Lead Graphic Designer (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Graphic Designer (m/w/d) Company: Colliers International EMEA Location: Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany Job Type: Full-time Category: Marketing & Design Operations Date Posted: January 14, 2026 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive creative strategy and execution for branding, editorial, and web design initiatives within Colliers International EMEA.
• Lead the conceptualization and development of high-quality design assets for marketing collateral, pitches, and digital platforms.
• Manage and guide external creative resources, including freelance designers and developers, ensuring project success and adherence to brand standards.
• Provide technical and conceptual design direction to less experienced team members and colleagues from other departments.
• Uphold and elevate the aesthetic and conceptual quality of all company communication media, aligning with Colliers' brand identity and market positioning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Lead Graphic Designer, implying a need for both strong individual contribution and leadership/mentorship capabilities. The focus on "Branding, Editorial Design, and Web Design" suggests a need for versatility across different design disciplines, with an emphasis on integrated marketing communications. The "m/w/d" (männlich/weiblich/divers) indicates an inclusive hiring practice.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative creative approaches for branding, editorial layouts, and web design projects.
• Execute design solutions from initial concept through to final production-ready artwork for print and digital marketing materials.
• Manage the creative briefing process and oversee external vendors (freelance designers, developers) to ensure timely and high-quality project delivery.
• Offer guidance and support to junior designers and colleagues with less design experience to foster skill development and maintain design consistency.
• Ensure all communication media meet rigorous conceptual and aesthetic quality standards, reflecting the Colliers brand.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and other internal teams to understand project requirements and deliver designs that effectively support business objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest design trends, technologies, and best practices to continuously enhance creative output.
• Prepare and present design concepts and final artwork to internal stakeholders, articulating design rationale and strategic alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a blend of hands-on design work and project/team management. The emphasis on "pitches and marketing materials" highlights the role's direct contribution to business development and client acquisition efforts within the real estate sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Communication Design, or a related creative field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a significant portion in a Senior Art Director or Lead Designer capacity.
• Proven experience in developing and executing creative concepts across branding, editorial, and web design.
• Demonstrated success in managing design projects from ideation to production.

Required Skills:

• Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and proficiency in MS Office.
• Exceptional skills in image composition, typography, and creating high-quality, impactful designs.
• Strong understanding of innovative design techniques and creative execution methods.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Proven ability to work independently, structure tasks effectively, and deliver results.
• Strong team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially during time-critical projects.
• Native-level proficiency in German (written and spoken).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the Real Estate or Investment sector.
• Advanced knowledge of web design principles and UI/UX concepts.
• Experience in managing and directing external creative agencies or freelance talent.
• Good command of English (written and spoken).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "100% Mac-versiert" strongly indicates a Mac-based operating environment. The explicit mention of "Senior Art Director" experience suggests the need for a candidate with a strong portfolio demonstrating leadership in creative direction and execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects across branding, editorial design, and web design.
• Case studies demonstrating the ideation process, creative problem-solving, and final design execution.
• Examples of successful collaboration with internal teams and/or external service providers.
• Visual evidence of strong typography, image composition, and a high aesthetic standard.
• Demonstrations of adaptability to different project types and client needs within the real estate industry (if applicable).

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how creative briefs were translated into design concepts and final assets.
• Documentation of workflow for managing external designers and production processes.
• Evidence of quality assurance processes for design deliverables.
• Case studies illustrating how design solutions contributed to marketing or business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead Graphic Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase creative talent but also the ability to manage projects, lead initiatives, and produce results that align with business goals, particularly in a fast-paced corporate environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range of €55,000 - €75,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• 30 days of paid vacation per year.
• Option for mobile working (hybrid model).
• Company pension scheme (Betriebliche Altersvorsorge).
• Subsidy for EGYM Wellpass Card for fitness and wellness.
• Opportunities for extensive and diverse internal training and professional development.
• Family services, including emergency childcare support.
• A professional working environment with excellent career advancement opportunities.
• Access to a dynamic, open, and motivated team with a collegial atmosphere.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for a Lead Graphic Designer with 5-10 years of experience in a major German city like Düsseldorf, considering the industry (real estate services) and the responsibilities outlined. Benefits are detailed as provided in the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Real Estate Services. Colliers International is a global leader in the industry, providing a wide range of services including investment sales, leasing, property management, and strategic consulting. Company Size: Colliers International Group Inc. is a large, publicly traded company with approximately 23,000 employees in 70 countries. The German entity (Colliers International Deutschland GmbH) operates across multiple major cities. Founded: Colliers International has a long history, with its origins tracing back to 1976, though its current structure has evolved over time.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Marketing or Communications department.
• This department collaborates closely with various business lines (Office, Retail, Industrial, Residential, Capital Markets) and Occupier Services.
• The role involves working with less experienced designers and cross-functional teams.
• Reporting is likely to a Marketing Director or Head of Communications.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven insights for marketing and design strategies, leveraging market intelligence from the real estate sector.
• Workflow optimization to ensure efficient delivery of creative assets for sales pitches, marketing campaigns, and client presentations.
• Collaboration with sales and leasing teams to create materials that support deal-making and client engagement.
• A focus on maintaining high aesthetic quality and brand consistency across all communications.

Company Website: www.colliers.de

📝 Enhancement Note: As a global real estate services firm, Colliers likely values professionalism, client-centricity, and a data-informed approach. The design team's role is crucial in visually representing the brand and supporting business development efforts in a competitive market.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Lead/Senior level within the creative function, often considered a senior individual contributor role with leadership responsibilities. It bridges hands-on design execution with creative direction and team guidance.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Graphic Designer will report to a senior marketing or communications leader. They will also manage and mentor junior designers or creative staff and collaborate extensively with marketing managers, sales teams, and property specialists.

Operations Impact: The Lead Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the company's brand perception, the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, and the quality of materials used in client pitches and presentations. High-quality design is essential for conveying professionalism and credibility in the high-stakes real estate market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like branding for real estate, digital marketing design, or motion graphics.
• Leadership: Transition into a Creative Director or Head of Design role, managing larger teams and broader creative strategies.
• Cross-functional Mobility: Move into broader marketing management roles or strategic brand management positions within the company or the wider real estate industry.
• Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge in real estate marketing, enhancing value and career progression within the sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a large, international organization. The "Lead" title suggests a stepping stone to more senior leadership roles, particularly if the candidate demonstrates strong strategic thinking and team management capabilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Düsseldorf, Germany, at Colliers' office location. Given the "Hybrid" work arrangement, this implies a modern office space designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused individual work. Office Location(s): Düsseldorf, Germany (Königsallee 60 C, 40212).

Workspace Context:

• A hybrid work model suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, requiring strong self-management and communication skills.
• The workspace likely includes modern design software and hardware (Mac-based), along with collaborative meeting spaces.
• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of real estate professionals, marketers, and other designers.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility offered through the hybrid model.
• The ability to manage workload effectively to meet project deadlines is crucial, especially during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect, indicating a modern work environment. Candidates should be comfortable with a mix of in-office collaboration and remote work, demonstrating proficiency in remote communication and project management tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV, cover letter, and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative fit.
• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing key projects, design rationale, and their approach to creative challenges. This will be followed by an interview with the hiring manager (Ken Kniss) and potentially other team members.
• Skills Assessment/Creative Challenge: A practical design task or case study may be assigned to evaluate design skills, problem-solving abilities, and conceptual thinking under time pressure.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader in the marketing or operations department to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to highlight projects most relevant to Colliers' industry (real estate) and the specific requirements (branding, editorial, web design).
• Prepare to discuss your creative process, from brief interpretation to final execution, emphasizing strategic thinking and problem-solving.
• Quantify results where possible: e.g., "This design increased engagement by X%" or "This campaign supported a Y% increase in leads."
• Be ready to articulate your leadership style and experience in guiding junior team members or managing external vendors.
• Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., online link) and well-organized.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with Colliers' brand guidelines and recent marketing materials.
• Practice articulating design concepts clearly and concisely, explaining the "why" behind your creative decisions.
• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a typical design request for a real estate project (e.g., designing a brochure for a new office building listing).
• Understand the importance of brand consistency and how to adapt designs for different media (print vs. digital).

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "pitches and marketing materials" suggests that interviewers will look for a candidate who understands how design contributes to sales and business development. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate this understanding through their portfolio and interview responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for all design tasks. Proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is mandatory.
• Mac Operating System: The job explicitly states "100% Mac-versiert."
• Microsoft Office Suite: Basic knowledge required for document creation and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) for web design projects and understanding how design impacts engagement metrics would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the core design function, but understanding how design assets integrate with CRM or marketing automation platforms (e.g., email marketing templates) could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for Mac proficiency and the Adobe Creative Suite is critical. Any candidate not meeting these core technical requirements should not apply.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality and Aesthetics: A strong emphasis on high-quality design, attention to detail, and a sophisticated aesthetic sensibility is paramount.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams, including marketing, sales, and other creative professionals, fostering a supportive and communicative environment.
• Efficiency: Managing projects effectively to meet deadlines and deliver results in a timely manner, especially in a fast-paced corporate setting.
• Innovation: Openness to new design techniques and creative approaches that can elevate the Colliers brand in the market.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of professional conduct and client interaction.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be collaborative, working closely with marketing managers to understand campaign goals and with sales teams to create impactful collateral.
• Will provide guidance and mentorship to junior members, fostering a team environment where feedback is shared constructively.
• Requires clear communication with external vendors to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely values results, professionalism, and a collaborative spirit, essential for a global firm like Colliers operating in the competitive real estate market.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing the creative demands of various business units within Colliers, each with potentially different design needs and priorities.
• Managing multiple high-priority projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, common in a client-facing industry.
• Ensuring brand consistency across a wide range of marketing materials and digital platforms.
• Integrating innovative design trends while maintaining the established corporate brand identity.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to attend industry workshops, webinars, or courses to stay updated on design software, techniques, and trends.
• Real Estate Market Insight: Gaining a deeper understanding of the real estate industry, which can lead to more effective and strategic design solutions.
• Leadership Development: As a lead role, opportunities to develop management and mentorship skills.
• Cross-functional exposure: Learning about different aspects of the real estate business through collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a lead creative role in a large corporation. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for someone looking to specialize in real estate marketing design and potentially move into broader leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance competing creative demands from different stakeholders. How did you manage it?" (Focus on prioritization, communication, and compromise.)
• "Walk us through your process for developing a new brand identity or campaign concept. What are the key stages?" (Highlight your conceptual thinking, research, and execution methodology.)
• "How do you ensure your designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also strategically effective in achieving business goals, particularly in a real estate context?" (Connect design to ROI, lead generation, or brand perception.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Colliers International, and specifically in the real estate industry?" (Research Colliers' recent projects, values, and market position.)
• "How would you contribute to our team's collaborative environment and mentor junior designers?" (Showcase your teamwork and leadership potential.)
• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and technologies, and how do you decide which ones are relevant for a corporate brand like Colliers?" (Demonstrate continuous learning and strategic application of trends.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects.
• For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges, your creative process, the solution, and the outcome/impact.
• Be prepared to discuss your design choices (typography, color, imagery) and how they align with the project's objectives.
• Have a backup plan for your presentation (e.g., PDF) in case of technical difficulties with online links.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not only their creative talent but also their understanding of business objectives and their ability to lead and collaborate within a corporate structure.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Craft a compelling cover letter that highlights your relevant experience, your passion for design, and why you are a good fit for Colliers International and the real estate industry. Tailor it to the specific requirements of this role.
• Optimize your resume to clearly showcase your years of experience, key skills (especially Adobe Creative Suite and Mac proficiency), and any relevant achievements, using keywords from the job description.
• Prepare your portfolio for review, ensuring it is easily accessible online and contains your best work that aligns with branding, editorial, and web design. Be ready to discuss your projects in detail during an interview.
• Research Colliers International EMEA: Understand their services, target markets, recent projects, and brand identity to demonstrate genuine interest and to tailor your 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.