Motion Graphic Designer (Maidstone Kent)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Motion Graphic Designer

Company: Essex Police and Kent Police

Location: Maidstone, Kent, United Kingdom

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Government & Public Sector

Date Posted: 2026-08-12

Experience Level: Mid-Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce high-quality motion graphics, video content, and infographics for social media and force-wide campaigns, enhancing public understanding of police operations.

• Manage end-to-end design projects, ensuring all digital and static outputs meet accessibility, legal, and brand compliance standards.

• Collaborate closely with Digital Communications, Internal Communications, Marketing, and the Press Office to align visual content with strategic messaging.

• Drive improvements in the force's social media output and maintain robust brand management, providing expert advice to senior leadership and stakeholders on visual communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for translating complex or sensitive police information into accessible, engaging visual content, directly impacting public perception and communication effectiveness. The emphasis on social media output suggests a need for dynamic, platform-optimized content.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and animate motion graphics, video sequences, and infographics for various digital platforms, with a primary focus on social media.

• Develop compelling visual narratives that clearly communicate the work, initiatives, and public safety messages of Kent Police.

• Manage project timelines, resources, and stakeholder expectations from brief to final delivery, ensuring all design deliverables are accurate and impactful.

• Ensure all created content adheres to brand guidelines, accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG), and relevant legal requirements for public sector communications.

• Proactively identify opportunities to enhance the force's social media presence and engagement through innovative visual content strategies.

• Provide expert consultation and support to senior officers, internal departments, and external stakeholders on graphic design best practices and visual communication strategies.

• Maintain and evolve the force's brand identity across all digital and print collateral.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility for "improving the force's social media output" implies a proactive role in content strategy and execution, not just fulfillment of briefs. The need to "offer support and advice to senior leadership" indicates a significant level of autonomy and influence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational qualifications are mandated, but a strong portfolio demonstrating proficiency in motion graphics and design is paramount.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of professional experience in motion graphics design, with a proven track record in creating impactful visual content for digital platforms.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite, specifically:

  • Adobe After Effects (for motion graphics and animation)
  • Adobe Premiere Pro (for video editing)
  • Adobe Photoshop (for image manipulation and graphic design)
  • Adobe Illustrator (for vector graphics and asset creation)

• Demonstrated experience in video and infographic production and editing.

• Proven ability to create engaging content tailored for social media platforms.

• Strong understanding of brand management principles and application.

• Excellent attention to detail, particularly when working with complex or sensitive information.

• Ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, from concept to completion.

• Strong visual storytelling capabilities and creative ideation skills. Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within internal communications, preferably in a policing or public sector environment.

• Familiarity with accessibility standards and legal compliance in digital content creation.

• Experience in asset management and maintaining design archives.

• Basic understanding of UX/UI principles as they apply to digital content.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement to provide evidence of skills within the application "reason for application" section, rather than a CV, suggests that the hiring team is looking for detailed, narrative-driven examples of how candidates have applied these skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a diverse range of motion graphics, animated explainer videos, and infographics.

• Case studies demonstrating the full design process for significant projects, including problem definition, creative ideation, execution, and final output.

• Examples of social media content creation, highlighting engagement metrics or campaign success where possible.

• Demonstrations of how brand guidelines and accessibility standards were incorporated into design work.

• Inclusion of projects that handled complex or sensitive information, illustrating clarity and accuracy. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of project management methodologies used for design workflows, including brief interpretation, concept development, feedback integration, and final delivery.

• Examples of how you have improved design processes or workflows to increase efficiency and quality.

• Documentation or examples of research and adherence to technical specifications for various digital platforms (e.g., social media aspect ratios, video codecs).

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the public sector context and emphasis on sensitive information, the portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's approach to accuracy, compliance, and ethical considerations in design. The "reason for application" section must be treated as a primary portfolio element for shortlisting.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £41,856.00 to £47,505.00 per annum (pro-rata for part-time, though this role is full-time).

Benefits:

• Incremental salary increases within the band, reflecting career progression and commitment.

• Permanent, full-time contract offering job security.

• Standard Monday-Friday working pattern, promoting work-life balance.

• Opportunity to contribute to public service and make a tangible impact within a vital organization.

• Access to relevant training and development opportunities within the police force.

• Potential for professional development in areas like internal communications and public sector marketing.

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (37 hours per week, assuming standard UK public sector hours). No weekend or evening working is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a mid-level motion graphics role in the UK public sector. The incremental increases are a standard public sector benefit, rewarding loyalty and performance. The role is full-time, with a predictable schedule, which is attractive for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Public Sector, specifically Law Enforcement (Policing).

Company Size: Large (Essex Police and Kent Police are significant regional forces, employing thousands of individuals). This means the role operates within a structured, established organizational framework.

Founded: Kent Police was established in 1857, and Essex Police in 1840. These are long-standing institutions with established operational procedures and a deep history.

Team Structure:

• The Motion Graphic Designer will be part of the Corporate Communications team, working closely with the Digital Communications Team.

• This team collaborates with Internal Communications, Marketing, and the Press Office, indicating a cross-functional, integrated approach to communication.

• The reporting structure will likely involve a Head of Digital Communications or a similar senior role within Corporate Communications. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven communication to understand audience reception and campaign effectiveness, particularly for social media.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical for managing project pipelines and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality assets.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely encouraged, especially in content creation for high-volume platforms like social media.

• Adherence to strict brand guidelines, accessibility, and legal standards is a core operational methodology.

Company Website: https://www.kent.police.uk/ and https://www.essex.police.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a police force means operating within a highly regulated and structured environment. The culture values precision, public service, and adherence to protocols. Collaboration is key, as communication needs to be consistent across various departments and public-facing channels.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Specialist. This role is for an experienced individual who can work independently, manage projects, and provide expert advice. It's not an entry-level position but offers a platform for further specialization within public sector communications.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Corporate Communications or Digital Communications team leadership. Collaboration will be broad, involving various departments and potentially senior officers, offering exposure to high-level decision-making.

Operations Impact: The Motion Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the public's perception of Kent Police, aids in disseminating vital public safety information, and supports internal communication efforts. Effective visual communication can improve engagement, understanding, and trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific animation techniques, video editing, data visualization, and potentially emerging digital communication tools.

• Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in public sector visual communications, contributing to strategic planning for campaigns.

• Leadership Potential: With proven success and experience, opportunities may arise for project leadership within the communications team or to mentor junior designers.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Gaining experience in internal communications, marketing, and press relations within a large public sector organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Motion Graphic Designer," the responsibilities suggest a broader digital communications specialist role. Growth within this specific role might involve taking on more complex projects or leading smaller initiatives, while broader growth could lead to roles like Senior Designer, Communications Manager, or Digital Media Lead.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site role, likely based within a police headquarters or a dedicated communications hub in Maidstone. This environment will be professional and structured, typical of public sector offices.

Office Location(s): Maidstone, Kent. This location offers access to local amenities and transport links within the South East of England.

Workspace Context:

• A professional office environment with standard office amenities.

• Access to necessary design software and hardware (likely high-spec workstations).

• Opportunities for collaboration and brainstorming with colleagues in the Digital Communications, Corporate Communications, and other related teams.

• A work environment that requires adherence to security protocols and professional conduct expected within law enforcement.

Work Schedule: A predictable Monday-Friday schedule, designed to facilitate a good work-life balance. The role is full-time, requiring dedication during core business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a need for collaboration and access to internal resources that might not be fully replicable remotely. The environment will be professional and security-conscious, reflecting the nature of police work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Review: Shortlisting will be based solely on the "reason for application" section, requiring detailed evidence of skills and experience against the job criteria. CVs and attachments are not considered for shortlisting.

• First Interview: Likely a discussion focused on technical skills, experience, and portfolio review. Candidates will be expected to walk through examples of their work, explaining their process and outcomes.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a practical design task or a more in-depth discussion on strategic thinking, problem-solving, and how the candidate would approach specific challenges within the police context.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the role and the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Tailor to the Prompt: Structure your "reason for application" to directly address each requirement listed in the advert and job description. Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements where possible.

• Showcase Range: Include examples of motion graphics, video editing, and infographics, demonstrating versatility.

• Highlight Process: For each key project, explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, challenges faced, and the final impact or outcome.

• Address Sensitive Content: If possible, include examples of how you've handled sensitive or complex information in a clear and appropriate manner.

• Brand Compliance: Demonstrate your understanding of brand guidelines and how you’ve applied them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design task that might involve creating a short animation or infographic from a brief related to police work or public safety messaging.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, focusing on how your work supports communication objectives.

• Research current trends in social media content and public sector communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The strict instruction regarding the "reason for application" section is critical. Applicants must treat this as their primary application document and portfolio element, providing detailed, evidence-based responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud:

  • After Effects (Core for motion graphics)
  • Premiere Pro (Core for video editing)
  • Photoshop (Image editing, asset creation)
  • Illustrator (Vector graphics, logos, icons)

• Project Management Software: Likely an internal system or standard tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira, depending on team workflow.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Social media analytics platforms (e.g., native platform insights for Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn) to track content performance.

• Potentially internal reporting tools for campaign effectiveness. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but an understanding of how content is distributed through various channels managed by marketing or digital teams would be beneficial.

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) for web publishing could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite for motion graphics and video. Familiarity with analytics is crucial for understanding content performance and iterating on designs for better engagement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Public Service: A commitment to serving the community and upholding the law.

• Integrity & Honesty: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all communications.

• Impartiality: Ensuring communications are fair, accurate, and unbiased.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Delivering high-quality work within constraints and achieving communication objectives.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders across the organization.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with frequent interaction between the Digital Communications Team, Corporate Communications, Marketing, and the Press Office.

• Expectation of clear, concise communication and a willingness to provide and receive constructive feedback.

• A structured approach to feedback and project approvals, aligned with public sector protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of a police force are foundational. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and alignment with these values, particularly regarding integrity, public trust, and impartiality in their communication work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: The need to produce engaging, creative content while strictly adhering to legal, accessibility, and brand guidelines.

• Handling Sensitive Information: Designing visuals that accurately and sensitively represent complex or potentially controversial police matters.

• Managing Competing Deadlines: Juggling multiple projects with varying priorities from different departments.

• Evolving Digital Landscape: Staying current with social media trends and platform changes to ensure content remains effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Animation/Video Techniques: Access to training to master new features in Adobe software or explore new animation styles.

• Public Sector Communications: Deepening understanding of communication strategies specific to law enforcement and public safety.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learning about the operational needs and communication challenges of other departments within the police force.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior communications professionals within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be translating the nuances and sensitivities of policing into accessible visual content. Candidates who can demonstrate adaptability and a problem-solving mindset will thrive.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to create a motion graphic or video for a complex or sensitive topic. How did you ensure accuracy and appropriate tone?"

• "How would you approach designing a social media campaign to explain a new policing initiative or address a public safety concern?"

• "Walk us through your process for managing feedback from multiple stakeholders on a single design project." Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Kent Police and Essex Police specifically, compared to other organizations?"

• "How do you see your skills contributing to the mission of a public service organization like ours?"

• "How do you stay updated on design trends and incorporate them into your work while maintaining brand consistency?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each portfolio piece, emphasize the objective, your role, the solution, and the outcome (e.g., increased engagement, clearer understanding).

• Demonstrate Technical Skill: Be ready to discuss your software choices and techniques used.

• Address the "Why": Explain the rationale behind your design decisions, linking them to communication goals and audience needs.

• Prepare for the "Reason for Application" Deep Dive: Be ready to elaborate on every point made in your written application response.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their work in the context of public service, security, and community engagement. The ability to articulate strategic thinking behind design choices will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the police-jobs.org.uk portal.

• Craft a compelling "Reason for Application": This is your primary tool for shortlisting. Dedicate significant time to detailing your relevant experience, skills, and abilities, directly mapping them to the requirements in the job advert and description. Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements.

• Curate Your Digital Portfolio: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and easily accessible. Prepare to link to it if requested, and be ready to present specific pieces during interviews.

• Prepare for Interview Scenarios: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and how you handle feedback. Research Kent Police and Essex Police's current communication efforts and social media presence.

• Understand the Public Sector Context: Familiarize yourself with the unique challenges and responsibilities of working within law enforcement and the public 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.