Senior Freelance Designer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Senior Freelance Designer
Company: WPP Production
Location: New York, NY USA
Job Type: Freelance/Contract (CONTRACTOR)
Category: Creative & Design / Marketing Operations
Date Posted: 2026-06-10T16:07:24
Experience Level: Mid-Level to Senior (5+ years)
Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in office)
🚀 Role Summary
-
This role focuses on executing visually compelling B2B design solutions across diverse channels, including digital, print, motion, and video content, to enhance client experience and communicate brand value.
-
Drive creative vision from ideation through storyboarding, developing innovative concepts for campaigns that align with strategic goals and resonate with target audiences.
-
Adapt campaign creative for various placements while meticulously maintaining a cohesive and strong brand image.
-
Collaborate effectively with WPP creative partners, offshore production teams, and client teams to deliver design elements that are on-brand and meet technical specifications.
-
Manage multiple projects simultaneously, expertly incorporating feedback from various stakeholders within a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Senior Freelance Designer," the description also mentions "Mid-Level – Senior Designer," indicating a broader range of experience is welcome. The role is explicitly freelance/contract, which is a key differentiator for candidates. The hybrid work model, with a stated expectation of approximately four days in the office, is also a critical detail for remote work seekers.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
-
Execute visually compelling B2B design solutions across diverse channels (digital, print, motion, and video content) to clearly communicate the brand's value proposition and enhance the client experience.
-
Drive the creative vision for projects from ideation through storyboarding, developing innovative concepts for campaigns across various media that align with strategic goals and deeply resonate with target audiences.
-
Adapt campaign creative for different placements while maintaining a cohesive brand image and brand integrity.
-
Demonstrate a deep understanding and proficiency in working within established design systems and brand guidelines to ensure consistency and efficiency.
-
Collaborate with WPP creative partners, offshore production teams, and client teams to deliver design elements on brand and to specification, ensuring seamless project execution.
-
Manage multiple projects simultaneously, incorporating feedback from various stakeholders while maintaining project timelines and quality standards.
-
Serve as the primary creative representative for the company on the design front, supporting a top-tier global professional services organization client.
-
Maintain a superior knowledge of the latest design technology and software, proactively learning new programs as they are released to stay at the forefront of creative innovation.
-
Present ideas and design concepts in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner to internal teams and client stakeholders.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and strategic adaptation, emphasizing the need for a designer who can both conceptualize and meticulously execute within established brand frameworks. The mention of "offshore production teams" suggests a need for clear communication and workflow management skills across different geographical locations and time zones.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio and relevant experience in design are paramount. A degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is often preferred in agency environments.
Experience: 5+ years of design experience in an agency setting, working with significant brands, and possessing a blend of creative conceptualization and light production skills. Comprehensive B2B marketing and communications experience is essential, spanning digital, print, and both original content creation and adaptation.
Required Skills:
-
Proficiency in Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is non-negotiable.
-
Demonstrated expertise in Figma for design and prototyping.
-
Proven experience in comprehensive B2B marketing and communications design, covering digital, print, and content adaptation.
-
Strong understanding and practical application of brand guidelines and design systems.
-
Ability to balance original conceptual ideas with creative expansion and adaptation.
-
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design rationale clearly and concisely.
-
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management, especially when juggling multiple projects.
-
Experience collaborating with offshore production teams and managing feedback from diverse stakeholders.
-
A proactive, solutions-oriented, and positive attitude with a curious streak.
-
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while thriving in a team environment. Preferred Skills:
-
Experience with motion graphics and video content creation/editing.
-
Familiarity with social media platforms and creating content tailored for these channels.
-
Understanding of AI-driven marketing concepts and how design can support them.
-
Experience working with global professional services organizations.
-
Knowledge of emerging design technologies and trends.
📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong technical foundation in industry-standard design software (Adobe Suite, Figma) coupled with practical experience in B2B environments and brand adherence. The "portfolio that wows" requirement underscores the critical importance of a visual demonstration of skills. The mention of "social media native" suggests an understanding of current digital communication trends.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
A diverse portfolio showcasing a strong ability to balance original conceptual ideas with the strict adherence to brand guidelines.
-
Examples demonstrating experience in adapting campaign creative for various placements and channels (digital, print, motion, video).
-
Case studies illustrating the application of design systems and integrated digital design principles.
-
Work samples that highlight visual communication for B2B audiences and professional services.
-
Evidence of strong storytelling through design, showcasing the ability to convey value propositions effectively. Process Documentation:
-
While not explicitly stated as a requirement for submission, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, including:
-
Workflow for concept development and ideation.
-
Methods for adapting creative assets across different platforms and formats.
-
Strategies for incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders and offshore teams.
-
How they ensure brand consistency and adherence to design systems throughout the project lifecycle.
-
📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is heavily on the portfolio as a demonstration of skills and process. Candidates should curate their portfolios to specifically highlight B2B design, brand guideline adherence, and adaptability across various media, as these are core to the role's responsibilities.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: As a freelance/contract role, compensation is likely to be structured as an hourly rate or a project-based fee. Based on the "Senior" designation, 5+ years of experience, and the New York City location (a high cost-of-living area), an estimated freelance hourly rate could range from $50 to $90 USD. This is a benchmark and may vary based on the specific project scope, WPP's internal rates, and the candidate's negotiation.
Benefits:
-
As a freelance contractor, traditional employee benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off) are typically not provided.
-
Potential for ongoing freelance projects with WPP Production, offering continuous work opportunities.
-
Opportunity to work with a leading global production company and its prestigious clients.
-
Exposure to cutting-edge technology and AI-driven marketing initiatives.
-
Professional development through working on diverse and large-scale projects.
Working Hours: The role is described as hybrid, with teams in the office approximately four days a week. Standard full-time working hours are generally expected, likely around 40 hours per week, though freelance arrangements can offer some flexibility.
📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry standards for senior freelance designers in NYC, considering the agency environment and the nature of contract work. It's crucial for candidates to understand that benefits are generally not included in freelance roles unless specifically negotiated.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Advertising, Marketing & Media Production, Professional Services Support. WPP Production is part of WPP, a global leader in marketing and communications services.
Company Size: WPP is a very large global organization. WPP Production, as a unified global production company within WPP, likely operates with a significant global footprint, though specific team sizes for this freelance role are not detailed. The description emphasizes "world-class human craft with next generation technology" and "borderless collaboration."
Founded: WPP was founded in 1970. WPP Production is presented as a more recent unified entity.
Team Structure:
-
The designer will be part of WPP Production, supporting a specific client (a top-tier global professional services organization).
-
Collaboration will occur with WPP creative partners, offshore production teams, and client teams.
-
This suggests a matrixed or project-based team structure, common in agency and production environments. Methodology:
-
Emphasis on "originate, design, and deliver multi-channel content systems at scale."
-
Focus on "human craft with next generation technology" and "AI driven marketing world."
-
"Borderless collaboration" and "deep craft expertise" are core tenets.
-
The role requires balancing "original conceptual ideas and creative expansion" within established brand guidelines.
Company Website: https://www.wppproduction.com/ and https://www.wpp.com/
📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is positioned as global, collaborative, and technologically advanced, blending human creativity with AI and next-gen tools. The "freelance" aspect means the candidate will integrate into existing teams and workflows rather than being part of a solely WPP Production-centric team for this specific client project.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as "Mid-Level – Senior," requiring 5+ years of experience. It offers an opportunity to work on high-profile B2B clients and contribute to large-scale content production.
Reporting Structure: The designer will collaborate with WPP creative partners, offshore production teams, and client teams. They will likely report to a Creative Director or Design Lead within the WPP Production structure for this client project.
Operations Impact: The designer's work will directly impact the visual communication and brand perception of a major global professional services organization. Their contributions are crucial for creating compelling B2B marketing materials that drive client engagement and support strategic business goals.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Skill Expansion: Opportunity to gain experience with a high-tier global client and work on diverse deliverables across digital, print, and motion.
-
Industry Exposure: Deepen understanding of B2B marketing, content production at scale, and the integration of AI in creative workflows.
-
Networking: Build relationships with WPP creative partners, production teams, and client representatives.
-
Future Freelance Engagements: Successful performance can lead to further freelance opportunities within WPP Production and with other WPP clients.
📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a freelance role, it offers significant opportunities for skill development and exposure to high-caliber work. Growth is primarily defined by project scope, client exposure, and the potential for repeat engagements rather than a traditional internal promotion path.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid. The company promotes a hybrid working model, with teams in the office around four days a week. This suggests a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.
Office Location(s): New York, NY, USA. The specific office location within New York is not detailed, but it will be a WPP Production or WPP office facilitating hybrid work.
Workspace Context:
-
Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and connection, implying an office environment conducive to teamwork and brainstorming.
-
Technology Integration: Expect access to industry-standard design software and potentially advanced production technologies used by WPP Production.
-
Cross-functional Interaction: Opportunities to interact with various internal WPP teams (creative, production) and external client teams.
Work Schedule: While the core expectation is a hybrid model with office presence, freelance roles can sometimes offer more flexibility in daily hours, dependent on project deadlines and team needs. A standard 40-hour work week is typical.
📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key aspect of the work environment. Candidates should be prepared for a mix of in-office collaboration and remote work, with the expectation of being present in the New York office for a significant portion of the week.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio by a recruiter or hiring manager.
-
Portfolio Review: A critical stage where candidates will present their work, focusing on B2B design, brand adherence, and conceptual thinking. Be prepared to discuss specific projects in detail.
-
Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or a more in-depth discussion of technical skills with Adobe Suite and Figma.
-
Cultural Fit/Team Interview: Discussion around collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and experience working with offshore teams and diverse stakeholders.
-
Client Interaction (Potentially): Depending on the stage, there might be an opportunity to discuss the role with a client representative.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Curate for B2B: Select projects that specifically showcase experience with B2B clients and professional services.
-
Highlight Brand Adherence: Include examples where you successfully worked within strict brand guidelines and design systems.
-
Demonstrate Adaptability: Show how you adapted creative assets for different channels and placements.
-
Explain Your Process: Be ready to walk through your design process for 2-3 key projects, explaining your problem-solving approach and how you incorporated feedback.
-
Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or outcomes related to your design work (e.g., increased engagement, successful campaign execution).
-
Showcase Conceptual Thinking: Include examples of original concepts and how they were developed.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Be prepared for a potential design challenge that might involve adapting existing creative or developing a concept based on a brief.
-
Practice articulating your thought process and design decisions clearly and concisely.
-
Understand the client is a "top-tier global professional services organization" – research their brand and industry to inform any challenge responses.
📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. Candidates should prepare a digital portfolio that is easily accessible and clearly demonstrates their capabilities relevant to the specific requirements of this role, particularly B2B design and brand guideline execution.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign (essential).
-
Figma: For design, prototyping, and collaboration (essential).
-
Motion Graphics Software: Potentially After Effects, for motion and video content.
-
Video Editing Software: Potentially Premiere Pro or similar, for video content.
Analytics & Reporting: While not a direct requirement for the designer, understanding how design impacts metrics (e.g., engagement on digital assets) is beneficial. Familiarity with analytics platforms may be a plus.
CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the designer's core tasks, but awareness of how marketing automation platforms are used in B2B contexts could be useful.
📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are explicit: Adobe Suite and Figma. Any additional experience with motion graphics or video editing software will be a strong advantage given the mention of "motion and video content" as deliverables.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Craft Excellence: Emphasis on "world-class human craft" and high-quality design execution.
-
Innovation: Encouragement to use "next generation technology" and AI to amplify creativity.
-
Collaboration: "Borderless collaboration" is a key aspect, requiring strong teamwork with diverse global teams.
-
Efficiency: Delivering "multi-channel content systems at scale" implies a need for efficient processes and workflows.
-
Client Focus: Supporting a "top-tier global professional services organization" means a strong orientation towards client needs and brand representation.
Collaboration Style:
-
Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with WPP creative partners, offshore production teams, and client teams.
-
Feedback Incorporation: Must be adept at receiving and integrating feedback from various stakeholders.
-
Global Mindset: Experience working with and communicating effectively with offshore teams is explicitly mentioned.
📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values both high-quality creative output and efficient, collaborative execution, particularly across global teams. Candidates who are adaptable, communicative, and embrace technology will likely thrive.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Balancing Creativity with Brand Rigidity: Effectively translating creative vision within the constraints of established brand guidelines and design systems.
-
Managing Stakeholder Feedback: Navigating and incorporating feedback from multiple sources (client, WPP internal, offshore teams) while maintaining design integrity.
-
Global Collaboration: Ensuring seamless communication and consistent quality when working with offshore production teams across different time zones.
-
Pace and Volume: Handling multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced agency/production environment.
-
Staying Current: Continuously learning and adapting to new design technologies and AI tools.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Client Exposure: Working with a "top-tier global professional services organization" provides invaluable experience and portfolio enhancement.
-
Global Production Scale: Gaining insight into how large-scale, multi-channel content systems are produced globally.
-
Technology Integration: Exposure to AI and next-generation production tools within WPP's ecosystem.
-
Networking: Building connections within the WPP network and with client-side teams.
📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of senior roles in large agencies, focusing on stakeholder management, execution within constraints, and global collaboration. The growth opportunities are primarily tied to project experience and exposure.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe a time you had to adapt a strong creative concept to fit within strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on balancing creativity and adherence)
-
"How do you manage feedback from multiple stakeholders, especially when the feedback is conflicting or requires significant revisions?" (Highlight communication and problem-solving skills)
-
"Walk us through your process for adapting campaign creative for different placements (e.g., a digital banner vs. a print ad). How do you ensure brand consistency?" (Demonstrate workflow and attention to detail)
-
"Describe your experience working with offshore teams. What are the keys to successful collaboration?" (Showcase communication and cross-cultural awareness)
-
"How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and technologies, particularly AI tools in creative production?" (Emphasize continuous learning and innovation) Company & Culture Questions:
-
"What appeals to you about working with WPP Production and supporting a global professional services client?" (Show genuine interest in the company and client)
-
"How does your design philosophy align with our emphasis on 'world-class human craft with next generation technology'?" (Connect your approach to their values)
-
"Describe your ideal hybrid work environment and how you contribute to a collaborative team culture." (Address the hybrid model and teamwork) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Storytelling: For each project, tell a story: the problem, your approach, your solution, and the impact.
-
Focus on B2B and Brand: Clearly articulate how your work met B2B objectives and stayed true to brand guidelines.
-
Highlight Adaptation: Showcase examples where you successfully adapted creative for various channels.
-
Process Clarity: Walk through your design process for 2-3 key projects, explaining your rationale and technical choices.
-
Conciseness: Be prepared to present your strongest work efficiently, respecting the interviewer's time.
📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating practical application of skills, problem-solving abilities, and a clear understanding of the role's demands, particularly concerning client work, brand adherence, and collaboration.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this Senior Freelance Designer position:
-
Submit your application through the provided link on the WPP Production careers page.
-
Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features B2B design projects, examples of working within strict brand guidelines, and adaptations of creative across multiple channels (digital, print, motion). Highlight projects that demonstrate conceptual thinking and problem-solving.
-
Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your 5+ years of agency experience, proficiency in Adobe Suite and Figma, and specific experience with B2B marketing, content adaptation, and working with global teams. Use keywords from the job description.
-
Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your design process, explain your creative decisions, and discuss your experience with stakeholders and offshore teams during interviews. Practice presenting your portfolio with a focus on storytelling and impact.
-
Research WPP Production and WPP: Understand their mission, values, and the type of clients they serve, particularly in the professional services sector, to demonstrate your alignment 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.
Application Requirements
Requires 5+ years of agency experience working with major brands and proficiency in Adobe Suite and Figma. Candidates must possess a strong portfolio demonstrating the ability to balance original conceptual ideas with strict adherence to brand guidelines.