Middle-weight Graphic Designer - Support Functions

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Middle-weight Graphic Designer - Support Functions Company: Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Location: London - Hybrid, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: January 22, 2026 Experience Level: 3-5 Years Professional Experience

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for translating complex ideas into clear, accessible visual communication across a diverse range of mediums, including print, digital publications, data visualization, social media, events, and brand systems.
• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for the end-to-end design process, from conceptualization of ambiguous briefs to the delivery of production-ready assets in a fast-paced, public-facing environment.
• A strong emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary branded work, requiring a robust portfolio that showcases expertise in visual aesthetics, information design, motion graphics, and a systems-thinking approach to branding.
• This is a hands-on, collaborative role that blends creative execution with the practical application of design principles to support the Institute's global mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the description clearly positions this role within a "Support Functions" context, implying a critical role in enabling the Institute's operational and strategic initiatives through compelling visual communication. The focus on "complex ideas" and "delivering for their people" suggests a need for design that simplifies intricate policy, strategy, and technology concepts for various stakeholders, including governments and the public. This role is not purely aesthetic but is deeply tied to the Institute's mission and impact.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualization and Delivery: Take ambiguous briefs, develop compelling design concepts, present clear rationale for design choices, iterate rapidly based on feedback, and deliver polished, production-ready files.
• Publications and Editorial Design: Execute advanced typesetting and long-form layout for print, PDF, and web formats, including image research, asset preparation, and pre-flight setup for print.
• Presentation and Pitch Deck Design: Create visually engaging and branded presentations for both internal stakeholders and external partners, ensuring clarity and impact.
• Data Visualization and Information Design: Develop accurate, accessible, and readable charts, diagrams, and infographics, ensuring proper documentation, clear labeling, and adherence to accessibility standards, while also creating reusable design patterns.
• Social Media and Digital Asset Creation: Design platform-native creative content for key social channels (X, LinkedIn, Instagram) and secondary channels (YouTube, Facebook), maintaining agile templates and collaborating with the Video team on more complex assets.
• Event and Live Delivery Support: Develop visual identities, collateral, and signage for events, including large-format print, wayfinding, stage dressing, and screen packs, managing supplier liaisons and supporting real-time amends.
• Brand System Management: Apply and evolve the Institute's brand guidelines, create and update brand identity toolkits, and maintain Figma libraries, components, and documentation to ensure brand consistency.
• Motion Graphics and Animation: Produce light motion graphics, including text/shape animations, lower thirds, and looping social assets using After Effects, and collaborate with the Video team on larger animation projects.
• UI/UX Contribution: Contribute to user journeys, wireframe development, and UI mock-ups, support component systems, and leverage basic CSS knowledge where applicable.
• Project Communication and Management: Conduct regular check-ins, manage project timelines, identify and mitigate risks, secure approvals, and maintain organized file structures for efficient handover and collaboration.
• Continuous Improvement and Efficiency: Proactively identify opportunities to improve templates and design systems, share useful tools and plugins, and leverage AI tools to enhance production speed and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a broad scope for a graphic designer, extending beyond traditional print and digital design. The inclusion of "data visualisation & information design," "events & live delivery," and "UI & digital product" indicates a need for a versatile designer who can adapt to complex project requirements and contribute to various facets of the Institute's communication strategy. The emphasis on "systems mindset" and "Figma libraries" points towards an expectation of contribution to a structured and scalable design framework, crucial for a global organization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in graphic design principles, visual communication, and related fields is implied. A Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related discipline would be advantageous.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of professional graphic design experience, demonstrated through a strong portfolio.
• Proven experience in an in-house or agency setting, with a track record of working on multidisciplinary branded projects.

Required Skills:

• Advanced Typography and Layout: Exceptional command of typography, hierarchy, and editorial judgment for both print and digital mediums.
• Information Design and Data Literacy: Ability to interpret complex information and translate it into clear, accurate, and visually compelling data visualizations and diagrams.
• Multi-Channel Design Craft: Proficiency in designing for print, digital platforms (including social media), and large-format event collateral.
• Clear Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to present design concepts and rationale effectively to diverse stakeholders.
• Time Management and Adaptability: Strong ability to manage multiple concurrent briefs, prioritize tasks, and remain calm and effective under changing project plans and tight deadlines.
• Advanced Adobe Creative Suite: Mastery of InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects, and Acrobat for professional design output.
• Advanced Figma Proficiency: Expertise in using Figma for component creation, style management, library development, and prototyping.
• Microsoft 365 Proficiency: Competence in Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for document creation, presentations, and data handling.

Preferred Skills:

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools such as Flourish.
• 3D Software: Basic knowledge of Blender.
• Web Technologies: Basic understanding of CSS, and awareness of HTML/CSS constraints.
• Proactive Learning: A mindset that embraces continuous learning, sharing knowledge, and contributing to the improvement of design systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are extensive, pointing to a "mid-weight" role that demands a high level of technical proficiency and creative problem-solving. The emphasis on both "craft" and "systems" (Figma libraries, reusable patterns) suggests the Institute is looking for a designer who can contribute to both immediate project needs and the long-term scalability of their brand assets. The inclusion of "data literacy" and "information design" underscores the analytical nature of the role, requiring designers to understand and simplify complex subject matter.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Multidisciplinary Branded Work: Showcase a range of projects demonstrating expertise across publications, data visualization/information design, social media assets, event collateral, and brand system application.
• Concept to Delivery Examples: Include case studies or project examples that illustrate the ability to take an ambiguous brief through to a final, polished output, detailing the design process and rationale.
• Data Visualization Samples: Present clear examples of complex data translated into understandable charts, graphs, or infographics, highlighting accuracy and accessibility.
• Brand System Application: Demonstrate how you've applied and potentially evolved existing brand guidelines, showing consistency and creativity within a defined system.
• Digital and Print Integration: Show examples of how designs have been adapted and optimized for different platforms (print, web, social) while maintaining brand integrity.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Examples of how you've approached the design process, from brief interpretation and concept development to iteration and final file delivery.
• System Implementation: Showcase experience in creating or maintaining design systems, Figma libraries, components, and style guides.
• Performance Measurement: While not explicitly stated, demonstrating how your designs have contributed to project goals or improved communication effectiveness would be beneficial.
• Collaboration and Feedback: Include examples that show how you've managed feedback and collaborated with teams (e.g., Social, Video, Project Management) to refine designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is paramount. It needs to go beyond just showcasing pretty pictures. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their process, explain their decisions, and demonstrate how they've tackled complex design challenges. The emphasis on "systems mindset" and "Figma libraries" suggests that their ability to contribute to a scalable and consistent design infrastructure will be a key evaluation criterion.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on location (London, UK), experience level (3-5 years), and the nature of the organization (Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, a non-profit with a global mission), a competitive salary range can be estimated. In London, for a mid-weight Graphic Designer with the specified skills and responsibilities, the typical annual salary would likely fall between £35,000 and £50,000.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimate is based on research of similar "Middle-weight Graphic Designer" roles in London, UK, on major job boards, considering the non-profit sector (which can sometimes offer slightly lower salaries than corporate but often with strong benefits packages) and the demanding skill set required. The Institute's global reach and impact suggest they would aim for a competitive offering to attract talent.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Model: Offers flexibility with a blend of remote and in-office work, promoting work-life balance.
• Impactful Work: Opportunity to contribute to a globally recognized organization focused on driving positive change and tackling significant international challenges.
• Professional Development: Access to learning opportunities, workshops, and potential for growth within the Institute's diverse teams.
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a global team of experts across various disciplines, fostering a rich learning and exchange environment.
• Standard Benefits: Likely includes pension contributions, paid time off, and other statutory benefits typical for full-time roles in the UK.

Working Hours:

• Full-time position.
• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• The hybrid model allows for flexibility in structuring these hours, with a requirement to be present in the London office on designated days for collaboration and team engagement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Think Tanks, Policy Advisory, International Development, Political Change. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) operates at the intersection of politics, technology, and public service, aiming to help governments deliver for their citizens. Company Size: Over 800 employees globally, operating in more than 40 countries. This indicates a substantial organization with a significant international footprint. Founded: The Institute was founded in 2015. This relatively recent establishment suggests a dynamic and potentially agile organizational structure, likely embracing modern operational practices and technologies.

Team Structure:

• Support Functions: The role is part of "Support Functions," implying it's a crucial enabling team that provides essential services to the Institute's core operational and advisory teams.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The Graphic Designer will work closely with Social, Video, and Project Management teams, and with stakeholders across the Institute. This necessitates strong collaborative skills and an understanding of how design integrates with other communication disciplines.
• Reporting: Likely reports into a Head of Design, Creative Director, or a Communications/Marketing Lead within the Support Functions or a dedicated Creative team.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Strategy: TBI emphasizes using data and technology to inform strategy and delivery, suggesting that design work will need to be grounded in clear communication of research, policy, and impact.
• Pragmatic and Delivery-Focused: The Institute's slogan, "We don’t just talk, we do. Lead the change with us," highlights a culture of action and tangible results. Design solutions must be practical and contribute to delivery.
• Openness and Inclusivity: TBI values diversity of background and perspective, fostering a culture that nurtures difference and unlocks potential.

Company Website: https://institute.global/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding TBI's mission – helping governments turn bold ideas into reality – is key. This graphic designer role is not just about aesthetics; it's about making complex, important work accessible and impactful. The "Support Functions" designation means this role is vital for the smooth operation and outward communication of the Institute's global initiatives.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Middle-weight" position, indicating a level beyond junior but not yet senior or lead. It requires independent execution of tasks, ability to manage multiple projects, and a solid understanding of design principles and tools. The role demands a blend of creative execution and practical application, with some expectation of contributing to design systems and processes.

Reporting Structure: The role is expected to collaborate closely with Social, Video, and Project Management teams and report to a manager within the Support Functions, likely a Head of Design or Creative Lead. This structure allows for both specialized design work and integration into broader communication strategies.

Operations Impact: The graphic designer's work directly impacts the Institute's ability to communicate complex policy, strategy, and technology to diverse audiences, including political leaders, governments, and the public. Effective visual communication can enhance understanding, drive engagement, and ultimately support the Institute's mission of fostering positive change in countries worldwide. This role is critical for brand perception, clarity of messaging, and the overall effectiveness of TBI's outreach and advisory services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in areas like data visualization, motion graphics, or UI design through project work and professional development.
• Brand System Development: Opportunity to contribute significantly to the evolution and maintenance of TBI's brand identity toolkits and Figma libraries, developing a strong understanding of scalable design systems.
• Leadership Potential: As a middle-weight designer, successful performance can lead to opportunities for senior designer roles, where they might mentor junior designers, lead specific projects, or take on more strategic design responsibilities.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Working closely with various teams provides exposure to different aspects of the Institute's operations, potentially opening doors to roles in communications, digital strategy, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Middle-weight" designation means candidates are expected to be largely autonomous on assigned tasks but also capable of learning and contributing to broader design strategies. Growth here is likely tied to taking on more complex projects, leading design on specific initiatives, and potentially moving towards a senior or specialized design role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, indicating a mix of remote work and in-office collaboration. This suggests a modern approach to work that balances flexibility with the need for in-person interaction.

Office Location(s): London, United Kingdom. This places the designer within a major global hub, offering access to diverse professional networks and resources. Specific office details would be provided upon engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The London office likely serves as a hub for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and cross-functional collaboration, particularly with the Social, Video, and Project Management teams.
• Technology-Rich Environment: As TBI emphasizes technology, expect access to up-to-date design software and hardware necessary for high-quality creative output.
• Global Connectivity: The hybrid model and international presence mean that collaboration will often extend beyond the immediate office, requiring proficiency in digital communication tools.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time (40 hours per week).
• The hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility, but specific in-office days will likely be communicated to facilitate team coordination and collaboration. This structure supports the need for focused individual work (remote) and team synergy (in-office).

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a balance between focused individual work and essential collaborative sessions. Candidates should be comfortable with both remote autonomy and in-person teamwork, and adept at using digital tools to stay connected and productive across different work settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on CV and portfolio alignment with the required skills and experience.
• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing their process, design rationale, and how they've tackled specific challenges (e.g., data visualization, brand application). This stage will assess technical skills, creative thinking, and communication abilities.
• Skills-Based Exercise/Case Study: A practical design challenge may be given, either as a take-home assignment or an in-interview task, to evaluate problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. This could involve designing a piece of collateral or adapting an existing brand element.
• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key collaborators (e.g., Social Media Manager, Video Producer, Project Manager) to assess cultural fit, teamwork capabilities, and understanding of cross-functional needs.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Head of Communications, Director of Support Functions) to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit with the Institute's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest work that directly addresses the requirements of this role (publications, data viz, social, events, brand systems).
• Detail Your Process: For each project, explain the brief, your conceptual thinking, design decisions, challenges encountered, and the final outcome. Use visuals to illustrate your journey.
• Quantify Impact (Where Possible): If you can, mention how your design contributed to project success or communication goals.
• Highlight Tool Proficiency: Explicitly mention the tools used (Adobe CC, Figma) and your level of expertise.
• Demonstrate Systems Thinking: Show examples of how you've applied brand guidelines consistently or contributed to design systems.
• Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to verbally walk through your portfolio, articulate your rationale clearly, and answer questions about your work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand TBI's Mission: Research the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, its work, and its target audiences.
• Review Brand Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with TBI's visual identity if publicly available.
• Practice Data Visualization: Be prepared to discuss how you approach designing clear and accurate data representations.
• Motion Graphics Basics: Brush up on your After Effects skills for simple animations.
• Figma Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with Figma components, libraries, and styles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, focusing on both creative output and the ability to integrate into a mission-driven organization. A strong portfolio that showcases versatility, a clear understanding of process, and the ability to communicate effectively will be critical. The "Support Functions" aspect means demonstrating how design supports broader organizational goals will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud:
  • InDesign: Essential for publications, long-form layout, typesetting, and print-ready file preparation.
  • Illustrator: Crucial for vector graphics, logos, icons, infographics, and complex illustrations.
  • Photoshop: Necessary for image editing, manipulation, and creating digital assets.
  • After Effects: Required for motion graphics, animations, lower thirds, and social media video assets.
  • Acrobat: For PDF creation, editing, and pre-flight checks.
• Figma: Advanced proficiency is a core requirement for UI design, prototyping, component creation, style management, library development, and maintaining design systems.

Analytics & Reporting: While not directly a design tool, an understanding of how design assets perform on digital platforms (e.g., social media engagement metrics) and how data is presented in reports would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the graphic designer's core tools, but awareness of how design assets are deployed within marketing or communication workflows might be useful.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on Adobe Creative Suite and Figma, reflecting industry standards for graphic design and UI/UX work. Proficiency in these tools, particularly Figma for its role in design systems and collaboration, is non-negotiable. The mention of "AI tools" suggests an openness to leveraging new technologies for efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Impact-Driven: A core value is making a tangible difference in the world by supporting political leaders and governments. Design work should contribute to this mission.
• Pragmatism and Delivery: A "doer" culture that values practical solutions and execution over abstract ideas. Designs must be functional and achievable.
• Openness and Collaboration: Valuing diverse perspectives and working collaboratively across teams and geographies. Design should facilitate clear communication and understanding among diverse stakeholders.
• Detail-Oriented Excellence: A commitment to high standards and quality in all outputs, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and accessibility in design.
• Innovation and Adaptability: Embracing technology and new approaches to drive change and improve processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The designer will work closely with Social, Video, and Project Management teams, requiring a collaborative approach to integrate design with other communication efforts.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Regular interaction with various stakeholders across the Institute, necessitating clear communication, active listening, and the ability to translate feedback into design solutions.
• Feedback Culture: An environment where constructive feedback is shared and utilized to refine designs and improve processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, tools, and learnings within the design and broader communications teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at TBI appears to be driven by a strong sense of purpose, a pragmatic approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to collaboration. Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with these values, showcasing how their design approach contributes to the Institute's mission and how they effectively collaborate with diverse teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: The primary challenge will be to simplify highly complex political, policy, and technological concepts into accessible and engaging visual communications for diverse audiences.
• Balancing Brand Consistency with Project Needs: Maintaining a cohesive brand identity across a wide range of creative outputs and collaborating teams while meeting specific project requirements.
• Agile Production Environment: Working in a dynamic, public-facing environment means adapting quickly to changing priorities, tight deadlines, and iterative feedback.
• Cross-Cultural Communication Design: Designing for an international audience requires sensitivity to cultural nuances and accessibility standards across different regions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Specialization: Opportunities to become an expert in specific areas like data visualization, motion graphics, or UI/UX through hands-on experience and potentially targeted training.
• Contribute to Design Systems: Play a key role in refining and expanding TBI's design systems and Figma libraries, developing expertise in scalable design architecture.
• Broader Strategic Exposure: Gain insights into the Institute's global strategy, policy work, and technological initiatives, enhancing understanding of how design supports organizational objectives.
• Professional Networks: Connect with a diverse international team of experts, fostering professional growth and potential future opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to working in a global, mission-driven organization that deals with complex subject matter. These challenges also present significant growth opportunities for a designer looking to expand their skill set and impact.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a visual narrative for a complex policy report aimed at government officials, considering both print and digital distribution?" (Assesses understanding of information design, audience targeting, and multi-channel output).
• "Describe a time you received ambiguous design feedback. How did you clarify it and ensure the final design met the stakeholder's needs?" (Evaluates communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills).
• "How do you ensure data visualizations are both accurate and accessible to a general audience?" (Tests knowledge of data literacy, design principles for clarity, and accessibility standards).
• "Walk us through a project where you had to balance brand consistency with the unique requirements of a specific campaign or event." (Assesses brand application, creative problem-solving, and project execution).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change's mission, and how do you see your design skills contributing to it?" (Gauges alignment with organizational values and purpose).
• "How do you typically collaborate with Social Media or Video teams? Describe a successful cross-functional project." (Assesses teamwork and integration capabilities).
• "How do you stay updated on design trends, particularly in areas like motion graphics or AI-assisted design?" (Examines proactive learning and adaptability).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a brief overview of your experience and highlight 2-3 key projects that best represent your suitability for this role.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your problem-solving approach, design decisions, challenges, and the final outcome. Use visuals to support your narrative.
• Focus on Process: Emphasize your thinking process, tool usage (especially Figma and Adobe CC), and how you iterated to achieve the best results.
• Quantify if Possible: If you have metrics on how your design improved engagement or clarity, present them.
• Be Prepared for Specifics: Anticipate questions about your typography choices, data visualization techniques, brand application, and motion graphics capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skill but also an understanding of TBI's mission, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to translate complex information visually. Being able to articulate your design process and rationale clearly is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating your expertise in publications, data visualization, social media assets, event design, and brand system application, specifically showcasing your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and Figma.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3-5 years of relevant experience, emphasizing achievements in areas like information design, multi-channel craft, and project management. Use keywords from the job description such as "typography," "data visualization," "Figma," and "Adobe CC."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, rationale, and how your work aligns with TBI's mission. Prepare to present your portfolio and discuss case studies related to complex information design and brand system application.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, its mission, recent projects, and target audiences to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding during interviews.

⚠️ 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.