Graphic Designer, Digital

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer, Digital
Company: IMG
Location: London - Chiswick Park, United Kingdom
Job Type: OTHER
Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations
Date Posted: 2025-08-14
Experience Level: Early Career (1-3 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for supporting the digital team in creating compelling visual assets and campaigns for sports rights holders, focusing on enhancing digital performance and fan engagement.
• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in translating client briefs into visually engaging designs, ensuring brand consistency and high-quality creative output across various digital platforms.
• This position requires a strong foundation in graphic design principles, proficiency in industry-standard design software, and a keen understanding of sports industry trends to create impactful visual communications.
• The role involves close collaboration with senior designers and account managers, emphasizing clear communication, timely delivery, and innovative concept development to meet client objectives and elevate brand profiles.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw input lists the job title as "Graphic Designer, Digital," the responsibilities and company context strongly suggest a Marketing Operations or Creative Operations function within the digital sports consultancy. The focus on supporting digital performance, creating campaigns, and working with account managers aligns with an operational role that bridges creative execution and strategic client delivery in the sports marketing domain. The experience level is inferred as Early Career based on the 1-3 years of experience requirement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the Design Team in the development of creative assets for sports rights holders, including essential "hygiene graphics," digital marketing campaigns, and comprehensive branding initiatives.
• Collaborate with Senior Designers and Account Managers to conceptualize and develop original design ideas, ensuring alignment with client briefs and strategic objectives.
• Produce engaging designs, graphic elements, and visual assets that effectively communicate brand messaging and enhance fan interaction across digital channels.
• Work closely with Account Managers to clarify brief requirements, establish realistic project timelines, and ensure the punctual delivery of high-quality creative outputs.
• Contribute to the development of industry-leading design approaches and visual strategies across various digital platforms in conjunction with the broader Design Team.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with project leads and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project execution and stakeholder satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been expanded to reflect the operational aspects of a graphic design role within a digital consultancy. This includes emphasizing the collaborative process with account managers and senior designers, the importance of timely delivery, and the strategic application of design principles to achieve client objectives in the sports industry.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Design or a related creative field, or equivalent practical experience demonstrating a strong design foundation.
Experience: 1-3 years of professional work experience in graphic design, preferably within a digital agency, consultancy, or in-house creative team, with a demonstrated interest in the sports industry.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, for creating and manipulating digital graphics and layouts.
• Strong understanding of design principles including layout, branding, typography, logo design, and infographic creation.
• Proven ability to work with and adhere to templates and style guides to consistently deliver high-quality, on-brand creatives.
• Demonstrated ability to experiment with design concepts and develop original, authentic creative outputs that meet project requirements.
• Excellent visual and verbal communication skills, enabling clear articulation of design ideas to internal teams and external clients.
• Effective time management abilities, with a track record of successfully managing multiple projects and meeting conflicting deadlines.
• Proactive and confident approach to initiating design ideas, communicating effectively, and seeking clarification when needed.
• High level of attention to detail to ensure the quality and accuracy of all design work.
• Self-motivation and the capacity to take initiative, driving creative thinking and problem-solving processes.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment, as well as work independently on assigned design tasks.
• Open-mindedness and receptiveness to feedback, with a willingness to iterate on designs based on constructive criticism.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in After Effects for motion graphics and animation, enhancing digital campaign impact.
• Advanced skills in PowerPoint for creating visually compelling presentations and proposals.
• Familiarity with digital campaign execution and social media content creation best practices.
• Experience in the sports industry, understanding fan engagement strategies and sports marketing trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills and qualifications have been detailed to align with typical expectations for a digital graphic designer in a fast-paced agency environment. Emphasis is placed on software proficiency, design fundamentals, project management skills (time management, initiative), and collaborative abilities, all crucial for operational success in this role. The "1-3 years" experience is interpreted as an "Early Career" level.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design work showcasing a range of projects, including digital campaigns, branding, social media graphics, and presentations.
• Demonstrations of effective application of branding guidelines and a strong understanding of typography and layout principles.
• Examples of work that highlight problem-solving through design, illustrating the process from brief to final execution.
• Visuals that clearly communicate the impact or objective of each design piece, even if not directly tied to ROI metrics.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of design workflow, from initial concept development and client brief interpretation to final asset delivery and revision cycles.
• Showcase of how templates and style guides are utilized to ensure consistency and efficiency in creative production.
• Evidence of iterative design processes, including how feedback was incorporated to refine creative outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Since this is a creative role, the "Portfolio Requirements" section focuses on the essential elements of a graphic designer's portfolio that demonstrate their technical skills, creative thinking, and ability to follow briefs and brand guidelines, which are operational aspects of their creative output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £25,000 - £35,000 per annum.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work with leading sports brands and influential rights holders.
• Exposure to cutting-edge digital marketing strategies and technologies within the sports industry.
• Professional development opportunities and potential for career advancement within IMG's digital team.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a focus on creativity and innovation.
• Access to industry events and networking opportunities.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range of £25,000-£35,000 has been estimated for a Graphic Designer with 1-3 years of experience in London, UK. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the specified location, considering the company's standing and the nature of the work. Benefits are inferred based on typical offerings for creative roles in agencies and consultancies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports Marketing and Digital Consultancy. IMG's digital division specializes in accelerating the digital performance of major sports entities by developing strategies, creating content, optimizing social media, and leveraging technology to engage fans and drive revenue.
Company Size: IMG is a global leader in sports, events, and representation, with a significant digital team. The specific size of the digital division is not provided, but it operates within a large, established organization, suggesting access to extensive resources and a global network.
Founded: IMG was founded in 1960, indicating a long history and established presence in the sports and entertainment industry. This longevity suggests a stable yet evolving company culture that embraces innovation within its core business.

Team Structure:

• The digital team operates as a consultancy and agency, likely structured into client-focused account teams and specialized functional groups (e.g., design, strategy, content).
• The Graphic Designer would report to a Senior Designer or Design Lead, working closely with Account Managers who interface directly with clients.
• Collaboration is expected across various functions, including digital strategists, content creators, social media specialists, and potentially technology partners, to deliver integrated digital solutions.

Methodology:

• The team employs a client-centric methodology, focusing on understanding client objectives and developing tailored strategies to enhance digital performance, fan engagement, and revenue generation.
• Data analysis and insights are used to inform strategy, creative output, and campaign optimization, ensuring a performance-driven approach.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical for managing multiple client projects efficiently, with a focus on iterative design and feedback integration.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely leveraged where applicable to streamline creative production and campaign management processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture and team structure have been inferred based on the description of IMG's digital team as a consultancy and agency, emphasizing client service, strategic execution, and collaboration within the sports industry. The company's long history suggests a blend of established practices and a forward-looking approach to digital innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an "Early Career" position within the operations and creative functions of a digital sports consultancy. It's an opportunity to gain foundational experience in a specialized field, working on high-profile clients and projects.
Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Senior Designer or a Design Manager. They will work collaboratively with Account Managers and other members of the digital client services team, providing visual support for client campaigns and strategies.
Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the visual appeal and effectiveness of digital campaigns. High-quality design enhances brand perception, improves fan engagement, and supports revenue generation efforts for IMG's clients, thereby contributing to the overall success of the digital consultancy's service offerings.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in advanced design software, motion graphics, and digital campaign execution through hands-on project experience and potentially internal training.
• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in specific areas such as sports branding, social media content creation, or interactive design within the sports sector.
• Leadership Potential: With significant experience and demonstrated success, potential to progress into Senior Designer, Art Director, or Design Lead roles, managing projects and mentoring junior designers.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain exposure to broader digital marketing strategies, client relationship management, and business development within the sports industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the career trajectory for a Graphic Designer in this specific operational context, highlighting the learning opportunities, potential for specialization, and pathways to leadership within IMG's digital division. The impact on business operations, particularly in client satisfaction and revenue generation through design, is emphasized.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in London - Chiswick Park, suggesting a modern office environment typical for creative agencies and consultancies. This often includes collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially dedicated design studios.
Office Location(s): London - Chiswick Park, United Kingdom. This location is a well-established business hub, offering good transport links and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact with a diverse team of digital specialists, account managers, and senior designers.
• Access to industry-standard design software and hardware is expected, supporting efficient and high-quality creative output.
• The environment likely encourages a dynamic and fast-paced workflow, reflecting the demanding nature of sports marketing and digital client services.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are expected to be around 40 hours per week. However, given the project-driven nature of agency work and client deadlines in the sports industry, there may be a need for occasional flexibility or extended hours to ensure timely project completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described to provide context for an on-site role in a professional setting, emphasizing collaboration and the resources available to support the design function within IMG's digital operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess fundamental design skills, relevant experience, and potential cultural fit.
• Creative Task/Test: Likely a practical design challenge or brief to evaluate your ability to ideate, execute, and present creative solutions under timed conditions, mirroring real-world project demands.
• Interview with Hiring Manager/Senior Designer: Discussion about your portfolio, design process, experience with specific software, and understanding of the sports industry. Questions will focus on your problem-solving skills and collaborative approach.
• Team/Stakeholder Interview: Potential meeting with account managers or other team members to assess communication, collaboration, and how well you integrate into the broader digital operations team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that best demonstrate your skills in digital design, branding, and campaign creation.
• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your design process, the tools used, and the final outcome. Highlight any challenges overcome or key decisions made.
• Highlight Digital Focus: Ensure your portfolio includes examples of digital assets, social media graphics, web banners, or any work optimized for digital platforms.
• Demonstrate Brand Adherence: Include examples where you successfully worked within existing brand guidelines or developed new ones.
• Keep it Concise: Aim for clear, high-quality visuals with brief, impactful descriptions. Be prepared to walk through your portfolio and discuss your contributions in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and analyze any design challenge brief. Identify key objectives, target audience, and constraints.
• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively across ideation, design, and preparation for presentation.
• Visual Communication: Focus on creating clear, impactful visuals that communicate your ideas effectively.
• Articulate Your Rationale: Be prepared to explain your design choices, linking them back to the brief and any strategic considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates applying for this role, focusing on portfolio presentation and interview preparation, tailored to a graphic design position within a digital consultancy, emphasizing the operational aspects of creative delivery.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for all graphic design tasks.
  • Photoshop: For raster image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • InDesign: For layout design, particularly for presentations, brochures, and campaign materials.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logo design, icons, and illustrations.
• Microsoft PowerPoint: For creating and designing presentations, which are crucial for client proposals and internal strategy discussions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not primary design tools, familiarity with how design assets perform on digital platforms (e.g., social media engagement metrics, website conversion rates) is beneficial. Understanding basic analytics dashboards may be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tool requirements are specified for this design role, but an understanding of how design assets integrate into broader marketing automation workflows or CRM-driven campaigns would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology stack have been detailed based on the required software listed in the job description, highlighting their specific applications in a graphic design context within digital operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, engaging, and original design concepts that push creative boundaries within the sports industry.
• Client Focus: A commitment to understanding client needs and delivering design solutions that meet strategic objectives and enhance brand perception.
• Collaboration: A willingness to work effectively with colleagues across different disciplines, sharing ideas and providing constructive feedback to achieve team goals.
• Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to design execution, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and high-quality standards in all visual outputs.
• Efficiency & Timeliness: A dedication to managing workload effectively, meeting deadlines, and delivering projects promptly without compromising quality.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engage with account managers, strategists, and content creators to ensure design work is aligned with broader campaign objectives and client strategies.
• Feedback Exchange: Participate in design reviews, provide and receive constructive criticism openly, and iterate on designs based on team and client input.
• Knowledge Sharing: Contribute to a culture of learning by sharing design techniques, industry trends, and insights with fellow team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values have been inferred from the nature of IMG's digital operations and the responsibilities of a graphic designer, emphasizing collaboration, client satisfaction, and creative excellence as core operational principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Client Briefs: The challenge of producing innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs while strictly adhering to client brand guidelines and specific project requirements.
• Managing Multiple Deadlines: Juggling design tasks for various clients simultaneously, each with unique styles, briefs, and turnaround times, requires strong organizational and time management skills.
• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Staying current with the rapidly changing landscape of digital design, social media trends, and sports marketing aesthetics to ensure creative output remains relevant and impactful.
• Translating Strategy into Visuals: Effectively interpreting strategic objectives and data-driven insights into compelling visual narratives that resonate with target audiences in the sports sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly exploring advanced features in After Effects for motion graphics or other relevant design software.
• Industry Workshops & Webinars: Participation in events focused on sports marketing, digital media trends, and graphic design best practices to stay ahead of the curve.
• Mentorship: Learning from senior designers and art directors within IMG, gaining insights into advanced design thinking, client management, and career progression.
• Exposure to Diverse Clients: Working with a wide range of sports rights holders provides varied design challenges and broadens understanding of different brand identities and fan engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines potential challenges and growth avenues specific to a graphic designer role in a sports digital consultancy, focusing on skill development and career progression within the operational framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a client brief from initial concept to final design delivery, especially when working with tight deadlines." (Focus on workflow, collaboration with account managers, and time management.)
• "How do you ensure your designs align with a client's brand identity and marketing objectives, particularly in the fast-paced sports industry?" (Highlight strategic thinking, brand adherence, and understanding of sports marketing.)
• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you had to overcome a design challenge or incorporate significant feedback. What was your approach?" (Prepare a specific case study showcasing problem-solving, adaptability, and communication.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in the sports industry and specifically with IMG's digital team?" (Research IMG's recent campaigns and digital initiatives.)
• "How do you approach collaboration with non-designers, such as account managers or strategists?" (Emphasize clear communication, understanding their perspectives, and finding common ground.)
• "Describe a time you received constructive criticism on your design work. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on receptiveness to feedback and iterative improvement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative – the challenge, your solution, and the impact.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your digital portfolio is easily navigable and visually appealing. Use high-resolution images.
• Concise Explanations: For each piece, provide just enough context about the brief and your role without overwhelming the viewer.
• Highlight Key Skills: Verbally emphasize how specific projects demonstrate your proficiency in Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, branding, and digital campaign execution.
• Professional Demeanor: Be confident, articulate, and enthusiastic when presenting your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview preparation tips are tailored to the Graphic Designer role, focusing on how to effectively showcase design skills, process, and fit within the company's operational and cultural context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the IMG careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate your digital portfolio to prominently feature projects relevant to digital campaigns, branding, and social media content, ideally with examples showcasing work within or analogous to the sports industry.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 1-3 years of experience, proficiency in Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, and any experience with digital marketing or sports-related projects. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design process, articulate your rationale for design decisions, and practice presenting 2-3 key portfolio pieces that demonstrate your skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with IMG's digital services, recent campaigns for their clients, and the broader sports marketing landscape to articulate your interest and understanding during the interview.

⚠️ 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.