Sr. Associate Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Associate Graphic Designer Company: McKesson Location: Shanghai, China Job Type: Full-time Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations Date Posted: February 12, 2026 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to the visual identity and brand consistency of McKesson's private label product portfolio, focusing on packaging and labeling design.
• It requires a blend of creative execution, project management, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure brand standards are met from concept to production.
• The position involves managing relationships with internal teams and external suppliers, ensuring seamless execution of design projects within defined brand guidelines.
• A critical aspect is the research and application of design trends and regulatory requirements to maintain brand relevance and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Sr. Associate Graphic Designer," the core responsibilities and emphasis on packaging, labeling, brand style guides, and cross-functional collaboration with product development, sourcing, and QA teams strongly align with a specialized role within marketing or creative operations, particularly focused on Go-To-Market (GTM) readiness for product launches and updates. The mention of "Communications Associate" in the description further supports this.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain product packaging and labeling for the company’s private label product portfolio, strictly adhering to established brand style guides.
• Manage the entire artwork lifecycle, from initial design concepts and internal/external stakeholder approvals through print proofs and final production, ensuring timely delivery and quality.
• Execute packaging projects for both new and existing products, ensuring all brand assets, including logos, icons, and artwork files, are accurately archived and accessible.
• Foster and maintain strong relationships with external vendors and suppliers, ensuring clear communication and partnership to facilitate efficient production processes.
• Collaborate extensively with brand management, product development, sourcing, quality assurance (QA), and other internal departments to ensure design accuracy, regulatory compliance, and consistent brand representation.
• Proactively identify, communicate, and resolve any packaging-related issues that may arise during the design or production phases, minimizing potential delays or quality compromises.
• Conduct regular reviews of existing packaging materials to ensure ongoing adherence to brand standards and regulatory requirements, updating them as necessary.
• Research emerging packaging and design trends, as well as relevant state and federal regulatory requirements, to inform and refine packaging strategies and style guides.
• Act as a brand guardian, enforcing brand standards across all packaging touchpoints to ensure uniformity and consistency of brand elements.
• Review and approve print proofs and physical packaging samples to guarantee alignment with design specifications and quality expectations before mass production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities heavily lean into operations by emphasizing the management of workflows, vendor relations, compliance checks, and ensuring GTM readiness through accurate product packaging. This goes beyond pure graphic design and into the operational execution of brand strategy.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Graphic Arts, Packaging Design, Visual Communications Arts, or a closely related field.

Experience: A minimum of 2+ years of professional graphic design experience, with a specific requirement for demonstrable experience in packaging design. Proven experience managing design projects from initial concept through final production is essential.

Required Skills:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in graphic design, with a focus on packaging.
• Minimum 2 years of experience managing design projects from conceptualization through final production.
• Minimum 2 years of proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, with advanced skills in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.
• Minimum 2 years of experience working with Mac Operating Systems.
• Minimum 2 years of experience demonstrating a strong understanding of basic color theory principles.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) for reporting and communication.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with retail or private label packaging, particularly within the medical products or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sectors.
• Experience working within a graphic design firm, advertising agency, or an in-house marketing/creative department.
• Excellent skills in design conceptualization, branding, layout composition, color application, and typography.
• A keen attention to detail coupled with a genuine passion for branding and design excellence.
• Proficiency in product photography and image editing techniques.
• Demonstrated illustration capabilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to balance multiple competing priorities, perform effectively under deadline pressure, and collaborate seamlessly in a fast-paced environment.
• Capacity to follow instructions while also exercising independent judgment, with sound reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• A critical thinking mindset capable of adapting standards to diverse packaging formats and developing innovative design concepts.
• Resilience and the ability to respond constructively to criticism and feedback on designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on process management (design through production), vendor communication, and adherence to strict brand guidelines and regulatory requirements suggests that candidates with operations or project management experience within a creative context will be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 distinct packaging design projects that demonstrate a strong understanding of brand style guide adherence and adaptability across different product types.
• Include examples of artwork that have successfully navigated internal and external stakeholder approval processes, highlighting your ability to manage feedback and revisions.
• Present projects that illustrate your end-to-end involvement, from initial design concept development through to final print-ready files and production oversight.
• Demonstrate projects that required adaptation of brand standards to various packaging formats (e.g., boxes, labels, pouches, cartons), showcasing versatility.
• If possible, include examples of how you researched and incorporated regulatory requirements into packaging design.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal workflow for managing a packaging design project, from brief to final delivery, emphasizing stages of review and approval.
• Highlight your methods for archiving design assets, ensuring proper file management and version control for brand assets like logos, icons, and artwork.
• Explain your approach to collaborating with cross-functional teams (e.g., Brand Management, Product Development, QA, Sourcing) and external vendors, detailing communication strategies and issue resolution.
• Provide examples of how you have ensured brand consistency and compliance across multiple brands or product lines.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving packaging design and production management, a strong portfolio is crucial. It should not only display creative talent but also evidence of process management, attention to detail, and the ability to work within operational constraints and regulatory frameworks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the Sr. Associate level, 2+ years of experience, and location in Shanghai, China, the estimated annual salary range for a Sr. Associate Graphic Designer at a multinational corporation like McKesson would typically fall between ¥180,000 - ¥280,000 CNY. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for graphic design roles with specialized packaging experience in major Chinese metropolitan areas, considering the cost of living and competitive market rates for skilled professionals.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Such as a company-sponsored pension or 401(k)-equivalent plan.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and continued education in design and project management.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.
• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and company performance.
• Commuting Assistance: Potential support for transportation costs to the office.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime during peak project periods. The role is primarily on-site in Shanghai.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on market data for similar roles in Shanghai, China, factoring in experience level and industry. Benefits are standard for multinational corporations in the region.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, and Medical Technology. McKesson is a leading global provider of integrated healthcare solutions, touching virtually every aspect of healthcare.

Company Size: McKesson is a Fortune 500 company with over 60,000 employees worldwide, indicating a large, established corporate environment with structured processes and significant market reach.

Founded: McKesson was founded in 1833, giving it a long history and deep experience in the healthcare sector. This longevity suggests a culture that values stability, expertise, and long-term strategic planning.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the McKesson Brands team, likely part of a broader Marketing or Creative department.
• This team is responsible for the strategy, development, and execution of branding and packaging for McKesson's private label products.
• Collaboration is expected with Brand Management, Product Development, Sourcing, Quality Assurance (QA), and external suppliers, indicating a cross-functional operational matrix.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on adhering to brand style guides and incorporating regulatory requirements suggests a methodical approach to design that prioritizes accuracy and compliance.
• Process Optimization: The focus on managing artwork from design through production, including approvals and print proofing, points to an operational approach to creative execution.
• Collaboration & Communication: The need to work closely with multiple internal and external stakeholders highlights a culture that values clear communication and partnership to achieve project goals efficiently.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's scale and industry suggest a professional, compliance-focused environment where operational efficiency and brand integrity are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Sr. Associate Graphic Designer role represents an intermediate career stage. It requires independent execution of core responsibilities with some latitude for independent judgment and concept development, but likely within established frameworks. It's a stepping stone to more senior design or specialized roles.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a manager within the McKesson Brands team, likely a Brand Manager or Creative Manager, who oversees the private label product portfolio's visual identity and marketing execution.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the marketability and perceived quality of McKesson's private label products. Effective packaging design is crucial for shelf appeal, brand recognition, consumer trust, and ensuring compliance with regulations, all of which contribute to sales performance and operational efficiency in the supply chain.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in packaging design, particularly within the healthcare or CPG sectors, becoming a subject matter expert.
• Senior Designer/Art Director: Progression to a Senior Designer or Art Director role, taking on more complex projects, leading design initiatives, and mentoring junior designers.
• Brand Management: Potential transition into Brand Management roles, leveraging design understanding to contribute more strategically to brand development and marketing initiatives.
• Creative Operations: Opportunity to move into roles focused on the operational aspects of creative production, workflow optimization, and vendor management within a larger marketing or creative department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for honing specialized design skills and provides exposure to the operational aspects of bringing products to market, which can lead to broader career opportunities in marketing and operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, suggesting a traditional office environment within McKesson's Shanghai facilities.

Office Location(s): Suite D 7F Development Bank Tower, Shanghai, China. This location in a major metropolitan hub indicates a professional corporate setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires significant interaction with various internal teams (Brand Management, Product Development, Sourcing, QA) and external suppliers, suggesting a dynamic and collaborative office atmosphere.
• Tools & Technology: Expect access to standard office technology and design software (Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office) on Mac operating systems.
• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project reviews, and informal discussions are likely to foster a sense of shared purpose and facilitate problem-solving.

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, with standard office hours. Flexibility might be available, but the core requirement is on-site presence for collaborative work and production oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Shanghai emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and access to resources for a role that bridges creative execution with operational realities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and resumes, focusing on minimum requirements and relevant experience.
• Portfolio Submission: Candidates will likely be asked to submit a digital portfolio showcasing relevant packaging design work.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to assess design skills, understanding of brand guidelines, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.
• Skills Assessment/Case Study: A practical exercise, potentially involving a design challenge or a review of a past project, to evaluate technical proficiency (Adobe Suite) and approach to packaging design.
• Cross-functional Team Interviews: Interactions with key stakeholders from Brand Management, Product Development, or QA to gauge collaboration skills and understanding of their needs.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant packaging design projects. Prioritize those that showcase your ability to work with brand guidelines, manage revisions, and deliver production-ready artwork.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges faced, your design process and solutions, and the final outcome (e.g., successful launch, improved brand perception). Quantify results where possible (e.g., "achieved 98% print accuracy").
• Highlight Operations: Emphasize your understanding of the production process, your collaboration with vendors, and how you ensured compliance and on-time delivery.
• Showcase Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop through the quality and complexity of your work.
• Tailor to McKesson: If possible, subtly tailor your presentation to reflect McKesson's industry (healthcare/pharma) and their known brands, showing you've done your research.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If a design challenge is given, take time to fully understand the objectives, target audience, and any constraints provided.
• Process Over Perfection: Focus on demonstrating a sound design process, clear rationale for your decisions, and effective communication of your ideas, rather than solely on a polished final design within a limited timeframe.
• Time Management: Allocate your time wisely across research, concepting, execution, and presentation.
• Articulate Your Rationale: Be prepared to explain why you made specific design choices, linking them back to the brief, brand guidelines, and target audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process will heavily scrutinize both creative talent and the candidate's ability to operate within a structured, collaborative, and production-oriented environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential, with a strong emphasis on:
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and detailed packaging artwork.
  • InDesign: For layout, text-heavy packaging labels, and creating print-ready files.
  • Photoshop: For image editing, retouching, and creating visual mockups.
• Mac Operating Systems: The primary platform for design work.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Intermediate proficiency required for tracking project statuses, managing data, and basic reporting.
• Microsoft PowerPoint: For internal presentations, project updates, and potentially presenting design concepts.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how packaging design integrates with product management systems and supply chain workflows is beneficial.
• Familiarity with digital asset management (DAM) systems for archiving and retrieving brand assets would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite on a Mac is non-negotiable for this role, reflecting the core technical requirements for packaging design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Brand Integrity: A deep commitment to upholding and enhancing the visual identity and reputation of McKesson's private label brands.
• Excellence in Execution: Striving for high-quality, error-free design and production that meets stringent standards.
• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships with internal teams and external vendors to achieve shared goals.
• Efficiency & Timeliness: A focus on meeting deadlines and optimizing workflows to ensure products reach the market on schedule.
• Compliance & Accuracy: Ensuring all designs adhere to regulatory requirements and internal quality standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires active participation in cross-functional teams, contributing design expertise while understanding and accommodating the needs of product development, sourcing, and QA.
• Feedback-Oriented: An open approach to receiving and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders to refine designs and ensure alignment.
• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing project updates, potential issues, and seeking input to prevent delays and ensure smooth project progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes professional rigor, attention to detail, and a team-oriented approach to achieving business objectives within the regulated healthcare industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Format Diversity: Adapting a core brand identity across a wide array of packaging types and sizes while maintaining visual harmony and impact.
• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Staying current with and accurately implementing complex and evolving state and federal regulations for product labeling.
• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Inputs: Effectively synthesizing feedback and potentially conflicting requirements from various internal departments and external partners.
• Fast-Paced Production Cycles: Working under pressure to meet tight deadlines for product launches and updates in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Healthcare Packaging Expertise: Gain specialized knowledge in the unique design and regulatory considerations for pharmaceutical, medical device, and consumer healthcare products.
• Project Management Skills: Develop enhanced skills in managing complex projects with multiple dependencies and stakeholders.
• Cross-functional Business Acumen: Increase understanding of product development, supply chain logistics, and quality assurance processes within a large corporation.
• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to learn new design software features, 3D rendering for packaging mockups, or advanced print production techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities to develop specialized skills in a complex industry, providing a solid foundation for future career growth in design, marketing, or operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a packaging design from initial concept to final production, including how you manage approvals and revisions." (Focus on workflow, communication, and problem-solving.)
• "How do you ensure brand style guide consistency across multiple product lines and packaging formats?" (Highlight your understanding of brand architecture and execution.)
• "Walk us through a challenging packaging project you managed. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a STAR method response focusing on your operational approach.)
• "How do you stay updated on packaging design trends and regulatory changes relevant to the healthcare or CPG industries?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about McKesson and our private label brands?" (Research McKesson's mission, values, and private label strategy.)
• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design stakeholders (e.g., Product Development, QA)?" (Emphasize clear communication, understanding their needs, and finding solutions.)
• "Describe a time you received critical feedback on your design. How did you handle it, and what did you learn?" (Demonstrate resilience and a growth mindset.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by brand or project type. Start with a brief overview, then dive into 2-3 key case studies.
• Narrative: For each case study, clearly state the problem, your solution (design process), and the results. Use visuals effectively, but supplement with concise explanations.
• Highlight Operations: Explicitly mention your role in managing approvals, working with vendors, and ensuring production readiness.
• Quantify: If possible, include metrics related to the project's success (e.g., successful launch, adherence to budget/timeline).
• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your technical process, software usage, and decision-making rationale for specific design elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for questions that probe your operational process, stakeholder management, and resilience will be key to demonstrating your suitability for this role beyond just creative talent.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sr. Associate Graphic Designer position:

• Visit the McKesson careers portal at careers.mckesson.com and search for the job title or requisition number (if available).
• Submit your resume, ensuring it clearly highlights your 2+ years of packaging design experience and proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud on Mac OS.
• Prepare a digital portfolio that showcases your best packaging design work. Ensure it includes examples of projects managed from concept through production, demonstrating adherence to brand guidelines and regulatory awareness.
• Be ready to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on your process, collaboration, and problem-solving skills during the interview stages.
• Research McKesson's company mission, values, and its private label brands to articulate your interest and cultural fit 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.

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