Graphic Design Manager

C2's client, a mission-driven organization that provides marketing, operations, and customer experience support for a national industry association. Known for its fast-paced, purpose-driven, and genuinely engaging culture, the organization has been recognized as #25 on The Wall Street Journal list, featured in Newsweek (2023 & 2024), and named to the Inc. 5000 for 14 consecutive years.Most importantly, the work of these organizations has a real impact. They help Americans protect themselves, their families, and their freedoms every day.They seek an innovative and visionary Graphic Design Manager who can lead a high-performing creative team, elevate visual storytelling, and deliver consistent, high-impact brand experiences, blending strong creative leadership with expertise in modern design systems and emerging technologies, including AI-assisted design tools.The ideal candidate aligns philosophically with the organizations' missions. This role works closely with partners like gun manufacturers and shooting ranges, and supports members through targeted campaign outreach and community building. Candidates who are personally comfortable with and supportive of responsible firearm ownership will thrive in this role.Start Date: ASAPDuration: Direct HireLocation: West Bend, WI (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)Compensation: Competitive base salary + bonus eligibilityBenefits: 23 days PTO + 8 company holidays + volunteer day. Robust Insurance Coverage Options: Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, FSA, Life Insurance, Short- & Long-Term Disability.Technology: TBDJob DescriptionThe Graphic Design Manager will lead and evolve the in-house creative team while shaping the visual expression of the organization’s brands across digital, print, and emerging media. This role requires a forward-thinking design leader who can merge creativity with technology while maintaining consistency across all brand touchpoints.You will guide a team of designers to produce compelling visual storytelling that enhances member experiences, strengthens brand identity, and supports strategic marketing initiatives. This role also plays a key part in defining design standards, implementing scalable systems, and introducing modern creative workflows, including AI-powered tools.Success in this position requires a balance of hands-on creative direction, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration with marketing, product, and executive stakeholders.Responsibilities:Creative Leadership & Art DirectionImplement and manage the visual evolution of the client's brands across marketing, digital platforms, and member experiencesProvide art and creative input for major campaigns, product launches, and brand initiativesEnsure consistent and compelling brand expression across all channels including web, video, social media, advertising, and printTranslate strategic business goals into powerful visual storytelling and design solutionsDesign Strategy & InnovationChampion modern design practices, incorporating emerging technologies such as AI-powered design tools, generative imagery, and automated creative workflowsLead the development of scalable digital design systems and brand standards to ensure efficiency and consistencyIdentify opportunities to innovate in visual communication, user experience, and creative production processesStay ahead of industry trends in digital design, creative technology, brand design, and visual storytellingDigital & Experience DesignGuide the design of high-performing digital marketing assets, website experiences, and digital productsCollaborate with product, marketing, and engineering teams to improve user experience, conversion, and engagement across digital channelsEnsure design solutions are optimized for modern platforms including web, mobile, social, and video-first environmentsTeam Leadership & DevelopmentManage, mentor, and develop a team of designers and graphic artistsProvide clear creative direction, constructive feedback, and growth opportunities for team membersFoster a collaborative, innovative, and high-performance creative cultureChampion professional development in areas such as AI design tools, motion graphics, digital design, and art directionCreative Operations & Project ManagementOversee design project prioritization, workflow management, and resource allocationEnsure projects are delivered on time, on brand, and aligned with strategic objectivesContinuously improve creative production processes to increase speed, quality, and scalabilityCoordinate with internal stakeholders and external partners including photographers, printers, and creative vendorsCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with marketing, brand, product, and executive leadership to align creative strategy with business objectivesPresent creative concepts, design strategies, and improvement opportunities to senior leadershipInfluence cross-functional teams through strong communication, storytelling, and visual thinkingQualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or related field (or equivalent experience)5+ years of professional design experience across brand, digital, and marketing2+ years of experience managing or mentoring creative teamsStrong portfolio showcasing brand design, digital work, and campaign executionAdvanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and digital design tools (e.g., Figma)Familiarity with AI-powered creative tools, generative design technologies, and modern creative workflowsStrong understanding of digital marketing, UX principles, and visual storytellingExcellent communication, presentation, and strategic thinking skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environmentCommitment to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of design innovationNot your type of gig, but know someone who would be interested? Refer a qualified candidate, and if they get the job, you get a signing bonus! (Make sure they mention your name as their referral source so you get your well-deserved credit!)All candidates must be located and authorized to work in the United States. C2 does not sponsor work visas. No C2C.