Motion Graphics Designer, Sport

Motion Graphics Designer, Sport

Temporary 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create engaging motion graphics and animations that simplify complex sports stories.
  • Company: Join the Guardian, a diverse and inclusive global organisation committed to fearless journalism.
  • Benefits: Enjoy six weeks annual leave, generous pension contributions, and wellness support.
  • Other info: Hybrid work environment with excellent career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in sports journalism while developing your creative skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in motion graphics, strong storytelling skills, and a passion for sports.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

Join our team at the Guardian and be a part of a diverse and inclusive global organisation that delivers fearless, investigative journalism, and holds power to account. Our team of award-winning journalists, cutting-edge commercial professionals, and industry-leading digital experts are committed to making a difference and represent a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. We offer a challenging and exciting environment for career development, with a focus on training, growth and fostering an inclusive culture.

We are seeking a motion graphic designer to design motion graphics and animation which explain complex stories and ideas and engage our audiences, with a particular focus on sport. The stories you'll work on could span a wide range of subjects in sport journalism. Recent projects include videos that explain historic rivalry between national teams, untouchable power at the top of football's governing body, and uncover the societal impacts of massive sport events. Working alongside journalists, producers and designers, you'll use visual journalism to make complex reporting accessible, compelling and memorable for millions of readers.

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract or internal staff secondment, on a 9-day fortnight working pattern (with regular weekend working).

About the role
  • Design motion graphics and animation, primarily for the Guardian's sport social video team for use in videos published on and off-platform, and occasionally for other editorial desks as required.
  • Working with members of the Guardian's Sport and video teams, and as directed by the executive producer for sport, to create bespoke audience-focused motion graphics and explanatory animations to a consistently high standard for one-off video productions across all areas of our digital journalism.
  • Create graphics templates for video producers to use in their productions, and maintain our portfolio of existing brand graphics and template assets.
  • Use imagination and flair to maintain and develop consistent high standards of design, Guardian style and brand and visual reporting, and work closely with the design department.
  • Liaise with video producers, multimedia editors, sport editors and journalists, social video producers, art directors, designers, developers and other specialists at the Guardian.
About you
  • Demonstrable professional experience of creating high quality motion graphics and animation, translating ideas into engaging, dynamic, visual storytelling with strong use of typography, colour, composition and brand.
  • Demonstrable interest in visualising data and explanatory design, and understanding of how to use animation/motion to simplify complex topics.
  • Experience developing new video formats, styles and guidelines, such as explainers, news video and documentaries.
  • Ideally have an interest in/knowledge of sport.
  • Experience of working collaboratively with video producers, designers and editors.
  • Comfortable in the practical aspects of video production; from concept, to design, to animation, post-production and understanding how to incorporate sound and music.
  • Experience working in a newsroom is an advantage.
  • Ideally, you'll have a demonstrable ability to bring a diverse perspective to this role.

We actively encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in the UK media. We operate in a hybrid environment working at least 3 days a week from our offices in Kings Cross.

The salary for this NUJ position starts from £47,731 with a package commensurate with the skills, level of experience and responsibilities of the role.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 18th August 2026.

Benefits at the Guardian
  • You'll have six weeks of annual leave per year (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase an additional 5 days.
  • Our pension scheme is generous; if you contribute 5% then we will contribute 8-12% (depending on your age).
  • We believe in giving back, which is why employees are given 2 volunteering days annually and the option of payroll giving.
  • Season ticket loans are also available.
  • You are entitled to life cover, income protection, and eye tests. You can also opt in to dental insurance.
  • We have enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave policies in place.
  • We also support our employees by offering an IVF, menopause, baby loss, and trans equality policy.
Culture and wellbeing

We want everyone to feel like they belong at the Guardian and we champion diversity of thought. Our various employee forums provide a platform to use their voice to foster an inclusive workplace. We became the first major media organisation to achieve B Corp status.

We offer tools to help you prioritise your wellbeing including access to our employee benefits platform which provides tailored support for health and wellbeing. In addition, we also offer free yoga and pilates classes. These run alongside our corporate gym membership and cycle to work scheme. Our canteen has views overlooking the Regents Canal and caters for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Learning and development

We encourage personal and professional growth. Employees have access to a broad range of tools and solutions, and we are happy to support the pursuit of professional qualifications through vocational courses and apprenticeships.

Motion Graphics Designer, Sport employer: Critical Playground LLC

Critical Playground LLC is an exceptional employer located in Wellingborough, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth, the company provides ample opportunities for professional development alongside competitive benefits such as 25 days of holiday and a matched pension scheme. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your contributions directly impact our creative projects and client relationships.

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Contact Details:

Critical Playground LLC Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Motion Graphics Designer, Sport

Get Your Portfolio Sparkling

For a temporary graphic design role, your portfolio is EVERYTHING! Make sure it showcases your best work, but also tailor it to include pieces that reflect the type of projects Critical Playground LLC might need. Consider creating a section dedicated to quick turnaround projects to highlight your ability to deliver under tight deadlines.

Tap into Local Creative Networks

Join local design groups or attend creative meetups in your area. These events are a goldmine for finding out about temporary opportunities. You might even meet someone from Critical Playground LLC or learn about upcoming gigs that aren't advertised online!

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Apply Early, Apply Often

Temporary roles can fill up fast, so don’t wait around! Check Critical Playground LLC’s careers page frequently and set up alerts if you can. If you see a position for a temporary graphic designer, jump on it! Remember, we’re here to support your journey, so use our website to help streamline your applications.

We think you need these skills to ace Motion Graphics Designer, Sport

Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Time Management
Flexibility
Organizational Skills
Project Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Best Work:For a graphic design role like Motion Graphics Designer, Sport at Critical Playground LLC, your portfolio is everything! Make sure to include a variety of your designs that highlight your skills and creativity. Tailor it to reflect the style that resonates with Critical Playground LLC’s brand. Don’t forget to include any relevant temporary projects or collaborations – they show adaptability!

Emphasise Design Thinking:In your written application, focus on your design thinking process. Share how you approach a brief, from brainstorming to final execution. If you’ve taken any courses or received certifications related to graphic design, mention those too. This shows you're committed to the craft and eager to grow!

Tailor Your CV for Design:When crafting your CV for a temporary role, highlight specific design software you're proficient in – think Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, etc. Be sure to include any freelance work or internships that demonstrate your relevant skills, as showcasing project diversity can make you stand out in a short-term role.

Express Your Availability:Since the role is temporary, it's crucial to mention your availability clearly in your cover letter. Let Critical Playground LLC know when you can start and how flexible you are with hours. Being upfront can help them see you as an ideal candidate who’s ready to jump right in!

How to prepare for a job interview at Critical Playground LLC

Showcase Your Portfolio

Let’s be honest, in graphic design, your portfolio is your magic wand! Make sure to curate a selection of your best work that aligns with the style and needs of Critical Playground LLC. Bring physical copies if possible or have a tablet ready to show off your designs in action.

Familiarise with Design Tools

Be prepared to chat about the design tools you’re comfortable with, like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma. As it’s a temporary role, demonstrating your flexibility with various tools can give you an edge—don’t forget to mention any previous projects where you've used these skills!

Understand the Brand's Aesthetic

Take a good look at Critical Playground LLC’s branding before the interview. Understanding their visual identity and being ready to discuss how you can contribute to or enhance it will not only show that you’re interested, but also give you plenty to talk about during the interview!

Highlight Your Adaptability

Since this is a temporary gig, make sure to emphasise your adaptability and ability to work under tight deadlines. Share examples from past experiences where you've jumped in on projects quickly and delivered quality work—a must-have in the fast-paced world of graphic design!