Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer

Company: POD Marketing

Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-06-24

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (with 30-day remote work policy)

🚀 Role Summary

• Deliver high-quality visual designs across print, digital, social media, websites, email marketing, and advertising campaigns to enhance client brands and marketing performance.

• Drive conversion optimization through data-informed creative assets and A/B testing initiatives for digital assets.

• Develop, document, and maintain departmental processes, workflows, best practices, and training materials to improve team efficiency and creative quality.

• Manage project scope, timelines, and deliverables for complex, high-value client projects, ensuring on-time and high-standard completion.

• Contribute creative expertise and market insights into product development discussions to innovate and expand service offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a Senior Graphic Designer position within a full-service marketing agency. The emphasis on "performance marketing & conversion optimization design," "department process & training development," and "product development support" indicates a strategic position that goes beyond pure execution, requiring a blend of creative talent, process ownership, and business acumen. The requirement for 2+ years in customer service/client management suggests a strong client-facing component.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute compelling visual designs for brands and marketing assets across various channels, including websites, social media, email campaigns, and advertising.

• Design and optimize landing pages, ad creative, and marketing collateral to support lead generation and conversion objectives.

• Maintain brand consistency across diverse marketing materials while adapting creative approaches for different target audiences and channels.

• Collaborate with media strategists and account managers to create data-informed creative assets that demonstrably improve marketing campaign performance and business outcomes.

• Design and implement creative concepts for A/B testing initiatives, analyzing results to continuously refine design effectiveness and drive measurable improvements.

• Take ownership of developing, documenting, testing, and updating departmental processes, workflows, and best practices for creative execution and production.

• Develop and deliver training programs to internal team members, ensuring consistent adherence to creative standards and operational processes.

• Manage project scope, timelines, priorities, and deliverables for complex client projects, ensuring timely and high-quality completion.

• Effectively communicate project status, creative rationale, and strategic recommendations to both internal teams and external clients.

• Oversee and manage external contractors, providing clear creative direction and reviewing deliverables to uphold quality standards.

• Actively participate in product development discussions, leveraging creative expertise and market insights to innovate and enhance company service offerings.

• Stay abreast of emerging visual design trends, user experience principles, and creative technologies to inform design strategies and elevate client work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on creative execution and operational excellence. The emphasis on "Performance Marketing & Conversion Optimization Design" and "Department Process & Training Development" suggests that candidates are expected to not only produce great creative but also to contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of the design department and its output.

கல் Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related field.

Experience: 5+ years of graphic design experience, with a preference for experience within a marketing agency or performance marketing environment. Additionally, 2+ years in customer service, hospitality, or client relationship management.

Required Skills:

• Legal authorization to work in Canada and residing in Calgary, AB.

• Advanced proficiency in design software including Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and Figma.

• Strong understanding of fundamental design principles: typography, color theory, layout, and current design trends.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, effectively prioritizing tasks to meet strict deadlines.

• Demonstrated capability to resolve complex design challenges with innovative and effective solutions.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate creative concepts and rationale clearly.

• Aptitude for both giving and receiving constructive criticism in a professional setting.

• Proven stress management techniques and ability to perform effectively under pressure.

• Ability to work autonomously and proactively seek information and clarification when needed. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge and experience in content creation.

• Experience with photography.

• Basic video editing skills.

• Familiarity with the Senior Living industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inclusion of "2+ years in customer service, hospitality, or client relationship management" alongside design experience is a unique requirement, suggesting that client interaction and service orientation are highly valued for this senior role. The emphasis on autonomy and asking questions also points to a self-starter mentality being crucial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of high-quality visual design work across print and digital media, including branding, websites, ad creative, and campaign assets.

• Include case studies demonstrating how design solutions directly contributed to marketing performance and conversion optimization (e.g., A/B test results, lead generation improvements).

• Highlight examples of systematic process development, workflow documentation, and the creation of training materials for design teams.

• Provide evidence of managing complex projects from concept to delivery, showcasing timeline management and scope control.

• Demonstrate experience in adapting creative strategies for different audiences and marketing channels, maintaining brand consistency. Process Documentation:

• Present examples of documented design processes, workflows, and best practices.

• Showcase contributions to the development or refinement of departmental operational procedures.

• Illustrate how you have supported the creation or delivery of training materials for design teams.

• Include samples of project management documentation or approaches used to manage complex creative deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Graphic Designer role with an emphasis on process development and client management, the portfolio should not only showcase creative output but also demonstrate strategic thinking, process ownership, and client communication abilities. Including examples of process documentation and training material development will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $100,000 CAD per year.

Benefits:

• Three weeks of paid vacation.

• Twelve flex days for added flexibility.

• A dedicated "Passion Day" for personal pursuits.

• Company-wide "MeMonday" initiative to prioritize mental health.

• Thirty-day remote work policy for flexibility in location.

• Twenty-six hours of paid volunteer time annually.

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Spending accounts for additional flexibility.

• Access to a mentorship program.

• Participation in an in-house leadership development program.

• DiSC communication training for enhanced interpersonal skills.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is typical for a Senior Graphic Designer in a major Canadian city like Calgary, considering the agency environment and the added responsibilities of process development and training. The benefits package is exceptionally generous, emphasizing work-life balance and employee well-being, which is a significant draw for talent in the creative industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing, Consulting, and HR Services. POD Marketing operates as a full-service agency, indicating a dynamic environment with diverse client needs across various sectors.

Company Size: The company culture is described as supportive and people-centric, with an emphasis on trust, growth, and mutual success. POD Marketing has received awards for being one of Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures, suggesting a strong, positive, and employee-focused environment.

Founded: While the founding date isn't specified, the company's recognition as a "Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures" award winner implies a sustained commitment to its values and a mature operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The design team is likely part of a larger creative department within the agency, collaborating with media strategists, content teams, and account managers.

• This Senior role suggests potential for leading or mentoring junior designers and contributing to departmental leadership discussions.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, with designers working closely with client teams and internal stakeholders to understand business objectives and performance goals. Methodology:

• Data-Informed Creative: Design decisions are influenced by marketing performance and A/B testing outcomes.

• Process-Oriented: Emphasis on developing, documenting, and maintaining departmental processes and best practices.

• Client-Centric: Focus on understanding client objectives and delivering solutions that contribute to measurable marketing outcomes.

• Collaborative Innovation: Encourages participation in product development discussions and leveraging market insights for service enhancement.

Company Website: https://podmarketinginc.com

📝 Enhancement Note: POD Marketing positions itself as a culture-driven organization that values its people as much as its clients. The "Most Admired Corporate Cultures" recognition is a significant indicator of a positive and employee-centric work environment, which is a key differentiator for attracting and retaining talent.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Graphic Designer. This level signifies a seasoned professional expected to handle complex projects, contribute strategically to process improvement, mentor junior team members, and possess strong client-facing communication skills. It bridges execution with operational oversight and strategic input.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Art Director, or Head of Design. They will also collaborate extensively with project managers, account managers, and marketing strategists.

Operations Impact: The role directly influences client brand perception, marketing campaign effectiveness, and lead generation/conversion rates through high-quality visual design. By improving departmental processes and contributing to service development, the designer also impacts the agency's overall efficiency, scalability, and competitive offering.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into Art Director or Creative Director roles, or to lead specific creative initiatives or client accounts.

• Process Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in creative operations, workflow optimization, and training development within the agency.

• Skill Expansion: Continued development in areas like content creation, photography, and video editing, as hinted in the "Nice-To-Have" section.

• Mentorship & Training: Formal opportunities through the company's mentorship program and the ability to develop and deliver training, enhancing leadership and communication skills.

• Strategic Contribution: Influence on new service offerings and product development provides exposure to broader business strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title, combined with responsibilities for process development and product contribution, suggests a career path that extends beyond pure design execution. Candidates looking for opportunities to shape operational workflows and contribute to strategic agency growth will find this role appealing.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job posting mentions a "downtown Calgary office" that is "bright, modern, and stocked with good coffee, snacks, and great people." This suggests a vibrant, professional, and collaborative office space designed to foster creativity and teamwork.

Office Location(s): 117 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B4. This central downtown location is likely accessible via public transport and surrounded by amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is described as having "great people" and a "collaborative, energetic" culture, indicating ample opportunities for interaction and knowledge sharing with colleagues.

• Operations Tools & Technology: While specific tools are listed in the "Tools & Technology Stack" section, the modern office environment implies access to up-to-date hardware and software necessary for design work.

• Team Interaction: Regular one-on-one check-ins, quarterly performance conversations, and a culture of continuous feedback facilitate ongoing interaction and support from management and peers.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with approximately 40 working hours per week. The company also offers a "thirty-day remote work policy" which provides flexibility for working remotely, suggesting a hybrid model where some days can be spent out of the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the office environment emphasizes not just the physical space but also the human element – "great people," "collaborative," and "energetic." This, combined with the flexible remote work policy and strong emphasis on culture, points to a company that prioritizes a positive and adaptable work experience for its employees.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Focus on resume, cover letter/video, and application questions, evaluating for attention to detail, voice, and alignment with company values.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be expected to present a portfolio showcasing design skills, process ownership, and impact on marketing outcomes. Proof of successful project management and client communication will be key.

• Skills-Based Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or case study to assess problem-solving abilities, creative thinking, and application of design principles in a practical scenario. This might involve optimizing an existing asset or developing creative for a hypothetical campaign.

• Cultural Fit & Team Interview: Discussions to assess alignment with POD Marketing's values, collaboration style, and ability to work effectively within a team and with clients. This may involve meeting with potential team members and leadership.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and confirm alignment with the role's strategic contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent the requirements of this Senior Graphic Designer role. Prioritize projects demonstrating brand development, performance marketing assets, and process improvement contributions.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's business objective, your role, the design process you followed, the challenges you faced, and the measurable results achieved (especially for conversion optimization). Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) effectively.

• Highlight Process & Impact: Explicitly include examples of how you've developed or improved design processes, documented workflows, or created training materials. Quantify the impact of your designs on campaign performance (e.g., "Increased click-through rates by X%," "Improved conversion rates by Y%").

• Showcase Client Interaction: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how you've managed client communications, presented creative concepts, and incorporated feedback.

• Tool Proficiency: Briefly mention the tools used (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Canva) within project descriptions to demonstrate technical capability.

• Presentation Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Be prepared to walk through it confidently and answer detailed questions about your design choices and methodologies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If given a design challenge, carefully read and understand the objectives, target audience, and any constraints.

• Process Focus: Be prepared to explain your design process, not just the final output. How did you approach the brief? What research did you do? How did you iterate?

• Data & Strategy: Think about how your design choices align with marketing objectives and conversion goals. If the challenge involves performance, consider how you would measure success.

• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a set timeframe, as real-world agency work often has tight deadlines.

• Articulate Rationale: Be ready to clearly explain the strategic reasoning behind your design decisions, including typography, color, imagery, and layout choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application instructions emphasize authenticity and attention to detail. For the portfolio, going beyond just showcasing aesthetics and demonstrating process ownership, client management, and measurable impact will be key differentiators for this senior-level role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency required for core design tasks (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Canva: Proficiency expected for broader accessibility and quick creation of various assets, especially for less complex projects or client self-service.

• Figma: Advanced proficiency required, indicating a strong emphasis on collaborative design, UI/UX for web and digital assets, and prototyping.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics) is implied by the need to analyze creative performance and A/B testing outcomes.

• Experience with A/B testing tools and methodologies for optimizing digital assets. CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly listed as primary tools for the designer, understanding how designs integrate with marketing automation platforms and CRMs may be beneficial for creating effective campaign assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma alongside Adobe Creative Suite highlights a strong emphasis on digital design, UI/UX principles, and collaborative workflows, which is becoming standard for senior designers in agency settings.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Trust & Support: The company fosters an environment where individuals feel trusted, supported, and accepted for who they are. This translates to psychological safety and encouragement for taking initiative.

• Growth & Success: POD Marketing is committed to employee development, providing resources for skill enhancement and career progression, aiming for mutual success between the individual and the company.

• Collaboration & Energy: The workplace is described as collaborative and energetic, suggesting a dynamic team environment where ideas are shared freely and work is approached with enthusiasm.

• Excellence & Innovation: As a full-service agency, there's an inherent drive for delivering high-quality work and innovative solutions for clients, which is reflected in the senior designer's role in product development and process improvement.

• Accountability & Drive: The company values drive, ambition, and passion, encouraging individuals to take ownership and proactively contribute to business challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers work closely with media strategists, content teams, account managers, and client teams to achieve unified marketing goals.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture of continuous feedback is in place, encouraging open communication and iterative improvement of both creative work and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: The emphasis on training development and a supportive culture implies active knowledge sharing and mentorship within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are deeply embedded in its culture, as evidenced by its awards and explicit statements. For a Senior Graphic Designer, demonstrating alignment with these values—especially trust, growth, collaboration, and a proactive, ambitious mindset—will be as important as technical skills.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Performance Metrics: A key challenge will be to consistently produce visually compelling creative that also demonstrably drives lead generation and conversion rates, requiring a data-informed approach.

• Process Ownership & Implementation: Taking responsibility for developing and maintaining departmental processes requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to influence adoption across the team.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders & Priorities: Juggling complex client projects, internal requests, and process improvement initiatives simultaneously will require excellent time management and communication skills.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: The fast-paced nature of digital marketing and design necessitates continuous learning to keep creative offerings fresh and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & UX Skills: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Figma, UI/UX design, and potentially explore motion graphics or advanced digital asset creation.

• Creative Operations & Management: Developing skills in workflow optimization, process documentation, and team training can lead to roles focused on creative operations management.

• Agency Growth & Strategy: Involvement in product development discussions and client strategy sessions offers exposure to the broader business and strategic planning.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential to attend industry events and pursue certifications relevant to design, marketing, or operations.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Formal mentorship programs and the opportunity to train others provide pathways for leadership development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique blend of creative execution and operational responsibility. The challenges are framed as opportunities for growth, particularly in areas of strategic design, process optimization, and leadership within a dynamic agency environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you developed a creative concept that significantly improved a client's marketing performance. What was your process, and how did you measure success?" (Focus on linking design to business outcomes, using the STAR method).

• "How would you approach developing and documenting a new workflow for creating social media ad assets to ensure brand consistency and efficiency across the team?" (Highlight process thinking, documentation skills, and collaboration approach).

• "Walk us through a complex design project you managed from start to finish. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them to meet deadlines and client expectations?" (Demonstrate project management, problem-solving, and client communication). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you drawn to POD Marketing's culture, particularly our emphasis on trust, support, and growth?" (Research the company's values and awards; articulate specific aspects that resonate with you).

• "How do you see your role contributing to our agency's mission of solving real business challenges for clients?" (Connect your skills and experience to the agency's broader goals).

• "Describe your experience with A/B testing creative assets. How do you incorporate performance data into your design process?" (Showcase analytical thinking and data-driven design approach). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with 1-2 flagship projects that best align with the role's requirements (performance, process). For each, clearly state the objective, your role, the solution, and the measurable results.

• Highlight Process & Tools: When discussing projects, explicitly mention your design process, how you used tools like Figma for collaboration, and any process improvements you implemented