Publications and Design Manager in Colchester, Essex

Join Colchester Institute – Where Your Career Makes a Difference. At Colchester Institute, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. As one of the leading providers of education and training in the region, we are proud to offer a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking working environment.

Are you a creative leader with a passion for powerful design and compelling storytelling? Do you thrive on delivering high-quality publications that inspire, inform and influence? If so, Colchester Institute is looking for you.

We are seeking an experienced, imaginative and highly organised Publications and Design Manager to lead and manage all print, design, photography and print advertising activity across the College. This is a pivotal position within our Marketing team, responsible for graphic design, copy and content for on-brand publications and creative assets that support student recruitment, employer engagement and our wider college reputation.

You will create college publications and print advertising cycle, from writing clear project briefs and developing copy, through to design, photography, production and final sign-off. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence will ensure every output is consistent, creative and impactful.

Key outputs include:

• Annual prospectuses
• Flyers, posters and banners
• Print and online marketing materials
• Photography and creative assets for integrated campaigns

Leadership & Strategy

Managing a small, talented creative team, you will provide:

• Strategic planning and creative direction
• End-to-end project management
• Workload prioritisation and quality control
• Guidance and support to deliver high-volume, high-quality graphic design and photography

You will work closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation, building strong relationships to plan and deliver compelling content that meets both strategic objectives and operational needs.

About You

This role would suit an experienced and highly organised Graphic Designer ready with leadership experience. Most importantly, you will combine creativity with precision, ensuring every publication and designed marketing content reflects the quality, ambition and professionalism of Colchester Institute.

Essential Experience:

• Minimum 5 years' management experience within a creative, marketing, publications or communications environment, with a background in Graphic Design.
• Proven expertise in producing and managing printed publications (including prospectuses and brochures), overseeing design and photography functions, and working with external print suppliers.
• Outstanding copywriting and proof-reading skills, with extensive experience adapting creative content for both print and digital channels.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, able to manage complex schedules, competing deadlines and multiple stakeholders, including senior leaders and curriculum teams.
• A collaborative, detail-driven team player with strong editorial judgement, brand management expertise and advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.

Essential Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (grades 9-4/A*-C) or equivalent, including maths and English (English Language at grade 6/B)
• Degree in Graphic Design, relevant subject to the requirements of the role or relevant industry experience

If you're ready to lead creative excellence and make a visible impact across a dynamic and forward-thinking College, we'd love to hear from you. All applications will be assessed against the stated essential requirements, so please ensure your CV clearly demonstrates how you meet them.