Brand Design Manager | Greater, Inc. - 18780

Role Overview We are seeking a high-autonomy Brand Design Manager to shape and elevate the creative vision across all brand services. This is a "player-coach" role that perfectly blends strategic creative direction with hands-on execution. You will guide a multidisciplinary team of 3–4 designers through discovery, design, and delivery, ensuring creative excellence that aligns with both client goals and technical realities.

As a leader within our integrated NYC-based agency, you will oversee the development of cohesive design systems, mentor rising talent, and uphold rigorous standards for responsive design and innovation.

Creative Leadership & Execution

• →Brand Systems: Develop and refine branding best practices, logo systems, and comprehensive visual identity guidelines from concept to implementation.
• →Hands-on Design: Play an active role in all design stages, including print/digital layout, image editing, art direction, and presentation design.
• →Asset Oversight: Direct the creation of artwork, illustrations, and visual assets for web, UI, digital ads, and social content.
• →QA & Standards: Maintain an uncompromising eye for detail, performing rigorous quality assurance on your own work and the team’s work to ensure alignment, consistency, and zero typos.

Team Management & Mentorship

• →Direct Leadership: Manage and mentor a team of 3–4 (1 Designer, 1–2 Junior Designers, and 1 Motion/Illustrator).
• →Growth & Culture: Foster a collaborative culture through constructive, actionable critique and professional development support.
• →Project Momentum: Proactively identify roadblocks and keep projects moving forward, even while waiting for feedback.

Project & Process Management

• →Operational Excellence: Establish and maintain templates, grids, and documentation to improve design efficiency.
• →Task Management: Translate client briefs into clear, actionable tasks; manage scopes and budgets effectively.
• →Client Engagement: Communicate professionally with clients to clarify scope, present deliverables, and eventually grow into deeper relationship management.

Hard Skills (Technical)

• Experience: 5+ years of relevant experience in brand and/or graphic design with a strong portfolio.
• Figma-First: Expert-level proficiency in Figma (the primary design tool for the studio).
• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency in Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Design Fundamentals: Exceptional understanding of brand strategy, typography, color theory, and layout for both print and digital.
• Agency Experience: Ability to balance high-quality creative output with the speed and efficiency of a fast-paced agency environment.
• Bonus Skills: Proficiency in Adobe After Effects (motion) or experience with AI image generation tools.

Soft Skills (Competencies)

• High Autonomy: You are a self-starter who picks up a brief and runs with it independently without hand-holding.
• Communication: Strong verbal and visual communication skills for internal collaboration and client presentations.
• Natural Mentor: An investment in the growth and success of the people around you.
• Problem-Solver: A proactive approach to identifying what can progress in a project and prioritizing accordingly.

This position offers the unique opportunity to lead a growing, international creative team while remaining deeply connected to the craft of design. You won't just be managing spreadsheets; you will be the driving force behind the visual identities of diverse clients, backed by a highly collaborative NYC agency culture that values interactive rhythms and design innovation.