Marketing Designer (F/M/*)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Marketing Designer (F/M/*)

Company: amber

Location: Köln, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-11

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead visual design initiatives for a leading European Business AI startup, focusing on enhancing brand presence and customer engagement through compelling creative assets.

• Drive the visual storytelling of amber by conceptualizing and executing designs for a wide array of marketing channels, including digital ads, social media, trade shows, and video content.

• Translate complex AI concepts into accessible and aesthetically pleasing visual communications that resonate with target audiences in the SME sector.

• Collaborate closely with marketing, product, and sales teams to ensure brand consistency and amplify the company's market positioning through impactful design solutions.

• Contribute to the evolution of amber's brand identity by proactively identifying design opportunities and implementing innovative visual strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Marketing Designer within an AI startup focused on Business AI solutions for SMEs. While the title is "Marketing Designer," the responsibilities and required skills strongly align with a "Creative Operations" or "Marketing Operations" function, emphasizing the execution and management of visual marketing assets and brand consistency. The hybrid work model and focus on visual communication for a tech product are key differentiators.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute compelling visual concepts for online advertising campaigns across Google Ads, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms to promote the amber product.

• Translate and implement the corporate identity (CI) into various physical and digital formats, including flyers, banners, rollups, promotional merchandise, and complete business stationery.

• Design impactful marketing collateral and trade fair booths that effectively represent the amber brand and its innovative AI solutions.

• Bring designs and videos to life using industry-standard tools such as Photoshop and InDesign, ensuring high-quality visual output.

• Proactively contribute creative ideas to enhance amber's external visual presence and evolve its brand identity, taking ownership of design initiatives.

• Contribute to the visual design and user experience of the company website, applying a keen eye for modern web design principles.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional departments, translating feedback from various teams into design iterations swiftly and efficiently.

• Assist in the creation of video content, with a willingness to learn and experiment with video editing if not already proficient.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of campaign design, brand implementation, and website contribution, requiring a versatile designer. The emphasis on proactive contribution and ownership suggests a need for an individual who can drive initiatives rather than just execute tasks. The specific mention of "Business AI" and "SME sector" indicates the need for designs that communicate technical sophistication in a relatable manner.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Marketing, or a related field is typically expected for this level of responsibility. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 2-5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a proven track record in marketing design, brand implementation, and digital asset creation, preferably within a software startup or agency environment.

Required Skills:

• Daily proficiency and hands-on experience with design software: Photoshop, Canva, and InDesign.

• Proven experience in designing a range of marketing materials, including advertising materials, business stationery, banners, and trade fair booths.

• Strong creative flair and an eye for current design trends, particularly for visual online campaigns on platforms like Google, LinkedIn, and social media.

• Excellent understanding of web design principles and the ability to create visually engaging website elements.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as an interface between different departments, translating feedback into design improvements.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the software startup or agency environment, understanding fast-paced, iterative design processes.

• Video editing skills (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro) are a significant plus.

• Familiarity with AI concepts and the ability to visually represent technical products.

• Experience with A/B testing of visual assets for campaign optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical tool proficiency and a demonstrated portfolio of work. The "nice to have" for video editing and the explicit mention of "ambition over ego" and "ownership" point towards a candidate who is not only skilled but also possesses a strong work ethic and proactive mindset, common in startup environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of design projects demonstrating proficiency in Photoshop, Canva, and InDesign.

• Include examples of visual concepts developed for online campaigns (e.g., Google Ads, LinkedIn, Social Media).

• Present case studies or examples of implemented corporate identity across various formats (flyers, banners, business stationery).

• Feature designs for trade fair booths or marketing collateral that highlight brand representation.

• Include examples of website design contributions or improvements, demonstrating an understanding of web aesthetics and user experience.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process from concept ideation to final asset delivery, including how you manage feedback and iterate on designs.

• Articulate how you ensure brand consistency across different projects and platforms.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how design supports marketing objectives and contributes to campaign performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should curate their submissions to highlight projects that directly address the responsibilities outlined, particularly those demonstrating versatility across digital and print media, brand implementation, and campaign-specific design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €40,000 - €60,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Team Offsites: Bi-annual European team gatherings to foster international collaboration and team cohesion.

• Mobility/Wellness: Choice between a subsidized Deutschlandticket (public transport pass) or an Urban Sports Club membership.

• Hybrid Work Model: A structured hybrid approach with 3 mandatory in-office days per week to encourage in-person collaboration.

• Daily Meal Vouchers: Tax-free digital meal vouchers provided daily for days worked in the office.

• Attractive Compensation: Competitive salary package.

• Company Shares/Equity: Opportunity to receive company shares, directly linking employee success to business outcomes.

• Professional Development: Access to further education, training, and opportunities to learn new skills and expand responsibilities.

• Innovative Environment: Work with cutting-edge technologies and tools in a dynamic AI startup.

• Motivated Team: Collaboration with a driven team dedicated to making AI solutions accessible to SMEs.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week, with flexibility inherent in the hybrid model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is based on the input data for a mid-level designer in Germany. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being, professional growth, and a unique hybrid work model. The inclusion of company shares is a significant incentive common in startup environments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology / Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

Company Size: Growing startup, likely between 50-200 employees based on the description of being Aachen's largest and Cologne's fastest-growing AI startup.

Founded: While not explicitly stated, the description implies a relatively young company that has achieved significant growth, positioning itself as a leader in the European AI space.

Team Structure:

• The role of Marketing Designer operates within the marketing function, likely collaborating closely with marketing managers, product marketing specialists, and potentially sales enablement teams.

• The company emphasizes an international team, suggesting a diverse and global outlook in its operations and workforce.

Methodology:

• Data-driven approach to product development and marketing, with a focus on delivering tangible value to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

• Emphasis on innovation and leveraging the latest AI technologies to create intelligent agents and contextual knowledge layers.

• Collaborative and agile work environment, common in startups, encouraging quick iteration and adaptation.

Company Website: https://ambersearch.de/

📝 Enhancement Note: Amber positions itself as a European leader in Business AI, aiming to make internal knowledge readily accessible and actionable for SMEs. The culture appears to be ambitious, growth-oriented, and focused on innovation, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and ownership, crucial for a startup environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-level individual contributor position within the marketing/creative operations sphere. It offers a significant opportunity to shape the visual identity of a fast-growing AI startup.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Marketing Lead, Head of Marketing, or a Creative Director if one exists. Close collaboration with product, sales, and other marketing functions is expected.

Operations Impact: The Marketing Designer directly impacts brand perception, lead generation through effective visual campaigns, and overall market presence. Their work is crucial for communicating the value and innovation of amber's AI solutions to potential clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in areas such as digital campaign design, UI/UX for marketing, motion graphics, or video production.

• Brand Leadership: Progress to a Senior Marketing Designer or Art Director role, taking on more strategic brand direction and potentially managing junior designers.

• Cross-functional Expansion: Develop skills in marketing strategy, product marketing, or even contribute to product design if interests align.

• Startup Growth: Grow with the company, potentially taking on leadership roles as the marketing department expands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers substantial growth potential within a rapidly expanding AI startup. The emphasis on "ownership" and "ambition" suggests that individuals who demonstrate initiative and a strong desire to learn and contribute will find ample opportunities for advancement and skill development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model with 3 mandatory days in the office, indicating a blend of in-person collaboration and remote flexibility. The office environment is likely modern and collaborative, designed to support team interaction.

Office Location(s): Köln (Cologne), Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. Specific office details are not provided but are implied to be accessible and conducive to a hybrid work setup.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model with 3 in-office days is designed to foster face-to-face collaboration, brainstorming, and team building amongst designers, marketers, and other departments.

• Tools & Technology: Access to the latest design tools and technologies is implied, supporting creative output and efficiency.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a motivated, international team of AI professionals, fostering knowledge sharing and cross-functional understanding.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week. The hybrid model allows for a structured schedule that balances in-office presence with remote work flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of the work environment. Candidates should be comfortable with a structured in-office presence 3 days a week, balancing it with remote work. This model is designed to capture the benefits of both in-person collaboration and individual focus time.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative output.

• Creative Challenge/Task: Likely to be presented with a design task relevant to amber's brand or marketing needs, allowing evaluation of your practical skills, creative thinking, and problem-solving approach. This might involve designing a campaign element or adapting existing branding.

• Team Interview: Discussion with potential team members (e.g., marketing, other designers) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and understanding of the company's mission.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A deeper dive into your experience, career aspirations, and how you can contribute to amber's growth. Discussion of the company's vision and your role within it.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that directly align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description (e.g., digital ads, brand implementation, web design).

• Showcase Process: For key projects, briefly explain your design process, the problem you were solving, your creative approach, and the outcome or impact.

• Highlight Versatility: Demonstrate proficiency across different design mediums and tools (Photoshop, Canva, InDesign).

• Brand Consistency Focus: Include examples that show how you've maintained or developed brand identity.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you have data on how your designs improved campaign performance or engagement, include it.

• Tailor to AI/Tech: If possible, include projects that show an understanding of designing for technology or B2B audiences.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brand: Thoroughly research amber's current branding, website, and marketing materials.

• Anticipate Task Type: Prepare for tasks that involve creating digital ad mockups, adapting brand guidelines, or designing a simple promotional item.

• Focus on Efficiency: Be ready to articulate how you can deliver high-quality designs efficiently, given the startup environment.

• Articulate Rationale: Be prepared to explain the strategic thinking behind your design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on both creative execution and strategic thinking. A strong portfolio and the ability to articulate design rationale, especially in the context of a tech startup, will be key. The "ambition over ego" and "ownership" values will likely be assessed through behavioral questions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, InDesign (essential).

• Canva: For quick design creation and potentially for broader team accessibility.

• Web Design Tools: Familiarity with design aspects of platforms or tools used for website management (e.g., Figma, Sketch, or CMS interfaces like WordPress).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Understanding of how design impacts campaign performance metrics (e.g., click-through rates, conversion rates).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how marketing assets are used within CRM or marketing automation platforms (e.g., HubSpot, Salesforce Marketing Cloud) can be beneficial.

• Awareness of digital advertising platforms like Google Ads and LinkedIn Ads Manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Photoshop, Canva, and InDesign is non-negotiable. Familiarity with web design principles and an understanding of how design interacts with digital marketing platforms and analytics will be highly advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Ambition over Ego: A core value that prioritizes collective success and drive for results over individual recognition. This means being open to feedback and focusing on what's best for amber's growth.

• Ownership: Taking full responsibility for tasks from initiation to completion, ensuring reliability and accountability. This translates to proactive problem-solving and seeing projects through to the end.

• Innovation: A commitment to leveraging cutting-edge AI technology and creative design to push boundaries and develop market-leading solutions.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across departments, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a supportive and high-performing team environment.

• European Focus: A dedication to serving the European market with AI solutions tailored for SMEs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with marketing, product, and sales teams, acting as a bridge between technical capabilities and market communication.

• Agile & Iterative: A culture that embraces rapid prototyping, feedback loops, and iterative design improvements to adapt quickly to market needs and technological advancements.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and honest feedback to foster continuous improvement and a shared understanding of goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated values of "Ambition over Ego" and "Ownership" are critical indicators of the startup's culture. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate these qualities in their applications and interviews, showing initiative, a results-oriented mindset, and a willingness to go the extra mile.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Visualizing AI: Translating complex and abstract AI concepts into clear, compelling, and relatable visual designs for a non-technical SME audience.

• Brand Evolution: Contributing to the growth and evolution of a brand identity in a rapidly changing AI landscape, requiring continuous adaptation and innovation.

• Startup Pace: Thriving in a fast-paced startup environment that demands agility, quick turnarounds, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Hybrid Work Integration: Effectively collaborating and maintaining strong creative output within a hybrid work model, ensuring seamless communication and workflow between in-office and remote days.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Opportunities to attend workshops, online courses, or gain certifications in specialized design areas (e.g., motion graphics, UI/UX for marketing).

• Industry Exposure: Exposure to the cutting edge of AI technology and its application in business, broadening understanding of the product and its market.

• Strategic Marketing Input: Gaining deeper insights into marketing strategy, campaign planning, and performance analysis through close collaboration with the marketing team.

• Leadership Potential: As the company grows, opportunities may arise to mentor junior designers or take on more strategic leadership roles within the creative function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a designer in a growing tech startup, requiring adaptability, strong communication, and a proactive approach. The growth opportunities are substantial, leveraging the dynamic nature of the AI industry and startup environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a visual campaign for a new AI feature aimed at small business owners who may not be tech-savvy?" (Focus on clarity, benefit-driven visuals, and understanding the target audience).

• "Describe your process for ensuring brand consistency across all marketing materials, from digital ads to trade show booths." (Highlight your understanding of CI/CD, style guides, and systematic approaches).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about amber's mission to make Business AI accessible to SMEs, and how would your design work support this?" (Showcase your alignment with the company's purpose).

• "How do you embody our values of 'Ambition over Ego' and 'Ownership' in your work?" (Provide specific examples from past experiences).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the context, the challenge, your design solution, and the outcome.

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your presentation explicitly showcases your proficiency in Photoshop, Canva, and InDesign, as well as your ability in web and campaign design.

• Demonstrate Brand Thinking: Show how you apply brand guidelines and contribute to brand development.

• Be Concise and Focused: Respect the interviewer's time by presenting your strongest and most relevant work efficiently.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, strategic thinking, cultural fit, and a proactive, ownership-driven mindset. Understanding amber's specific niche in Business AI is crucial for tailoring responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Marketing Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.ashbyhq.com.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight experience in graphic design, marketing collateral creation, brand implementation, and proficiency in Photoshop, Canva, and InDesign. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate your Portfolio: Select your most relevant design projects, focusing on those that demonstrate campaign design, brand consistency, web design, and experience with digital advertising platforms. Be ready to articulate your process and rationale for each piece.

• Prepare for a Design Task: Anticipate a practical design challenge that will assess your skills and creative approach.

• Research amber: Understand the company's mission, product (Business AI for SMEs), target audience, and current branding to articulate your fit and enthusiasm during interviews.

⚠️ 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.