At a Glance
- Tasks: Create engaging motion graphics for TikTok and Instagram, bringing stories to life visually.
- 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 opportunities for professional growth and a supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in digital journalism while developing your creative skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in motion graphics, animation, and collaboration with video producers is essential.
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 looking for a motion graphics designer to join our Social Platforms team. You will design motion graphics and animation for the Guardian's multimedia department, with a particular focus on TikTok and Instagram, to craft compelling visuals that explain complex stories and engage our audience. Examples include same-day news explainers, longer form social-first investigations, evergreen data analysis videos - as well as infographic headline cards and bespoke designed off-platform carousels.
This is a 12-month fixed-term contract or internal staff secondment.
About the roleWorking with members of the Guardian's video and social team, and as directed by the social platforms editor, to create bespoke audience-focused motion graphics and explanatory static cards, carousels and animations to a consistently high standard for productions across all areas of our digital journalism focusing on social media.
- Design graphics for the Guardian's social media team including, but not limited to, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube shorts.
- Create graphics templates for internal and external 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 & brand and visual reporting, and work closely with the design department.
- Liaise with video producers, multimedia editors, journalists, social video producers, art directors, designers, developers and other specialists at the Guardian.
- Work on interactive journalism projects with the visuals team, as required.
Demonstrable professional experience of creating high quality motion graphics, animation and static design, translating ideas into engaging, dynamic, visual storytelling with strong use of typography, colour, composition and brand.
- Ideally, you will have a strong understanding of Illustrator, After Effects, Photoshop, Figma and Premiere Pro.
- A keen interest in visualising data and explanatory design, and understanding of how to use animation/motion to simplify complex topics.
- Experience in developing new video formats, styles and guidelines, such as explainers, with a focus on social media content and news videos.
- 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.
- 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 three days a week from our offices in King's Cross in London. Job share applications are welcome. If you are keen to apply jointly with someone else as a job share, you should make a single application and combine your application documents.
The salary for this NUJ position starts from £47,731, with a package commensurate with the skills, level of experience and responsibilities of the position. All roles at the Guardian are open for everybody to apply. It is important to us that you feel supported and comfortable throughout your recruitment process, in order to perform your best. Please let us know if there are any changes we could make to help your application, this includes providing documents in accessible formats or personalising the process to better support your needs.
Benefits at the GuardianYou’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 wellbeingWe 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 developmentWe 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. We value honesty in your application.
Motion Graphics Designer employer: GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA
At the Guardian, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that champions diversity and fosters personal and professional growth. As a Motion Graphics Designer in our dynamic Social Platforms team, you'll enjoy generous benefits such as six weeks of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and access to wellness initiatives, all while contributing to impactful journalism from our modern King's Cross office. Join us to create compelling visuals that engage audiences and make a difference in the media landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Motion Graphics Designer
✨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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA 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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA or learn about upcoming gigs that aren't advertised online!
✨Social Media: Your Design Playground
Use platforms like Instagram or Behance to share your designs and connect with the design community. Tagging companies like GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA in your posts can grab their attention and show off your flair! Keep an eye on their social channels too; temporary roles often pop up there first.
✨Apply Early, Apply Often
Temporary roles can fill up fast, so don’t wait around! Check GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA’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
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Best Work:For a graphic design role like Motion Graphics Designer at GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA, 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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA’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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA 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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA
✨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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA. 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 GUARDIAN NEWS & MEDIA’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!