Managing Consultant, Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Managing Consultant, Graphic Designer

Company: ERM

Location: New Delhi, India; Bengaluru, India

Job Type: Full time

Category: Marketing & Communications Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-09-16T00:00:00

Experience Level: 8-10 years professional experience, with 2+ years in management

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead creative development and visual execution of sustainability communications for global clients, translating complex ESG topics into impactful visual experiences.

• Drive the quality and consistency of client deliverables across print, digital, branding, reporting, web, and stakeholder engagement channels.

• Serve as a strategic creative advisor, building trusted relationships with internal teams and external clients.

• Manage, mentor, and develop a small team of graphic designers, fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment.

• Integrate emerging design trends, digital best practices, and AI-enabled approaches into creative processes and client solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within ERM's Marketing & Communications Agency (MCA), a specialized internal agency supporting ERM's global sustainability consultancy. The role requires a blend of strong design leadership, client-facing consulting skills, and people management, operating within a unique "Consulting Delivery Hub" model for scalable global support. The "Operations" aspect is centered around the efficient and high-quality delivery of creative assets and communication strategies that support ERM's core sustainability consulting business.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide art direction to graphic designers on client sustainability communications, including reports, websites, campaigns, identity systems, digital dashboards, informational graphics, video, animation, and stakeholder engagement materials.

• Consult with client teams and directly with clients on creative, engaging ways to leverage communications in the digital space, acting as a trusted visual strategy advisor.

• Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships internally with consultants and externally with clients, ensuring seamless project collaboration.

• Research and report on design trends to the design team and ERM’s Visual Communication Design technical community, driving innovation and best practices.

• Serve as a People Leader for a small team of one to two graphic designers, managing tasks, mentoring, conducting performance reviews, and setting career goals to foster professional growth.

• Lead recruiting and onboarding efforts for new designers, collaborating with ERM recruiters, reviewing portfolios, conducting interviews, and ensuring effective integration.

• Present design work, articulate strategic rationale, answer questions, and provide expert insight on client calls and internal reviews.

• Aid the design team in setting up and managing client design project schedules, ensuring timely and efficient delivery.

• Oversee and maintain existing design rules, processes, and brand standards with the design team to ensure consistency and quality.

• Work with Head of Design and EMEA Lead in design sales and promotion by identifying opportunities, developing estimates, reviewing and contributing to proposals, and maintaining the quality of ERM MCA’s design portfolio and business development materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on creative execution and operational management. The role requires not only strong design leadership but also the ability to manage projects, people, and contribute to business development, acting as a bridge between creative talent and client needs within a consulting framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).

Experience:

• 8-10 years of professional graphic design experience, with a strong preference for agency-side experience.

• Minimum of two years of experience in a team leadership or management capacity, including coaching, mentoring, and performance management. Required Skills:

• Exceptional portfolio showcasing a breadth of work in print, interactive design, and branding systems.

• Proven expertise in multi-page document and editorial layout design (e.g., annual/sustainability reports, books, brochures, magazines).

• Superior understanding of typography, composition, and page layout principles.

• Extreme attention to detail and a proven commitment to quality control, including rigorous file hygiene and version management.

• Strong client communication and presentation skills, with the ability to lead design-focused discussions and articulate strategic rationale.

• Ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible visuals for a broad audience of internal and external stakeholders.

• Strong interpersonal, stakeholder management, and general communication skills.

• Proficiency in Mac OS, Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), and Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, Excel).

• Solid understanding of UX/UI design principles for digital experiences.

• Foundational knowledge of CSS and HTML for web-based design considerations.

• Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively within a team, and perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Highly creative mindset with the ability to balance innovation with client brand standards and project requirements.

• Willingness to work extended hours when necessary to meet project deadlines.

• Openness to feedback, input, and collaboration with colleagues and fellow creatives.

• Demonstrated ability to handle conflict and manage difficult conversations constructively, both internally and externally.

• Commitment to integrating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B) principles into leadership and team culture. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of environmental, social, or economic aspects of sustainability and ESG frameworks.

• Experience in the consulting industry, marketing, or advertising, specifically providing services to large corporate clients.

• Familiarity with AI integration into business tasks and creative design processes.

• Experience in estimating design and marketing project budgets.

• Understanding of digital accessibility standards for websites and PDFs (WCAG compliance).

• Experience with Webflow for website design and management.

• Proficiency in video and animation production workflows.

• Illustration talent and capabilities.

• Advanced photo retouching skills.

• Experience with print management and professional printing file preparation.

• Basic understanding of 3D rendering concepts.

• Social media content creation experience for major platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of advanced design craft, strategic thinking, client management, and leadership. The preference for agency and consulting experience, alongside sustainability knowledge, suggests the role operates at a high professional standard, requiring candidates to demonstrate not just technical skill but also business acumen and client advisory capabilities. The mention of AI and digital accessibility points to a forward-looking approach to design operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a diverse range of successful projects.

• Must include examples of print collateral (e.g., reports, brochures), digital interfaces (e.g., websites, dashboards), and branding systems (e.g., logos, style guides).

• Projects should demonstrate a clear understanding of typography, layout, and visual hierarchy.

• Showcase experience in translating complex or technical information into accessible and engaging visual narratives.

• Include case studies or project descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the impact achieved. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document and articulate design processes, from initial concept development through to final asset delivery and quality assurance.

• Experience in establishing and adhering to design workflows, project timelines, and file management protocols to ensure efficiency and consistency.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to integrate feedback loops and revision cycles into the design process effectively.

• Showcase experience in managing project scope and ensuring that all design deliverables align with client requirements and brand guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Managing Consultant role, the portfolio is not just a showcase of aesthetic talent but a demonstration of process, problem-solving, and project management capabilities. Candidates must be prepared to discuss the methodology behind their work, their contribution to project success, and how they manage design operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the location (New Delhi, India; Bengaluru, India), experience level (8-10 years with management), and the specialized nature of sustainability consulting and graphic design within a global firm like ERM, a competitive salary range for a Managing Consultant, Graphic Designer is estimated to be between ₹1,800,000 to ₹3,000,000 per annum. This range can vary based on specific qualifications, negotiation, and the final determination of the candidate's experience alignment.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and dependents.

• Retirement savings plans, including provident fund contributions.

• Paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and support for certifications.

• Opportunities for international collaboration and exposure to global projects.

• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.

• Parental leave policies.

• Access to ERM's global network and resources.

• Potential for flexible working arrangements or hybrid work models, subject to project and team needs.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week (e.g., 9 AM to 6 PM IST, Monday to Friday). However, due to the nature of client service and project deadlines, the role may require working extended hours, including evenings and occasional weekends, as necessary to meet project demands and client expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on market research for senior graphic design and consulting roles in major Indian metropolitan areas like New Delhi and Bengaluru, considering ERM's standing as a large, specialist consultancy. Benefits are typical for large multinational corporations in India, with an emphasis on professional growth and global engagement relevant to a consulting firm. The working hours note reflects the demanding, client-service-oriented nature of the role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Consulting. ERM is a global leader in sustainability consulting, helping organizations manage environmental risks and opportunities, and improve their social and governance practices.

Company Size: ERM is a large global firm, with over 8,000 employees across more than 150 offices worldwide. This scale provides significant resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad professional network.

Founded: ERM was founded in 1971, bringing over 50 years of experience in environmental consulting. This longevity signifies stability, deep expertise, and a well-established reputation in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Consulting Delivery Hub (CDH) in India, which acts as a global support function for ERM's regional consultants.

• The specific team is ERM Marketing & Communications Agency (MCA), an internal agency that provides specialized marketing and communications services to ERM's clients and internal teams.

• The Managing Consultant will report to a senior leader within ERM MCA (e.g., Head of Design or Director of MCA) and will directly manage a small team of 1-2 graphic designers.

• Collaboration is highly cross-functional, involving consultants from various service lines, other creative specialists, and directly with clients. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: ERM's approach is grounded in rigorous data analysis and technical expertise to inform sustainability strategies and communications.

• Collaborative Delivery: The CDH model emphasizes close partnership with regional teams to ensure scalable, high-quality project delivery.

• Strategic Communication: ERM MCA focuses on translating complex sustainability efforts into clear, compelling, and impactful stories that build brand value and drive stakeholder engagement.

• Innovation: There's a drive to incorporate emerging trends, digital best practices, and AI-enabled approaches into creative and delivery processes.

Company Website: https://www.erm.com/ and https://www.erm.com/marketingcommunications/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights ERM's position as a leader in sustainability and its unique global delivery model. The MCA team functions as a specialized internal agency, requiring a blend of creative excellence and a deep understanding of the consulting business and client needs. This means operations in this context are about efficient, high-quality creative service delivery that supports ERM's core mission.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior "Managing Consultant" level within the ERM MCA structure. It signifies a transition from an individual contributor design role to a leadership position that encompasses creative direction, client advisory, team management, and business development support. In a consulting context, "Managing Consultant" implies significant client-facing responsibilities, strategic input, and the ability to lead projects and teams independently.

Reporting Structure: The Managing Consultant will report to a senior leader within the ERM Marketing & Communications Agency (MCA), such as the Head of Design or Director of MCA. They will also have direct reports (1-2 Graphic Designers) within their immediate team. This structure involves both upward reporting and downward management, requiring strong communication and delegation skills.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant. It directly influences the quality and effectiveness of ERM's client communications, which in turn affects client satisfaction, brand perception, and the perceived value of ERM's sustainability consulting services. By ensuring clear, compelling visual narratives, this role helps clients achieve their ESG goals and enhances ERM's reputation as a leading sustainability advisor. The role also contributes to the operational efficiency and scalability of ERM's global delivery model through the CDH.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Progression to senior leadership roles within ERM MCA or the broader CDH, potentially leading larger teams or specialized creative functions.

• Strategic Advisory: Deepening expertise in sustainability communications strategy, becoming a go-to advisor for complex client engagements.

• Business Development: Contributing more significantly to proposal development, client pitches, and identifying new service opportunities within ERM MCA.

• Specialization: Developing deeper expertise in niche areas like digital accessibility, AI in design, animation, or specific sustainability communication frameworks.

• Global Exposure: Increased involvement in international projects and collaboration with ERM teams across different regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role emphasizes a move towards leadership and strategic influence within a specialized agency setting, rather than a traditional individual contributor design track. Growth is tied to managing people, influencing client strategy, and contributing to the business's operational and commercial success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment within ERM's India operations. This is likely a professional, corporate office setting designed to facilitate collaboration, client meetings, and focused work. Given ERM's global presence and the nature of consulting, the offices are typically modern and well-equipped.

Office Location(s): The role is available in New Delhi and Bengaluru, India. These are major metropolitan hubs offering access to talent, infrastructure, and a dynamic business environment. Candidates should expect to work from one of these office locations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will foster collaboration with other designers, consultants, and MCA team members, encouraging idea sharing and joint problem-solving.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), project management tools, and ERM's internal IT infrastructure will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project huddles, and informal interactions will be part of the daily work, promoting a cohesive team dynamic. The focus is on delivering high-quality creative output for global clients.

Work Schedule: The primary work schedule is full-time, typically Monday to Friday. However, as a consultant-facing role in a global firm, flexibility is expected. This may include occasional extended hours to meet project deadlines, client demands, or to collaborate with colleagues in different time zones. The emphasis is on results and client satisfaction, which may necessitate adapting work hours as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description points to a professional, on-site work environment that supports collaboration and client engagement, typical of a global consulting firm's office setup in India. The need for flexibility in working hours is a key aspect of the consulting profession.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: Candidates will be asked to submit their portfolio. A panel, likely including senior designers and MCA leadership, will review it. This will be followed by a technical interview focusing on design skills, creative process, and problem-solving.

• Case Study/Design Challenge: Candidates may be given a design challenge or asked to present a detailed case study from their portfolio, demonstrating their ability to translate complex information and manage a project from concept to completion.

• Leadership & Management Interview: An interview focused on people leadership, team management experience, conflict resolution, and DEI&B integration.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, business acumen, and overall suitability for the Managing Consultant role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase breadth (print, digital, branding) and depth. Tailor the selection to highlight experience in sustainability communications if possible.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's challenge, your role and process, the creative solutions you developed, and the measurable impact or outcome. Use visuals effectively to support your narrative.

• Highlight Management Experience: If presenting case studies that involved managing junior designers or leading a creative effort, explicitly state your leadership contribution and how you guided the team.

• Demonstrate Process: Be prepared to walk through your design process, including research, ideation, iteration, feedback incorporation, and final delivery. Show your problem-solving approach.

• Quality Over Quantity: Ensure all presented work is polished, well-executed, and free of errors. This reflects your attention to detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: If given a design challenge, thoroughly understand the brief, the client's industry (sustainability), and the target audience.

• Focus on Strategy: Demonstrate how your design choices align with strategic objectives. Explain the "why" behind your creative decisions.

• Time Management: Allocate your time wisely between ideation, execution, and presentation preparation. Practice delivering your response within any time constraints.

• Stakeholder Communication: Be ready to present your work clearly and concisely, anticipating questions and providing thoughtful responses. Practice articulating your ideas as if presenting to a client.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a comprehensive skill set, moving beyond pure design talent to evaluate leadership, strategic thinking, client management, and operational execution within the consulting context. A well-prepared portfolio and presentation are critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Proficiency is non-negotiable. This includes:

  • Adobe InDesign: For multi-page layouts, reports, brochures, and editorial design.
  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and complex illustrations.
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image manipulation, retouching, and digital asset creation.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for collaboration and client deliverables.

  • PowerPoint: For presentations and pitches.
  • Word: For document creation and collaboration.
  • Excel: For data handling and basic reporting.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic understanding of web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) to inform digital design decisions.

• Ability to interpret data from reports to inform design strategy and demonstrate impact. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira, or ERM's internal systems) for task management and workflow tracking.

• Understanding of CRM principles is beneficial for client-facing roles, though direct CRM tool proficiency might not be a primary requirement for the designer. Other Relevant Technologies:

• UX/UI Design Tools: Experience with tools like Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD for digital interface design.

• Web Technologies: Knowledge of CSS and HTML is required for understanding web design constraints and possibilities.

• Webflow: Preferred skill for website design and content management.

• AI-enabled design tools: Familiarity with emerging AI tools for content generation, image creation, or workflow automation is a plus.

• Video/Animation Software: Experience with Adobe After Effects or similar tools is preferred.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes advanced design software proficiency, complemented by tools for digital design, project management, and an understanding of web technologies. The inclusion of AI and Webflow indicates a focus on modern, efficient creative operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to producing high-quality, impactful creative work that meets and exceeds client expectations. This translates to meticulous attention to detail and a drive for continuous improvement in design output.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication, mutual respect, and collective problem-solving. The MCA team operates as a supportive unit, sharing expertise and contributing to shared goals.

• Client Focus: A dedication to understanding client needs and delivering solutions that address their specific challenges and objectives, particularly in the complex domain of sustainability.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies, design trends, and methodologies to stay ahead in a dynamic field and to offer cutting-edge solutions. This includes leveraging AI and digital best practices.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all client interactions and internal operations, reflecting ERM's broader commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with consultants, project managers, and other internal stakeholders to ensure design work is strategically aligned with client project goals and ERM's service offerings.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Encouraging a safe environment for giving and receiving feedback on design work, fostering continuous learning and improvement for individuals and the team.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, design techniques, and industry insights through internal forums, workshops, and informal discussions.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear, consistent, and timely communication with team members and clients, managing expectations effectively throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are geared towards a high-performing, client-centric, and collaborative environment, typical of a professional services firm. The emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and integrity aligns with ERM's core mission and the specialized nature of the MCA.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Concepts: The primary challenge is to visually simplify and communicate intricate sustainability and ESG topics in a way that is accessible and engaging to diverse audiences.

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Standards: Effectively balancing innovative design solutions with strict client brand guidelines and ERM's own corporate identity requirements.

• Managing Global Stakeholder Expectations: Navigating diverse perspectives and expectations from internal ERM teams and international clients, requiring strong diplomacy and communication skills.

• Pace of Technological Change: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in design software, AI tools, and digital platforms to ensure ERM MCA remains at the forefront of creative delivery.

• Team Leadership Dynamics: Effectively managing and motivating a small team, potentially across different locations or with varying experience levels, while fostering a cohesive unit.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sustainability Expertise: Gaining deeper knowledge of sustainability frameworks, ESG reporting standards, and environmental/social issues through exposure to ERM's core business.

• Advanced Design Skills: Opportunities to develop expertise in specialized areas like motion graphics, interactive design, digital accessibility, or AI-driven creative workflows.

• Consulting Acumen: Developing strategic thinking, client advisory, and business development skills through close collaboration with ERM's consulting teams.

• Leadership Training: Access to ERM's internal leadership development programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities to enhance people management capabilities.

• Industry Exposure: Potential to attend industry conferences, webinars, and workshops focused on design, marketing, and sustainability communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to a role bridging creative design, complex subject matter, and client service within a global consulting firm. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a path for significant professional development in both creative and strategic domains.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a highly technical or complex topic into a clear and engaging visual narrative. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, problem-solving, and impact.)

• "How do you approach balancing creative innovation with established brand guidelines and client requirements? Can you provide an example?" (Demonstrate your ability to be creative within constraints and your understanding of brand strategy.)

• "Imagine a client is resistant to a design direction you believe is critical for their sustainability report's impact. How would you handle this conversation and persuade them?" (Showcase your client management, communication, and strategic persuasion skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about ERM's focus on sustainability and ESG, and how do you see graphic design contributing to this mission?" (Research ERM's mission and tailor your answer to connect design with impact.)

• "How would you foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within a small design team, especially when dealing with feedback or potential conflict?" (Highlight your leadership style, DEI&B commitment, and conflict resolution approach.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and emerging technologies, such as AI, and how would you integrate them into our client delivery process?" (Show your proactive learning and innovative mindset.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each selected project, start with the client's challenge, your role, the strategic goals, your creative process (ideation, design, revisions), the final solution, and the measurable impact or outcome.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity, successful campaign launch).

• Highlight Leadership: If a project involved managing others, clearly articulate your leadership contributions, how you delegated, mentored, and ensured quality.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, technical execution, and your reasoning behind them.

• Showcase Versatility: Ensure your presentation highlights your range across different media (print, digital, branding).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative expertise, strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and an understanding of ERM's mission. Case studies and examples are crucial for substantiating claims.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Managing Consultant, Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the ERM Careers portal link provided.

• Curate a strong, tailored portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best represent your skills in print, digital, branding, and translating complex information. Ensure it highlights any relevant sustainability or ESG communication experience.

• Optimize your resume: Clearly articulate your years of experience, management experience, key technical skills (Adobe Suite, UX/UI), and any relevant industry knowledge. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio with a clear narrative, focusing on your process, leadership contributions, and the impact of your work. Practice your delivery.

• Research ERM: Understand ERM's mission, its work in sustainability, and the role of the Marketing & Communications Agency. Prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ 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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