Visual Designer
π Job Overview
Job Title: Visual Designer
Company: SAMY
Location: Madrid, Spain
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Creative & Media / Marketing / Art & Design
Date Posted: February 04, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid
π Role Summary
- Drive visual consistency and brand identity across diverse digital campaigns and social media platforms.
- Develop compelling graphics and presentation materials that align with brand aesthetics and strategic messaging objectives.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including strategists, copywriters, and brand managers, to conceptualize and execute innovative creative ideas.
- Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery within a fast-paced, deadline-driven agency environment.
- Leverage expertise in design software and emerging technologies to create fresh, engaging, and industry-leading content.
π Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Visual Designer within a global social-first agency, implying a strong emphasis on digital and social media content creation. The "social-first" nature of SAMY suggests that understanding platform-specific content nuances (e.g., TikTok, Instagram, YouTube) is critical. The hybrid work model indicates a need for candidates comfortable with both remote and in-office collaboration, requiring strong self-management and communication skills.
π Primary Responsibilities
- Ensure unwavering typographic, layout, and visual identity consistency across all client projects and internal brand initiatives.
- Design and produce high-impact visuals specifically tailored for digital campaigns, social media feeds, and paid media placements.
- Create impactful graphics and presentation decks that effectively communicate brand messaging and adhere to established brand guidelines.
- Develop and refine visual concepts in close collaboration with copywriters, creative strategists, and account teams to meet client objectives.
- Stay abreast of the latest social media trends, emerging design technologies, and AI tools to continuously innovate and elevate content quality.
- Experiment with advanced editing techniques, dynamic transitions, and compelling visual effects to maintain content freshness and audience engagement.
- Proactively manage project timelines, deliverables, and internal feedback loops to ensure efficient project execution and client satisfaction.
- Maintain meticulous attention to detail, robust organizational practices, and stringent quality control throughout the design process.
- Utilize presentation design tools such as Google Slides, PowerPoint, or Canva to produce polished and effective client-facing materials.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core graphic design, brand stewardship, and social media content specialization. Emphasis on "social media-first content creation" and specific platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube indicates a need for practical experience in formats optimized for these channels. The inclusion of presentation design tools suggests the role may also involve internal or client-facing presentations.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: While a specific degree isn't mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Digital Media, or a related field is highly recommended and often preferred for understanding foundational design principles. Experience: A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in graphic and visual design, with a strong preference for agency experience to understand fast-paced client demands and diverse brand portfolios.
Required Skills:
- Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in graphic and visual design.
- Demonstrated proficiency in Figma for collaborative design workflows and interface design.
- Expert-level command of the Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop and Illustrator, for asset creation and manipulation.
- Deep understanding of social media-first content creation principles and best practices for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
- Solid grasp of storytelling principles, pacing, and dynamic editing techniques to create engaging visual narratives.
- Proven ability to work effectively with brand identity systems, typography, and layout principles to ensure visual coherence.
- Experience in managing multiple design projects concurrently, meeting stringent deadlines in a fast-paced agency setting.
- Strong organizational skills and a keen eye for detail to maintain high-quality output.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience utilizing AI tools for content ideation, enhancement, and asset generation.
- Practical experience in video editing using software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects.
- Familiarity with 3D animation, advanced motion graphics, or the creation of AR filters for immersive experiences.
- Previous background or exposure to advertising, digital marketing strategies, or influencer campaign execution.
π Enhancement Note: The "Must-Have" skills clearly outline the core technical proficiencies required, with Figma and Adobe Creative Suite being paramount. The emphasis on social media platforms and storytelling suggests the need for practical application beyond static graphics. Preferred skills indicate areas where additional expertise would be highly valuable, particularly in video and emerging digital media.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Showcase a diverse range of visual design projects, with a significant portion dedicated to social media content (e.g., campaign graphics, short-form video assets, interactive story elements).
- Include case studies demonstrating your ability to translate brand guidelines and marketing objectives into compelling visual assets.
- Highlight projects that exemplify strong typography, layout, and overall brand identity consistency.
- Demonstrate examples of presentation design, showcasing proficiency in tools like Google Slides or PowerPoint, if applicable to your experience.
Process Documentation:
- For each portfolio piece, briefly outline your design process, from initial brief and concept development to final execution and delivery.
- Detail how you approached understanding client brand guidelines and ensuring visual cohesion across different platforms.
- Explain any specific techniques or tools used to achieve dynamic visuals, effective storytelling, or optimize content for social media engagement.
π Enhancement Note: For a visual design role, a strong portfolio is non-negotiable. The emphasis should be on showcasing practical application of required skills, particularly in the social media context. Explaining the "how" and "why" behind design choices, along with demonstrating adherence to brand standards, will be key.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Visual Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Madrid, Spain, the estimated annual salary range is β¬30,000 - β¬45,000. This range accounts for the cost of living in Madrid, the experience level required, and the specialized skills in demand within the digital agency sector.
Benefits:
- Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement within a leading digital agency, with potential for specialization or leadership roles.
- Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility to balance remote work with in-office collaboration, promoting work-life integration.
- Flexible Office Days: Ability to choose office days, supporting personal scheduling and productivity preferences.
- Competitive Salary: Remuneration package benchmarked against industry standards for the role and location.
- Benefits Package: Comprehensive benefits typically including health insurance, paid time off, and potential for performance-based bonuses or professional development allowances.
Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, reflecting a full-time commitment typical in the agency environment. The hybrid model may offer some flexibility in daily scheduling, aligning with project needs and team collaboration requirements.
π Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general knowledge of the Spanish job market for design roles and the specified experience level. The listed benefits are directly extracted from the job description, highlighting the agency's commitment to employee well-being and professional development.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Digital Marketing & Advertising, specifically a "social first" agency. This means SAMY specializes in creating and executing media strategies that prioritize social platforms for maximum audience connection and business impact. Company Size: 900+ people across 20 offices and 55 markets. This indicates a large, globally distributed organization with a significant presence and resources. Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, the description implies a mature and established agency with a global footprint and a substantial client roster.
Team Structure:
- The Visual Designer will likely be part of a larger creative department, potentially reporting to a Creative Director or Design Lead.
- Collaboration is expected with copywriters, strategists, social media managers, account managers, and other designers.
- The global nature of the agency suggests opportunities for cross-office collaboration and exposure to diverse markets and client teams.
Methodology:
- Data-Driven Creativity: SAMY emphasizes activating "end-to-end media strategies" and connecting with audiences effectively, suggesting a blend of creative execution informed by data and analytics.
- Social-First Approach: All creative output is viewed through the lens of social media platforms, prioritizing engagement, relevancy, and platform-specific best practices.
- Integrated Campaigns: The agency focuses on integrated media strategies, meaning designers will likely contribute to holistic campaign efforts that span multiple channels.
- Agile & Collaborative: Working in a fast-paced agency environment with tight deadlines necessitates agile workflows and strong team collaboration.
Company Website: https://samy.com/
π Enhancement Note: The company description paints a picture of a dynamic, global, and forward-thinking agency. The "social first" identity is central, meaning designers must be attuned to the nuances of social media content. The size and scope suggest ample opportunities for diverse project exposure and professional networking.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level (2-5 years experience), focusing on execution and contribution within the creative department. It requires independent work on assigned projects while also being a collaborative team member. Reporting Structure: The Visual Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Design Lead, or potentially a Senior Visual Designer. They will collaborate extensively with other creative roles (copywriters, strategists) and client-facing teams (account managers). Operations Impact: As a Visual Designer, the primary impact is on the aesthetic quality, brand consistency, and engagement potential of client campaigns. This directly influences brand perception, audience connection, and ultimately, the effectiveness of marketing efforts.
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, video editing, 3D animation, or AI-driven design tools.
- Leadership: Progress to a Senior Visual Designer role, mentoring junior designers, leading smaller projects, and contributing more significantly to creative strategy.
- Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain exposure to broader marketing and advertising strategies, client management, and campaign planning through cross-functional collaboration.
- Global Exposure: Work on campaigns for international clients, offering a broader perspective on global markets and diverse creative approaches.
π Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a Visual Designer in an agency like SAMY typically involves deepening creative skills, potentially moving into specialized areas, or progressing into a leadership role where strategic input and team management become more prominent.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid work model, indicating a mix of remote work and in-office presence. The office environment is likely designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and team interaction. Office Location(s): Calle Ulises 97, CP 28039, Madrid, Spain. This is a specific physical location for employees choosing to work from the office.
Workspace Context:
- Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a space for brainstorming sessions, team meetings, client presentations, and fostering a sense of community among colleagues.
- Creative Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma) and potentially advanced hardware or specialized equipment for creative work.
- Team Interaction: The hybrid model means opportunities for in-person collaboration, informal knowledge sharing, and building rapport with colleagues on designated office days.
Work Schedule: Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. The hybrid model allows for some flexibility in daily start/end times, but core working hours will likely be established for team collaboration and responsiveness.
π Enhancement Note: The hybrid aspect is a key feature, requiring candidates to be comfortable with both independent remote work and collaborative in-office sessions. The office location is specific, suggesting it's a primary hub for Spanish operations.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: Likely a review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative output.
- Creative Assessment/Challenge: A design exercise or case study simulating a real client brief to evaluate your design thinking, problem-solving skills, and execution within a given timeframe. This might involve creating social media assets or a presentation deck.
- Team/Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion about your experience, skills, approach to design, and cultural fit with the SAMY team. This is where you'll discuss your portfolio in detail.
- Final Interview (Potentially): May involve meeting with senior leadership or a broader creative team for final assessment.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Curate Strategically: Showcase your strongest and most relevant work, particularly social media content and branding projects. Aim for quality over quantity.
- Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, your design process, the challenges faced, and the impact of your work (if measurable). Use concise, impactful descriptions.
- Highlight Social-First: Explicitly demonstrate your understanding of platform-specific design (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube) and how you create engaging content for these channels.
- Showcase Software Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio visually represents your skills in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite. If you have AI or video editing experience, feature those projects prominently.
- Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether it's a PDF, personal website, or platform like Behance.
Challenge Preparation:
- Understand the Brief: Carefully read and dissect any design challenge provided. Identify key objectives, target audience, and constraints.
- Time Management: Allocate your time effectively across concept development, execution, and review.
- Brand Alignment: If a brand is provided, ensure your design adheres strictly to its identity, tone, and messaging.
- Platform Nuances: If the challenge involves social media, consider the specific platform's best practices for aspect ratios, text overlay, and engagement tactics.
- Clear Rationale: Be prepared to articulate the strategic thinking behind your design choices.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the portfolio, so candidates should prepare to discuss their work in detail. Design challenges are common in creative roles to assess practical skills and problem-solving abilities under pressure.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Figma: Essential for collaborative design, prototyping, and UI/UX elements. Expect to use it for team projects and potentially client presentations.
- Adobe Creative Suite:
- Photoshop: For image manipulation, digital asset creation, and complex compositing.
- Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and scalable illustrations.
- Google Slides / PowerPoint / Canva: For creating client-facing presentations, internal reports, and pitch decks.
Analytics & Reporting: While not a primary design tool, understanding how design impacts metrics is crucial. Familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, social media native analytics) to understand content performance would be beneficial. CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the Visual Designer role, but awareness of how creative assets are deployed through marketing automation or CRM campaigns could provide valuable context.
π Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The inclusion of presentation tools indicates a need for strong visual communication skills beyond just digital assets. Awareness of how design impacts performance metrics is a plus.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Bold, Human, Transformative: These core values suggest an agency that encourages ambitious ideas, values its people, and aims for significant impact. For a designer, this means being adventurous in creative concepts, collaborative in interactions, and focused on driving meaningful change for clients.
- Adventurous & Defying Status Quo: SAMY prides itself on pushing boundaries and reshaping the industry. Designers are expected to bring innovative ideas and challenge conventional approaches.
- Social-First & Relevancy: A core operational value is making brands matter in the "social universe." Designers must prioritize creating content that is relevant, engaging, and effective on social platforms.
- Data-Informed Creativity: While creative, the agency also emphasizes "activating end-to-end media strategies" and connecting "effectively," implying that creative decisions are grounded in understanding audience behavior and campaign goals.
Collaboration Style:
- Cross-functional Integration: Designers work closely with strategists, copywriters, and account teams, requiring strong communication and the ability to translate different perspectives into cohesive visual outputs.
- Dynamic & Fast-Paced: The agency environment demands agility, quick adaptation to feedback, and efficient collaboration to meet tight deadlines.
- Global Teamwork: With 20 offices and 55 markets, collaboration may extend across different regions, necessitating clear communication protocols and cultural awareness.
π Enhancement Note: The agency's core valuesβBold, Human, Transformativeβshould guide how a designer approaches their work and interactions. The emphasis on "social universe" and "relevancy" highlights the specific context of design work at SAMY.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing Creative Ambition with Client Constraints: Navigating client feedback, brand guidelines, and budget limitations while pushing creative boundaries.
- Keeping Pace with Rapidly Evolving Social Media Trends: Continuously adapting design strategies and aesthetics to stay relevant on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which change quickly.
- Managing Multiple High-Profile Projects Simultaneously: Effectively prioritizing workload and maintaining high-quality output across various client accounts in a demanding agency environment.
- Integrating Emerging Technologies: Staying current with and effectively utilizing new tools like AI for design, or exploring advanced areas like 3D animation and AR filters.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in motion graphics, video editing, 3D, or AI tools through internal training, external courses, or on-the-job application.
- Industry Exposure: Work on campaigns for major global brands, gaining experience with diverse industries and market challenges.
- Mentorship & Career Pathing: Potential for guidance from senior creative leaders and structured opportunities for career progression within the agency.
- Global Network: Connect with designers and creative professionals across SAMY's international offices, fostering a broader understanding of global design trends and best practices.
π Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a creative role in a global agency, emphasizing the need for adaptability, strong project management, and continuous learning. Growth opportunities are tied to skill enhancement and strategic contribution.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- "Describe a time you had to balance a client's brand guidelines with your creative vision. How did you approach it?" (Assesses negotiation skills, brand adherence, and creative problem-solving).
- "How do you ensure your designs are optimized for specific social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram?" (Tests understanding of platform-specific content creation and engagement tactics).
- "Walk us through your process for developing a visual concept for a new digital campaign." (Evaluates design thinking, ideation, and workflow).
- "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and emerging technologies, such as AI tools in design?" (Assesses proactivity and commitment to continuous learning).
Company & Culture Questions:
- "What attracts you to SAMY's 'social-first' approach?" (Gauges understanding of the agency's core philosophy).
- "How do you embody SAMY's values of Bold, Human, and Transformative in your design work?" (Assesses cultural fit and alignment with company ethos).
- "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment. How do you ensure effective collaboration with your team?" (Evaluates adaptability to work arrangements and communication skills).
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Focus on Social Impact: For each relevant piece, highlight how your design contributed to engagement, brand awareness, or campaign objectives on social media.
- Showcase Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your use of Figma and Adobe Creative Suite, and how these tools facilitated your design process and final output.
- Articulate Your Process: Clearly explain your step-by-step approach for key projects, from initial brief to final delivery, emphasizing problem-solving and decision-making.
- Quantify Results (If Possible): If you have any data or metrics on the performance of your designs (e.g., engagement rates, click-throughs), be prepared to share them.
π Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical design skills but also an understanding of SAMY's specific agency model (social-first), its core values, and the practicalities of working in a hybrid, global environment.
π Application Steps
To apply for this Visual Designer position:
- Submit your application through the provided link on SAMY's careers page.
- Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight your strongest social media design work, demonstrating proficiency in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite. Include examples of how your designs have driven engagement or met specific campaign objectives.
- Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your years of experience, specific software proficiencies (Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, presentation tools), and any relevant agency or social media content creation experience. Use keywords from the job description.
- Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your portfolio pieces in detail, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and understanding of social media best practices. Prepare to answer questions about your creative approach and how you align with SAMY's values.
- Company Research: Thoroughly research SAMY's website, client work, and social media presence to understand their "social-first" philosophy, brand aesthetic, and recent campaigns. This will help you articulate your interest and cultural fit.
β οΈ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates must have at least 2 years of experience in graphic and visual design, with proficiency in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite. A strong understanding of social media-first content creation and storytelling techniques is also required.