspect involves collaborating closely with internal teams to understand project needs and provide expert advice on visual communication strategies.
• The position requires a strong understanding of design principles, digital media, and the ability to maintain brand consistency across all visual outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data is for a Graphic Designer, the context of working with European Institutions and communicating complex data suggests a strong alignment with Marketing Operations and GTM support, where visual communication is critical for outreach and engagement. The role's emphasis on data visualization and digital asset creation places it within the broader scope of operations that support Go-To-Market strategies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a wide array of digital assets for web and social media platforms, including banners, illustrations, icons, infographics, motion graphics, and interactive elements.
• Conceptualize, gather data for, and create web-adapted infographics, focusing on simplifying complex information into clear, engaging visualizations.
• Perform photo editing and image enhancement to ensure visual assets meet design specifications and brand guidelines.
• Capture event photography and high-level meeting visuals to support internal and external communications.
• Provide consultative guidance to internal teams on visual communication strategies and best practices.
• Develop and maintain visual identity materials, including templates for specific projects and campaigns, ensuring brand consistency.
• Ensure all visual outputs adhere to graphics standards and accessibility guidelines, catering to diverse audiences.
• Contribute expert input to enhance the overall clarity, informativeness, and engagement of visual communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and strategic advisory, typical for a mid-level operations-support role. The focus on data translation into infographics and advising teams on visual strategies indicates a need for strong analytical thinking alongside design skills, crucial for effective GTM communication.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Digital Media, or a closely related field.
• Equivalent practical experience will also be considered, demonstrating a strong foundation in design principles and application.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of demonstrable experience in graphic design, with a robust portfolio showcasing a range of digital design projects.
• Proven track record in creating effective visual communication materials for diverse audiences and platforms.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for professional design and asset creation.
• Hands-on experience with online infographic tools such as Canva, facilitating rapid and accessible data visualization.
• Solid understanding of user-centered design principles and methodologies to create engaging and intuitive visual experiences.
• Competency in photography, including event capture and proficiency in photo-editing software for image enhancement and post-production.
• Excellent English language skills (B2 level or higher) for effective communication, collaboration, and comprehension.
• Strong creative and innovative mindset, coupled with meticulous attention to detail in all visual output.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with motion graphics software (e.g., After Effects) for dynamic visual content creation.
• Experience with additional EU languages, enhancing communication capabilities within a multinational context.
• Knowledge of web design principles and UI/UX best practices to inform digital asset creation.
• Experience in developing visual identity systems and brand guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Adobe Creative Suite and infographic tools, alongside user-centered design principles, points to a role focused on operationalizing marketing and communication strategies through impactful visuals. The preference for additional EU languages is a strong indicator of the client-facing nature of the role within a European context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects that demonstrate proficiency in digital asset creation for web and social media.
• Include at least 2-3 examples of complex data visualization or infographic design, highlighting the process of data gathering, simplification, and visual representation.
• Present examples of photo editing and enhancement, demonstrating technical skill and aesthetic judgment.
• Include any examples of brand identity development or template creation, showing an understanding of visual consistency.
• Highlight projects where visual communication advised or supported specific business objectives or campaigns.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process, from initial concept and brief interpretation to final asset delivery and iteration.
• Demonstrate an understanding of workflow management for creative projects, including time management and stakeholder feedback integration.
• Explain how you ensure accessibility and compliance with brand guidelines throughout your design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, as it serves as the primary evidence of design capability and process adherence. Operations professionals applying should focus on demonstrating how their visual output directly supports communication goals and operational efficiency by simplifying complex information.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Mid-Level Graphic Designer in Brussels, Belgium, with 2-5 years of experience, the estimated salary range is €38,000 - €55,000 per annum. This range considers the cost of living in Brussels and the specific demands of working with European Institutions.

Benefits:

• Full-time position, offering either freelance or payroll contract options for flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development through dedicated training programs.
• Access to high-visibility projects with European Institutions, providing significant career exposure.
• A collaborative and people-oriented work environment that values knowledge sharing.
• Direct impact on the communication and visibility of key projects through creative contributions.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, aligning with typical business operations in Belgium.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on aggregated data for similar roles in Brussels, factoring in the specialized context of working with EU Institutions which often commands competitive compensation. The benefits emphasize professional development, a key draw for operations professionals seeking to enhance their skill sets.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: IT Services, Digital Transformation, Consulting. Sword Group operates within the technology consulting sector, serving a diverse client base including major European Institutions. This industry context means a focus on innovation, client solutions, and adherence to high professional standards. Company Size: Over 2,800 professionals globally. This indicates a large, established organization with robust internal processes and opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration. Founded: Specific founding date not provided, but implied to be a well-established international leader. This suggests a mature organizational structure and established operational procedures.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a marketing, communications, or a dedicated creative services team.
• Reporting structure will likely be to a Marketing Manager or Head of Communications, with collaboration across various project teams and departments.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with project managers, technical teams, and communication specialists to translate project requirements into visual assets.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven insights to inform visual design, particularly for infographics and complex data representation.
• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial for managing multiple design projects and meeting deadlines for EU Institution projects.
• Automation and efficiency practices may be leveraged where possible, though creativity remains central.

Company Website: https://www.sword-group.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Sword Technologies' focus on IT services and digital transformation, coupled with its work for European Institutions, suggests a culture that values precision, innovation, and strong communication. The size of the company implies structured operations and clear career pathways.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Graphic Designer. This role is positioned to contribute significantly to communication strategies, requiring independent execution of design tasks and the ability to advise stakeholders. It bridges the gap between junior execution and senior strategic creative leadership. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Marketing or Communications Lead within a regional or project-specific team. This provides direct mentorship and exposure to strategic communication planning. Operations Impact: The role's impact is directly tied to the clarity, engagement, and effectiveness of Sword Technologies' communications. By creating compelling visuals, the designer enhances project visibility, stakeholder understanding, and brand perception, indirectly supporting business development and client relations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in data visualization, digital asset management, and potentially motion graphics or UI/UX design, enhancing capabilities within the marketing operations spectrum.
• Industry Specialization: Gain deep experience working with European Institutions, understanding their communication needs and compliance requirements, which is a specialized and valuable niche.
• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success, opportunities may arise to lead design aspects of larger projects, mentor junior designers, or contribute to the development of internal design standards and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role would involve not just creative skill enhancement but also a deeper understanding of operational communication needs within large, structured organizations like EU Institutions. This specialization can lead to specialized roles in marketing operations or communications strategy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as on-site in Brussels, suggesting a professional office environment typical of an international IT consulting firm. Office Location(s): Brussels, Belgium. This location places Sword Technologies at the heart of European Union activities, offering unique professional exposure.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace designed to foster interaction and knowledge sharing among team members.
• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including Adobe Creative Suite and potentially other project management or collaboration software.
• Opportunities for regular interaction with diverse internal teams, project managers, and communication specialists, facilitating a dynamic work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with potential flexibility depending on project deadlines and event coverage. Operations professionals often benefit from structured schedules that allow for focused work sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature and location in Brussels suggest a professional, perhaps fast-paced, environment where collaboration and direct communication are valued, fitting for operations roles that require close team alignment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess technical skills, creative output, and relevant experience.
• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design process, software proficiency (Adobe Suite, infographics tools), and understanding of visual communication principles. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific portfolio pieces.
• Case Study/Design Challenge: A practical task to assess design thinking, problem-solving, and ability to translate briefs into visual concepts, potentially involving data visualization or adapting existing branding.
• Cultural Fit/Team Interview: Discussion with team members or hiring manager to evaluate collaboration skills, communication style, and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase a range of skills, particularly digital asset creation and data visualization.
• Tell a Story: For each project, be prepared to discuss the brief, your creative process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your design.
• Highlight Data Visualization: Clearly articulate your approach to gathering, simplifying, and visualizing data for infographics.
• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the tools and techniques used in your featured projects.
• Demonstrate Brand Understanding: Include examples that show adherence to brand guidelines or your ability to develop new visual identities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review common design challenges related to data visualization and adapting complex information for diverse audiences.
• Practice articulating your design decisions and rationale clearly and concisely.
• Prepare to present your design process and solutions efficiently within a limited timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical element for this role. Applicants should focus on showcasing projects that demonstrate not just creative flair but also an understanding of operational communication needs and the ability to deliver impactful, data-driven visuals.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are fundamental. Proficiency is key for professional graphic design output.
• Infographic Tools: Canva or similar online platforms for efficient data visualization and asset creation.
• Photography Software: Adobe Lightroom or similar for photo editing and enhancement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct analytics role, understanding how visuals perform (e.g., engagement metrics on social media) can inform design choices. Familiarity with web analytics or social media analytics tools is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Awareness of CRM systems (like Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms (like HubSpot, Marketo) can be beneficial for understanding how visual assets integrate into broader marketing and sales operations workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable, highlighting the technical foundation required. Understanding how visual assets are deployed through digital channels and marketing operations indirectly supports the role's impact.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate, and visually polished assets.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams to understand project needs and deliver optimal visual solutions.
• Innovation: Employing creativity and modern design techniques to make communication impactful.
• Client Focus: Understanding the audience (including European Institutions) and tailoring visuals for maximum clarity and engagement.
• Efficiency: Managing design workflows effectively to meet project timelines.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and active listening to grasp project requirements from various stakeholders.
• Proactive engagement in team meetings and feedback sessions to refine visual concepts.
• A supportive approach to sharing design knowledge and assisting colleagues with visual communication needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on collaboration and client focus, particularly within the context of serving European Institutions, suggests a culture that values professionalism, clear communication, and a results-oriented approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Data: Effectively simplifying and visualizing intricate information for diverse audiences requires strong analytical and design skills.
• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a unified visual identity across numerous projects and platforms for a large organization.
• Meeting Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the visual requirements and feedback from various internal teams and potentially external clients.
• Adapting to Evolving Digital Trends: Staying current with new design tools, platforms, and visual communication best practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or explore new design tools like After Effects for motion graphics.
• Data Visualization Workshops: Courses focused on advanced techniques for presenting data visually and effectively.
• Project Management Basics: Understanding project workflows and client management can enhance operational efficiency.
• Exposure to EU Communication Standards: Gaining insights into the specific communication requirements and styles preferred by European Institutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges in this role are centered around communication effectiveness and operational efficiency in design execution. Growth opportunities lie in specializing in high-demand areas like data visualization and gaining expertise in niche markets like EU Institution communications.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to simplify a complex dataset into an infographic. What was your process, and what were the results?" (Focus on data gathering, simplification strategy, tool usage, and visual impact).
• "How do you ensure brand consistency across various digital assets and platforms?" (Discuss brand guidelines, template usage, and quality control measures).
• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that you are most proud of. What was the objective, your role, and the outcome?" (Prepare a concise narrative highlighting your process, skills, and contribution).
• "How do you handle conflicting feedback from different stakeholders on a design project?" (Emphasize communication, negotiation, and finding common ground to achieve project goals).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Sword Technologies and our work with European Institutions?" (Research the company's mission, recent projects, and values).
• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and technologies?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and professional development).
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative culture." (Align your answer with the company's emphasis on teamwork and knowledge sharing).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Diverse Examples: Choose projects that showcase a range of skills, from social media graphics to detailed infographics or brand elements.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics or describe the qualitative impact of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, clearer communication).
• Explain Your Process: Clearly articulate the 'why' behind your design choices, not just the 'what.'
• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to ensure it's clear, professional, and within any time limits.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also an understanding of operational communication needs, problem-solving skills, and the ability to integrate into a professional, collaborative team environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Sword Technologies careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that best demonstrate your ability to create compelling digital assets, infographics, and visual communication strategies, particularly those involving data simplification.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, infographic design, photography, and mentions your English language proficiency. Quantify achievements where possible, linking your design work to communication objectives.
• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, key portfolio projects, and how you handle feedback. Be ready to articulate your understanding of Sword Technologies' mission and its work with European Institutions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Sword Group's services, recent projects, and corporate values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.