Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer

Company: University of Toronto Press

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-03

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a hybrid of creative design and marketing support, requiring a blend of visual communication and campaign execution skills.

• Focuses on developing marketing collateral for both print and digital channels, ensuring brand consistency and high-quality output.

• Involves active participation in social media content creation, event planning, and general administrative duties to support the retail marketing team.

• Requires strong proficiency in design software and an understanding of retail marketing strategies to contribute to the success of the U of T Bookstore.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests a marketing assistant role, the significant emphasis on graphic design and visual communication indicates a specialized function within marketing operations, focusing on the creation and dissemination of branded assets. The role's placement within the "Retail" division and its proximity to the U of T Bookstore suggests a direct impact on in-store and e-commerce marketing efforts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and produce a wide range of marketing materials, including advertisements, posters, in-store signage, promotional assets, and digital banners for print and web platforms.

• Maintain strict brand consistency across all visual and marketing communications, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines.

• Develop and design presentations, infographics, and other branded collateral for internal stakeholders and external partners.

• Edit and retouch product and lifestyle photography for both digital and print applications, ensuring optimal visual quality.

• Support photography shoots and manage digital asset libraries efficiently.

• Create fillable forms, certificates, and assist in the production of video content for website and social media channels.

• Assist in the creation, scheduling, and deployment of social media content across platforms like LinkedIn and the company website.

• Design and implement digital assets such as banners, sidebars, and carousels for e-commerce and website integration.

• Design and execute email newsletters to engage target audiences.

• Collaborate with the marketing team on event planning, including designing invitations, creating promotional ads and signage, and assisting with logistics and branded merchandise.

• Source branded merchandise, office supplies, and premium items for marketing initiatives.

• Coordinate marketing projects from initiation to completion, effectively managing multiple tasks and ensuring timely delivery.

• Provide administrative support, including responding to customer and inter-departmental inquiries and providing project status updates.

• Contribute to special projects and initiatives within the marketing team in a creative and collaborative capacity.

• Support in-store visual merchandising by placing and managing signage in partnership with Store Leadership.

• Assist with in-store launch dates and events, contributing to preparation and collaboration with internal and external partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a dual focus: graphic design for marketing collateral and direct support for marketing campaigns and operations. The emphasis on "retail marketing" and "in-store support" highlights a practical, hands-on application of design skills within a retail environment, which is a key differentiator for this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Post-secondary graduate in Marketing, Communications, Graphic Design, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, or graphic design.

Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Proficiency: Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for creating a variety of marketing materials.

• Brand Management: Ability to ensure brand consistency across all visual and marketing collateral.

• Digital Asset Creation: Experience designing digital assets for websites, social media, and e-commerce platforms.

• Content Development: Skill in creating advertisements, posters, signage, presentations, and infographics.

• Photography & Editing: Proficiency in editing and retouching product and lifestyle photography.

• Social Media Support: Experience assisting with social media content creation and scheduling.

• Project Coordination: Ability to manage multiple projects, tasks, and deadlines effectively.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication with a keen attention to detail.

• Microsoft 365 Suite: Proficiency in PowerPoint, Word, and Excel for various marketing and administrative tasks.

• Retail Marketing Understanding: Ability to design for retail environments, including catalogues, digital signage, and store signage.

Preferred Skills:

• Canva Proficiency: Experience with Canva as a design tool.

• Video Production & Editing: Familiarity with video creation and editing processes.

• Photography Skills: Experience with DSLR cameras and photo editing software like Lightroom.

• Event Planning Support: Experience assisting with the logistics and promotional aspects of events.

• E-commerce Design: Specific experience designing assets for online retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2+ years of experience" requirement, coupled with the need for proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and a design portfolio, suggests that candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a foundational level of professional creative output. The inclusion of Canva as a "plus" indicates a willingness to embrace diverse design tools, but Adobe Suite is clearly the core requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive design portfolio showcasing creativity, technical skill, and proficiency in graphic design.

• Examples of marketing collateral designed for both print and digital platforms, demonstrating versatility.

• Case studies or examples of work that highlight an understanding of retail marketing and branding.

• Visual assets created for social media, websites, and e-commerce applications.

• Evidence of ability to maintain brand consistency across diverse design projects. Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for formal documentation, candidates are expected to articulate their design process, workflow management, and project coordination methods during interviews.

• Ability to demonstrate how they manage design requests, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure quality control throughout the design lifecycle.

• Understanding of asset management and digital asset library organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a "Design portfolio showcasing creativity and proficiency in graphic design and photography" is critical. Candidates must curate their portfolios to highlight relevant retail and marketing design examples, as well as demonstrate their photography and editing capabilities. This portfolio will likely be a central piece of the evaluation process.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $40,000 to $45,000 CAD per annum.

Benefits:

• As a full-time employee of the University of Toronto Press, candidates can expect a comprehensive benefits package. While specific details are not provided, typical benefits for such roles at established institutions often include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)

  • Pension or retirement savings plan contributions

  • Opportunities for professional development and training

  • Access to U of T campus resources and discounts (e.g., U of T Bookstore discounts)

  • Potential for employee assistance programs. Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $40,000-$45,000 CAD per annum is competitive for an entry-to-mid-level Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer role in Toronto, considering the required experience and skill set. This range aligns with industry benchmarks for similar positions in the Canadian market.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Publishing (University Press), Retail (Bookstores)

Company Size: Large (UTP manages distribution for over 250 publishers and runs multiple university bookstores, indicating a significant operational footprint).

Founded: 1901, with a long-standing history of publishing scholarly work and a recent focus on diversity and inclusion.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the Sr. Marketing Manager within the Retail division.

• This suggests a structured marketing team where the Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with other marketing professionals.

• The role also involves direct interaction with Store Leadership at the U of T Bookstore, indicating cross-functional collaboration across departments. Methodology:

• UTP emphasizes a commitment to diversity, representation, and effecting positive change within its publications and organizational structure.

• The company culture values mutual trust, respect, and integrity, aiming to identify and remove barriers and challenge systemic inequities.

• A growth mindset, intellectual curiosity, and continuous learning are highly valued.

Company Website: https://utorontopress.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated commitment to diversity, inclusion, and challenging systemic inequities is a significant cultural aspect that candidates should be aware of. This suggests an environment that values social responsibility and continuous improvement, which may influence team dynamics and project approaches.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-to-mid-level position, suitable for individuals with 2-5 years of experience. It offers a foundational role within a marketing and design function, with opportunities to grow into more specialized or senior design and marketing roles.

Reporting Structure: The Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer reports to the Sr. Marketing Manager. This indicates a clear reporting line and access to mentorship from a senior team member. Collaboration with Store Leadership suggests exposure to different facets of retail operations.

Operations Impact: The role's direct contribution to marketing campaigns, visual branding, and in-store promotions has a tangible impact on customer engagement, brand perception, and sales performance for the U of T Bookstore. By creating compelling marketing collateral and supporting events, this role directly influences the retail experience and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific areas of graphic design (e.g., digital marketing design, print production) or marketing (e.g., social media strategy, event marketing).

• Marketing Operations Advancement: With experience, could move into roles focused on campaign management, digital marketing coordination, or senior graphic design positions.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Opportunity to gain broader experience in retail operations, publishing, and distribution through collaboration with different departments.

• Leadership Potential: For exceptional performers, there could be opportunities to take on more project leadership or mentor junior team members in the future.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role likely involves specializing in either graphic design or marketing campaign support. Given the "Retail" division context, there's also potential to move into broader retail marketing management roles if experience is gained in that specific sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the U of T Bookstore on the St. George Campus, indicating a dynamic, on-site work environment within a university setting. This suggests a blend of retail operations and an academic/professional atmosphere.

Office Location(s): U of T Bookstore, St George Campus, Toronto, ON. This location offers a vibrant campus environment with opportunities for interaction with students, faculty, and staff.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely collaborative, requiring close interaction with the marketing team and potentially retail staff.

• Access to design software and potentially photography equipment will be standard.

• The environment may involve a mix of desk work, creative design sessions, and on-site support for events or store promotions.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. While not explicitly stated, roles in retail and marketing often require some flexibility, potentially including occasional evening or weekend work for events or critical campaign launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on a university campus can offer a unique cultural experience. Candidates should consider the pace and nature of a retail bookstore environment alongside the academic backdrop of the University of Toronto.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter, with a strong emphasis on the submitted design portfolio.

• First Interview: Likely a conversation with the Sr. Marketing Manager to assess foundational skills, experience, and cultural fit. This may include a review of portfolio pieces and discussion of past projects.

• Skills Assessment/Creative Challenge: Potential for a practical design exercise or a case study related to retail marketing challenges. This would evaluate creative problem-solving and design execution under timed conditions.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with other marketing team members or retail leadership to confirm fit and discuss the role's strategic contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your graphic design, photography, and retail marketing skills. Prioritize pieces that align with UTP's brand and the U of T Bookstore's aesthetic.

• Highlight Process: For each project, be prepared to briefly explain your design process, the problem you were solving, your creative approach, the tools used, and the outcome or impact.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of both print and digital designs, social media assets, signage, and any e-commerce or photography work.

• Quality Over Quantity: Ensure all presented work is high-resolution and professionally displayed.

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio pieces as mini-case studies, demonstrating your understanding of client needs and your ability to deliver effective visual solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Retail Marketing Focus: If a design challenge is given, anticipate tasks related to creating promotional materials for books, campus events, or retail sales.

• Brand Consistency: Practice applying specific brand guidelines quickly and accurately.

• Software Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate your ability to use Adobe Creative Suite efficiently.

• Time Management: If it's a timed exercise, practice working efficiently to produce a high-quality output within the given timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., via a link on their resume or a dedicated website) and showcases work that directly addresses the requirements of a Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer in a retail and publishing context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for graphic design tasks, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• Microsoft 365: Includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, necessary for document creation, data handling, and presentations.

• Canva: Mentioned as a "plus," indicating it's a beneficial, though not mandatory, tool for quick design tasks or collaborative work.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, familiarity with website analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) for digital asset performance and social media analytics tools would be advantageous. CRM & Automation:

• Email Marketing Platforms: Experience with platforms for designing and deploying newsletters (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or similar) is implied by the newsletter creation responsibility.

• Social Media Management Tools: Familiarity with scheduling tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer) would support the social media content scheduling duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft 365 as required tools underscores the technical skills needed. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and comfort level with these platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Quality: A strong emphasis on producing high-quality, visually appealing work and fostering creative solutions.

• Brand Integrity: Commitment to maintaining brand consistency and upholding brand guidelines across all marketing efforts.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role requires close collaboration with the Sr. Marketing Manager, other marketing team members, and retail staff.

• Growth Mindset: Valuing intellectual curiosity, continuous learning, and a proactive approach to skill development.

• Inclusivity & Respect: Adherence to company values of mutual trust, respect, integrity, and a commitment to challenging inequities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional: Active collaboration with marketing, retail operations, and potentially publishing teams.

• Feedback-Oriented: Likely an environment where feedback on designs and marketing initiatives is exchanged to refine output.

• Project-Driven: Work is structured around marketing campaigns, events, and specific design requests, requiring clear communication and task management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values, particularly regarding inclusivity and continuous improvement, suggest an environment that encourages open communication and personal growth. Candidates who align with these values will likely thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Dual Roles: Effectively managing responsibilities across both graphic design and marketing support can be demanding.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: The fast-paced nature of retail and marketing often requires delivering high-quality work under pressure.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all creative output adheres to brand guidelines across various platforms and materials.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Staying current with design trends and social media best practices.

• In-Store Support Demands: Occasionally needing to provide on-site support for events or promotions, which may require flexibility in the work schedule and location.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to refine skills in Adobe Creative Suite and explore new design software or techniques.

• Retail Marketing Strategy: Gaining deeper insights into retail marketing campaigns, visual merchandising, and customer engagement strategies.

• Digital Marketing Skills: Developing expertise in social media marketing, e-commerce design, and email marketing.

• Project Management: Enhancing project coordination and management skills through hands-on experience.

• Industry Exposure: Working within a renowned university press and prominent university bookstore provides exposure to academic publishing and retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role, such as balancing dual responsibilities and tight deadlines, present significant opportunities for professional development and skill acquisition, particularly in project management and efficient workflow optimization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance multiple design projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and manage your workload?" (Focus on project management and prioritization skills)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across different marketing materials and platforms?" (Assess understanding of branding principles)

• "Walk us through your design process for creating a marketing campaign asset, from concept to final delivery." (Evaluate design methodology and workflow)

• "How do you incorporate feedback from stakeholders into your design work, especially when there are creative differences?" (Test communication and collaboration skills)

• "Describe your experience with social media content creation and scheduling. What platforms are you most familiar with?" (Gauge social media marketing support capabilities) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the University of Toronto Press and specifically within the retail division?" (Assess company research and alignment with mission)

• "How do you see your skills contributing to the success of the U of T Bookstore?" (Evaluate understanding of the role's impact)

• "Our values include trust, respect, integrity, and a commitment to challenging inequities. How do these values resonate with you?" (Assess cultural fit and alignment with company ethos)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to a new tool or technology in your design or marketing work." (Gauge adaptability and growth mindset) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prepare a Concise Narrative: For each portfolio piece, have a 1-2 minute story ready that outlines the objective, your role, the challenges, your creative solution, and the outcome.

• Focus on Relevance: Highlight projects that are most similar to the requirements of this role (retail, print, digital marketing collateral, social media assets).

• Demonstrate Technical Skill: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques you used.

• Showcase Retail Understanding: If you have retail-specific design examples, emphasize them.

• Be Ready for Critique: Approach feedback on your portfolio as a learning opportunity.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize demonstrating practical design skills, project management abilities, and a clear understanding of how design contributes to marketing objectives, particularly within a retail context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Marketing Assistant & Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Ultipro recruitment portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume or cover letter includes a clear link to your online design portfolio. Curate your portfolio to prominently feature examples of retail marketing collateral, social media assets, print advertisements, and any photography/editing work.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "graphic design," "marketing collateral," "Adobe Creative Suite," "retail marketing," "social media," "brand consistency," and "project coordination." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X number of social media posts per week," "Contributed to Y marketing campaigns").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, explaining your portfolio pieces, and responding to strategy and behavioral questions related to project management, collaboration, and creative problem-solving.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with University of Toronto Press's mission, recent publications, and the U of T Bookstore's presence and offerings. Understand the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

⚠️ 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.