Lead Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Graphic Designer

Company: Wells Fargo & Company

Location: Shoreview, MN, United States | Charlotte, NC, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 5+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive end-to-end creative projects, from concept ideation to final asset delivery, for internal and external communications.

• Produce compelling video content and polished, on-brand graphic design to support campaigns, internal storytelling, and organizational initiatives.

• Champion brand consistency, accessibility, and quality across all creative deliverables, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and legal/compliance standards.

• Collaborate closely with communication consultants and stakeholders to translate strategic business goals into impactful visual solutions that enhance the employee experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a proactive, self-starter with strong independent project management capabilities. The emphasis on "full video workflow" and "end-to-end creative process" indicates a need for a highly versatile designer capable of handling multiple stages of production and design autonomously. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a blend of on-site collaboration and independent remote work.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead concept development, storyboarding, and visual system design for multi-channel campaigns and brand initiatives.

• Produce comprehensive video content, encompassing scripting, production planning, directing on set, editing, motion graphics, color grading, audio mixing, and final delivery.

• Design a wide range of graphic assets, including campaign visuals, presentation systems, event collateral, infographics, one-pagers, landing page hero assets, email templates, and social media graphics.

• Uphold and evolve brand guidelines, component libraries, and design tokens, ensuring ADA compliance for color, typography, and overall visual accessibility.

• Oversee print production workflows, manage promotional merchandise projects, and coordinate with vendors to ensure accurate file preparation, proofing, and timely delivery.

• Scope, estimate, and sequence work, effectively managing timelines and resources for multiple concurrent projects.

• Present creative rationale and strategies to partners and leadership, incorporating feedback while maintaining the integrity of the creative vision.

• Maintain organized project files, digital assets, and ensure compliance with legal and brand governance standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level role with significant ownership. The expectation to "Oversee print production workflows and manage promotional merchandise projects" suggests a need for experience beyond digital design, encompassing physical product lifecycle management. The requirement to "navigate brand governance and regulated environments" points to a need for meticulous attention to detail and understanding of corporate compliance in the financial services sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific degree is mandated, with experience being the primary determinant. However, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Communications, or a related field is often preferred for roles of this caliber.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience in graphic design, with a strong emphasis on video production and motion graphics. Equivalent experience through training, military service, or other work experience will be considered.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects.

• Proven experience in leading art direction from strategy and concept through execution and delivery.

• Demonstrated mastery of the full video production lifecycle: scriptwriting, shot lists, on-set production (camera, lighting, audio), editing, color grading, motion graphics, and post-production workflows.

• Strong portfolio showcasing expertise in brand systems, campaign work, motion design, and produced video content.

• Fluency in typography, layout, composition, color theory, information hierarchy, and accessibility best practices (e.g., WCAG, ADA compliance).

• Excellent collaboration, presentation, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to simplify complex ideas visually.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience leading or mentoring junior designers and motion artists, with comfort in running creative reviews.

• Familiarity with camera systems (mirrorless/DSLR/cine), lighting setups (three-point, practicals), audio equipment (lav/shotgun mics), and basic grip techniques.

• Knowledge of frame rates, codecs, proxies, LUTs, and delivery standards across various platforms (web, social, event, broadcast).

• Working knowledge of Adobe Media Encoder and Audition for finishing workflows.

• Comfort navigating brand governance, regulated environments, legal review processes, and disclosure requirements.

• Experience with AI-assisted creative tools (e.g., content-aware fill, rotoscoping aids, transcript-based editing) used responsibly and ethically.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed list of preferred skills, particularly those related to video production and AI tools, suggests the company is looking for a candidate who is not only technically proficient but also forward-thinking and adaptable to evolving creative technologies. The emphasis on "brand governance and regulated environments" is critical for a candidate applying to a financial institution like Wells Fargo.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a strong range of work that demonstrates expertise in video production (from concept to final delivery), motion graphics, and on-brand graphic design.

• Include direct links to recent work within your resume for easy access by the hiring team.

• The portfolio should highlight your ability to develop and execute visual systems, manage multi-channel campaigns, and create engaging internal communications.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of your approach to the full video workflow, including scripting, storyboarding, production planning, on-set execution, and post-production.

• Provide evidence of your ability to maintain organized project files, manage digital assets, and ensure proper versioning and metadata.

• Illustrate your process for extending and evolving brand guidelines, ensuring accessibility and consistency across all touchpoints.

• Detail your experience with print production workflows, including file preparation, vendor coordination, and quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio and the detailed breakdown of what it should contain indicate this is a critical component of the application process. Candidates should curate their portfolios to specifically address the video production, motion graphics, and graphic design elements mentioned, along with examples of brand consistency and accessibility.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $87,000 - $154,000 per year. This range is reflective of the base pay and may vary based on demonstrated prior performance, skills, experience, and work location. Employees may also be eligible for incentive opportunities.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)

• 401(k) Plan with company match/contributions

• Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

• Disability Benefits (Short-term and Long-term)

• Life Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, and Accident Insurance

• Parental Leave and Critical Caregiving Leave

• Employee Discounts and Savings programs

• Commuter Benefits

• Tuition Reimbursement and Scholarships for dependent children

• Adoption Reimbursement

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, with the expectation of flexibility to meet project deadlines and business needs. This role is designated as hybrid, requiring a portion of work to be performed on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a Lead Graphic Designer role with significant video production and art direction responsibilities in a major financial institution. The extensive list of benefits reflects Wells Fargo's commitment to employee well-being and professional development, which can be a significant factor for candidates evaluating total compensation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Banking). Wells Fargo operates within a highly regulated industry that demands a strong focus on compliance, risk management, and customer trust. This environment necessitates meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict brand guidelines, and a commitment to ethical practices.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the United States by assets). This implies a structured organizational hierarchy, robust internal processes, and opportunities for diverse career paths.

Founded: 1852. With a long history, Wells Fargo has established a deep-rooted corporate culture that values stability, integrity, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader Marketing, Communications, or Creative Services department.

• They will report to a Creative Director, Senior Manager, or Head of Communications, with potential for direct reports or mentorship of junior designers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Creative strategies and design choices are expected to be informed by data, campaign performance metrics, and an understanding of target audience engagement.

• Agile Project Management: Projects are likely managed using agile or hybrid methodologies to ensure flexibility, rapid iteration, and efficient delivery within established timelines.

• Brand Governance & Compliance: A core methodology involves strict adherence to brand guidelines, legal reviews, and compliance requirements specific to the financial services sector.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The financial services industry context is crucial. Candidates should understand the implications of working in a regulated environment, where brand consistency and risk mitigation are paramount. The company's long history suggests a culture that values tradition and stability, but also one that is adapting to modern creative demands.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Lead, indicating a senior contributor or potential team lead. Responsibilities include art direction, end-to-end project ownership, and potentially mentoring, signifying a level of autonomy and influence beyond a standard designer role.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director or a senior manager within the marketing or communications function. They may also have opportunities to lead or mentor junior designers or motion artists, depending on the team structure.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts brand perception, employee engagement, and the effectiveness of internal and external communications. High-quality creative assets are essential for conveying Wells Fargo's brand message, supporting marketing campaigns, and fostering a positive employee experience, ultimately contributing to business objectives and customer trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into a Creative Director, Art Director, or Management role, overseeing larger creative teams and strategic initiatives.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as advanced video production, motion graphics, or brand system development.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunity to work on diverse projects across different business units within Wells Fargo, broadening industry knowledge and creative scope.

• Continuous Learning: Access to company-sponsored training, workshops, and potentially tuition reimbursement for further education or certifications in design and media production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" title signifies a stepping stone towards management or a highly specialized senior individual contributor path. Candidates should assess their career goals against these potential growth trajectories, considering the extensive resources available at a large institution like Wells Fargo for professional development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role requires a blend of on-site presence in Shoreview, MN, or Charlotte, NC, and remote work. This suggests a collaborative office environment designed for team interaction, brainstorming, and in-person meetings, complemented by the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Shoreview Operations Center, MN; Charlotte, NC. These are major operational hubs for Wells Fargo, offering a professional corporate setting with standard office amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are likely equipped with meeting rooms, brainstorming areas, and shared workspaces to facilitate team collaboration and project reviews.

• Technology Access: Employees will have access to standard office technology, robust IT support, and potentially specialized creative hardware and software setups required for video editing and graphic design.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model encourages regular in-person interaction with colleagues, fostering a strong team dynamic and facilitating the exchange of creative ideas and feedback.

Work Schedule: The role follows a standard 40-hour work week. While hybrid, the expectation is to be present in the office for a portion of the week, likely to align with team collaboration needs and project milestones. Flexibility may be required to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key consideration. Candidates should be comfortable with a mix of in-office and remote work and understand the expectations for on-site days, which are crucial for a collaborative creative role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will likely conduct an initial call to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Review: A critical stage where candidates present their portfolio, demonstrating their video production, motion graphics, and graphic design skills. Be prepared to walk through specific projects, explaining your role, process, and the impact of your work.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A deeper dive into your experience, technical skills, art direction capabilities, and problem-solving approaches, often with scenario-based questions.

• Team/Peer Interviews: Discussions with potential colleagues or other creative leads to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and fit within the creative team.

• Final Interview: May involve a senior leader or stakeholder to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit within the organization's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best represent the requirements: end-to-end video production, strong motion graphics, and impactful on-brand graphic design.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the creative process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the measurable results or impact.

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase examples where you led concepts, directed projects, or mentored others.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss specific software, techniques, and workflows used.

• Emphasize Brand & Compliance: For Wells Fargo, highlight projects that demonstrate adherence to brand guidelines, accessibility standards, and experience in regulated environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect potential creative challenges or case studies that assess your ability to quickly conceptualize and design solutions based on a given brief.

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach a project from scratch, considering strategy, target audience, and brand consistency.

• Practice articulating your creative rationale clearly and concisely, defending your design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should invest significant time in preparing a polished and targeted portfolio that directly addresses the job description's requirements, especially the video production and motion graphics aspects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects (Expert proficiency required).

• Video Editing Software: Premiere Pro, potentially Final Cut Pro or DaVinci Resolve (though Premiere Pro is specified).

• Motion Graphics Software: After Effects.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: Experience with DAM platforms for organizing, storing, and retrieving creative assets.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) and reporting tools to understand campaign performance and inform creative decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how creative assets integrate with marketing automation platforms and CRM systems (like Salesforce) can be beneficial for campaign execution.

• Experience with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Jira, Workfront) for managing workflows and timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, particularly Premiere Pro and After Effects, is non-negotiable. Experience with DAM systems and project management tools will streamline workflow and demonstrate organizational capabilities crucial for a Lead role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Trust: Paramount in the financial services industry; all creative work must uphold these values.

• Customer Focus: Designs and communications should aim to serve and engage customers and employees effectively.

• Excellence and Innovation: Striving for high-quality creative output while embracing new tools and techniques (like AI-assisted design).

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals.

• Risk Management and Compliance: A foundational value, ensuring all creative outputs adhere to stringent regulatory and brand guidelines.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with communication consultants, marketers, legal teams, and other stakeholders, requiring strong communication and adaptability.

• Feedback and Iteration: A culture of constructive feedback is essential for refining creative work and ensuring alignment with objectives.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly updating stakeholders on project progress, potential challenges, and creative direction is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Wells Fargo's core values, particularly integrity and compliance, is vital. Candidates should demonstrate how their creative approach aligns with these principles, showing an ability to balance creativity with corporate responsibility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Navigating the strict regulatory environment of financial services while producing innovative and engaging creative content.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Effectively communicating and aligning diverse stakeholder expectations and feedback on creative projects.

• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Staying current with new creative tools, including AI-assisted design, and integrating them responsibly into workflows.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all creative output adheres to established brand guidelines across a vast organization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Creative Software Training: Access to courses and workshops to deepen expertise in Adobe Suite, motion graphics, and video production.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend design and media production conferences to stay abreast of trends and network.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor junior team members, fostering leadership skills.

• Cross-Departmental Projects: Gaining exposure to different areas of the business to broaden understanding and application of design skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the complex yet rewarding nature of working in a large, regulated corporation. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement and skill enhancement for ambitious creative professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a visual campaign from initial brief to final delivery, focusing on how you ensure brand consistency and stakeholder alignment."

• "Walk us through a complex video production project you led. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?"

• "How do you approach incorporating new technologies, such as AI-assisted creative tools, into your workflow while ensuring ethical use and quality?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Wells Fargo's brand and how would your creative approach support our values of integrity and customer focus?"

• "How do you ensure accessibility (ADA compliance) in your design and video work?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Video Production, Motion Graphics, Campaign Design) or by skill.

• Narrative: For each piece, clearly state the client/internal business unit, the objective, your specific role and contributions, the process, the tools used, and the outcome/impact.

• Highlight Video: Dedicate a significant portion to your video production work, showcasing your ability to tell a story visually from start to finish.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your work (e.g., engagement rates, views, campaign performance).

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, technical challenges, and collaborative experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their creative process with strong examples, demonstrating not only technical skill but also strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of corporate communication needs within a financial institution.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Wells Fargo Careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature your strongest work in video production, motion graphics, and on-brand graphic design. Ensure direct links are accessible within your resume.

• Resume Optimization: Highlight your 5+ years of experience, explicitly mentioning proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere Pro, After Effects) and your experience with end-to-end video workflows and art direction. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your creative process, leadership experience, and how you handle collaboration and feedback, especially within a regulated environment. Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Wells Fargo's brand, mission, values, and any recent marketing campaigns or communications. Understand the importance of integrity and compliance in the financial services sector.

⚠️ 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.