Graphic Designer, Properties

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer, Properties

Company: Excel Sports Management

Location: New York, New York, United States / West Hollywood, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-03-31T17:00:18

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in developing high-impact sponsorship proposals and sales collateral, directly supporting the monetization of major brand partnerships within the sports and entertainment sectors.

• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for translating complex partnership opportunities into compelling visual narratives that resonate with top-tier brands and clients.

• A key aspect of this position involves close collaboration with the marketing solutions and Excel Properties Division teams to manage and execute a pipeline of creative requests, ensuring brand consistency and quality across all materials.

• The role demands a proactive and adaptable designer who can quickly grasp new brand identities, maintain a high standard of visual excellence, and contribute to Excel Sports Management's reputation for innovative client solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities heavily lean into marketing operations and sales enablement by focusing on the creation of sales collateral for partnership opportunities. The "Properties" designation suggests a focus on the assets or entities being sponsored, requiring a strategic understanding of how design supports business development in sports and entertainment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design best-in-class sponsorship sales materials, with a strategic emphasis on Naming Rights and On-Uniform Branding opportunities, to create a compelling narrative for potential brand partners.

• Serve as a primary Graphic Designer, producing highly creative and visually impactful work that elevates the presentation of marquee partnership platforms and distinguishes Excel Sports Management from competitors.

• Collaborate effectively within the marketing solutions team to manage a dynamic pipeline of creative requests, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of assets supporting the entire Excel Properties Division.

• Demonstrate a solutions-driven mentality, adeptly navigating and incorporating feedback from internal stakeholders and external clients with professionalism and poise.

• Maintain clear, diplomatic, and efficient communication channels, especially under tight project timelines, to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

• Proactively explore and integrate new software, tools, and technologies, including AI-driven design solutions, to continuously raise the bar for creative output and maintain a competitive edge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core graphic design execution and strategic contribution to sales enablement. The emphasis on "Naming Rights and On-Uniform Branding" indicates a specialized focus within sports marketing property monetization, requiring designers to understand how visual elements directly impact potential deal closures.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Mastery of Adobe Creative Cloud suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for creating sophisticated visual assets.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with a strong command of PowerPoint and Google Slides for presentations and sales decks.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, showcasing strong organizational and prioritization skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Ceros for interactive digital content creation.

• Familiarity with video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or After Effects for dynamic multimedia presentations.

• Previous experience within the sports and/or entertainment industries, understanding the unique visual language and market dynamics.

• Ability to operate with discretion and maintain confidentiality across sensitive projects and client information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Ceros, Premiere Pro, and After Effects as "plus" skills suggests that while not strictly mandatory, proficiency in these areas would significantly enhance a candidate's application, particularly for roles involving interactive or motion graphics for sales presentations. The requirement for discretion and confidentiality is crucial given the nature of high-value sports and brand partnerships.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of design projects, with a strong emphasis on sponsorship proposals, sales collateral, and brand partnership materials.

• Demonstrate the ability to translate complex concepts and data into clear, compelling visual stories that drive engagement and decision-making.

• Include examples that highlight an understanding of brand identity, consistency, and the ability to adapt designs to various client needs and platforms.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how design processes are managed, from initial brief and concept development through to final asset delivery, including feedback incorporation.

• Illustrate experience in managing a pipeline of creative requests, demonstrating workflow efficiency and project management capabilities within a collaborative team setting.

• Showcase how design decisions are informed by market trends, audience insights, and the specific objectives of partnership opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on sales collateral, the portfolio should not just showcase aesthetic quality but also the strategic thinking behind the designs. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how their visual solutions directly supported sales objectives or conveyed the value of a partnership.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000 per year

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (comprehensive coverage for medical, dental, and vision).

• Discretionary Bonus (performance-based incentive tied to individual and company success).

• Paid Time Off (details typically include vacation, sick leave, and holidays).

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time)

• While a standard 40-hour work week is expected, the role may require availability for nights and weekends as needed to meet project deadlines and client demands, reflecting the dynamic nature of the sports and entertainment industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to New York City's Salary Transparency Law, as stated in the job description. It is a competitive range for a seasoned graphic designer with specialized experience in a high-cost-of-living area. The mention of a discretionary bonus indicates potential for higher earnings based on performance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports Agency / Brand Partnerships / Entertainment

Company Size: This is inferred to be a mid-sized to large organization within the sports agency sector, given its representation of "top-tier talent, blue-chip brands and marquee properties" and its presence in major markets like New York and West Hollywood.

Founded: Excel Sports Management was founded with a focus on high character, collaboration, and delivering innovative solutions, positioning itself as an industry leader.

Company Slogan: "Our success is rooted in our people, our high character reputation and our commitment to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace."

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the marketing solutions team, collaborating closely with members of the Excel Properties Division.

• The role involves reporting to a manager or director within the marketing/creative function, with potential for direct interaction with sales and partnership teams.

Methodology:

• Excel Sports Management emphasizes a data-driven approach to understanding market trends and client needs, informing creative strategies.

• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial, particularly in managing a pipeline of creative requests efficiently.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, with an openness to exploring new technologies like AI to enhance creative output and client offerings.

Company Website: http://www.excelsm.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes high character, diversity, and collaboration. For a designer, this means a supportive yet driven environment where creative input is valued, but also where efficiency and client-centric solutions are paramount. The focus on "marquee properties" suggests a high-stakes environment where quality and innovation are key differentiators.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level Graphic Designer, requiring significant professional experience and the ability to lead creative projects independently. It's a specialist role within the broader marketing and sales operations framework.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Marketing Manager, or a Director within the Properties Division. They will work closely with various internal teams, including sales and partnership management.

Operations Impact: The designer's work directly impacts the company's ability to secure lucrative brand partnerships. High-quality, persuasive sales collateral is essential for closing deals, thus contributing significantly to revenue generation and the overall success of the Properties Division.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in sports marketing, property monetization, and high-level brand partnership design.

• Leadership: Potential to move into a Senior Designer, Art Director, or Creative Lead role, managing junior designers or leading larger creative initiatives.

• Skill Expansion: Opportunities to develop proficiency in emerging design technologies (AI, interactive platforms) and potentially motion graphics or video editing.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience working with elite athletes, major brands, and high-profile sports properties.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within the specialized field of sports marketing design. Success here can lead to leadership opportunities and a deep understanding of the business development side of the sports industry, making it attractive for designers looking to specialize beyond general creative roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is designated as Hybrid, meaning a blend of in-office work and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The position can be based in either the New York City or West Hollywood, California offices.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, fast-paced, and dynamic, typical of a leading sports agency.

• Access to industry-standard design tools and technology will be provided.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of professionals across sales, marketing, and talent representation.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the role requires flexibility to work nights and weekends as needed to meet project deadlines and client demands. This is common in the sports and entertainment industry, especially during peak seasons or major client pitches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role offers flexibility, but the expectation of working nights and weekends underscores the demanding, results-oriented culture of a top-tier sports agency. Candidates should be prepared for a work environment that prioritizes client success and deal closure.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess foundational graphic design skills and relevant experience.

• Creative Challenge/Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing specific projects, design rationale, and how their work has contributed to business objectives. A design exercise or case study related to sponsorship proposals may be assigned.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Discussions focused on collaboration style, problem-solving abilities, understanding of the sports/entertainment industry, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic vision and long-term fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to highlight projects most relevant to sports marketing, brand partnerships, and sales collateral.

• For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your design process, the challenges faced, your solutions, and the tangible outcomes or impact (e.g., how it supported a sales pitch).

• Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Adobe CC, PowerPoint, and any other relevant software.

• Showcase your ability to adapt to different brand identities and maintain consistency across a series of materials.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the core objective (e.g., creating a compelling narrative for a sponsorship).

• Prioritize clear communication and a structured approach to your design process.

• Be ready to explain your creative decisions and how they align with the business goals.

• Demonstrate efficiency and attention to detail under time constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "solutions-driven mentality" and the need to "clearly articulate their approach" means candidates must be prepared to go beyond just showing pretty pictures. They need to demonstrate strategic thinking and business acumen in their design work and interview responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Mastery of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is essential for all graphic design tasks, from concept development to final asset production.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong proficiency in PowerPoint and Google Slides is critical for creating sales presentations and proposal decks that integrate design elements seamlessly.

• Ceros: Proficiency with Ceros is a preferred skill, indicating its use for creating interactive digital collateral and experiences for brand partnerships.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with how design assets are managed and distributed within a sales or marketing workflow might be advantageous, though not explicitly required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Ceros suggests the company utilizes it for creating dynamic, interactive digital proposals. Candidates with Ceros experience will have a significant advantage. The core requirement remains Adobe CC and presentation software proficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• High Character: Integrity and ethical conduct are paramount in all dealings, especially when representing top-tier talent and brands.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and mutual support across departments.

• Innovation: A commitment to staying ahead of the curve by embracing new ideas, technologies, and creative approaches.

• Client-Centricity: Dedication to delivering exceptional value and tailored solutions for clients and partners.

• Diversity & Inclusion: Fostering a welcoming and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates with a high degree of cross-functional integration, requiring designers to work closely with sales, marketing, and partnership managers.

• A culture of constructive feedback and continuous improvement is expected, with designers being open to diverse perspectives.

• Knowledge sharing is encouraged, particularly around best practices in design, market trends, and client engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of "High Character" and "Client-Centricity" are particularly important for a role that directly supports revenue-generating activities. Designers are expected to uphold these values in their work and interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: Juggling multiple high-priority projects simultaneously under tight deadlines requires exceptional time management and organizational skills.

• Diverse Client Needs: Adapting design styles and messaging to suit a wide range of brands and partnership objectives.

• Evolving Technology: Staying abreast of new design software, tools (like AI), and digital platforms to maintain a competitive edge.

• Feedback Management: Navigating feedback from various internal and external stakeholders with poise and professionalism.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Deepen expertise in sports marketing, property-specific branding, and sales enablement design.

• Industry Immersion: Gain unparalleled insight into the business of sports and entertainment partnerships.

• Technology Adoption: Opportunity to learn and implement cutting-edge design technologies, including AI tools, to enhance creative output.

• Networking: Build relationships within the sports and entertainment industry through high-profile projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a creative role in a high-performance agency, emphasizing the need for resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to skill development. The growth opportunities are significant for those looking to specialize in a lucrative and dynamic industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to create sales collateral for a complex partnership opportunity. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on strategic thinking, process, and impact.)

• "How do you balance creative vision with client feedback and brand guidelines, especially under tight deadlines?" (Assess adaptability, communication, and problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Excel Sports Management and our work in the sports and entertainment properties space?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, and how do you handle constructive criticism?" (Assess teamwork and interpersonal skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically: Introduction, Project Goal, Your Role, Design Process, Challenges, Solutions, Results/Impact.

• For each project, clearly articulate the "why" behind your design choices.

• Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, PowerPoint, and any other tools you used.

• Highlight projects demonstrating your ability to create compelling narratives for sales and partnerships.

• Showcase examples of adapting to different brand aesthetics and maintaining consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss not just their design skills but also their understanding of the sports agency business model and how their creative work directly supports revenue generation and client success. Quantifiable results are always a plus.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight experience directly relevant to sports marketing, brand partnerships, and sales collateral design. Curate your online portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating your ability to create compelling sponsorship proposals and sales materials.

• Resume Optimization: Use keywords from the job description, such as "sponsorship proposals," "sales collateral," "brand partnerships," "Adobe CC," "Photoshop," "InDesign," "Illustrator," and "PowerPoint." Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Designed collateral that supported X number of successful partnership deals").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and the business impact of your work. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions related to collaboration, problem-solving, and working under pressure. Be ready to walk through your portfolio with a focus on strategic design thinking.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Excel Sports Management, their recent deals, and key clients. Understand their brand identity and mission to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.