At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a creative team to elevate branding initiatives in the Consumer Packaging sector.
- Company: Join Jones Knowles Ritchie, an independent branding business with a global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive benefits package including training, health insurance, and a pension plan.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a vibrant studio environment in Shoreditch.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by guiding innovative design projects and mentoring talented creatives.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in branding/design, strong leadership, and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Jones Knowles Ritchie is a branding business, founded in 1990 and proudly independent ever since. We started out in the world of packaging, but now we’re worldwide—from three founders, to more than 300 of us across the UK and USA. Together, we build and deliver brands across the entire consumer experience. But even more important than what we do, is why we do it. We’re here to inspire brands and people to be their true selves. To be brave. Be tenacious. And above all, be yourself. Because we believe that’s the only way to truly be distinctive, everywhere.
We are seeking a Design Director on a fixed term contract (FTC) from late January/early Feb 2026 to guide and elevate our creative vision. Reporting directly to the Creative Director, you will oversee the creative direction of branding initiatives, particularly in the Consumer Packaging (CPG) sector. The Design Director plays a pivotal leadership role within our Design team, driving quality and strategically led creative solutions. You will inspire your team and offer growth opportunities, enabling them to excel in their roles while consistently innovating for our clients.
Responsibilities
- Champion the sharing of creative work and inspiration both internally and externally
- Identify and develop skills within the team through training and mentorship
- Lead client-facing presentations with excellence in communication
- Deliver impactful pitches and strategies that influence client outcomes
- Provide constructive feedback on design work and guide projects towards creative excellence
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to achieve optimal results for clients
Experience
- Substantial experience in a leading branding, design, or creative agency
- Significant exposure to Global CPG projects with proven leadership
- Ability to construct brand ideas across various consumer touchpoints
- Experience managing design teams and fostering a collaborative environment
- Fluent in senior-level presentations and client engagement
- A passionate advocate for outstanding design and attention to detail
- Proven ability to extract world-class conceptual design from team members
Requirements
- 7+ years of relevant experience
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite
- Exceptional communication skills
- Experience leading a team of designers
At JKR, our goal is to create an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace that reflects and creates for the societies we live in. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a long-term business imperative and a commitment at JKR, not an initiative that sits under one department. As a leader in our business, you will demonstrate being a DE+I advocate and champion with your actions in how you build, run, and grow your team(s).
Benefits
This role will be offered as a Fixed term contract from January/Feb 2026, for 12 months, you will be eligible for JKR benefits including: Pension Plan, Training & Development, Paid holiday, Health insurance.
Location: Busy Shoreditch studio. Hybrid working: min 2 days pw in the studio (or as required by the team).
Design Director (12mth FTC) in London employer: Jones Knowles Ritchie
At Jones Knowles Ritchie, we pride ourselves on being an independent branding business that fosters creativity and innovation in a vibrant Shoreditch studio. As a Design Director, you will not only lead a talented team but also benefit from a culture that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, alongside opportunities for professional growth through mentorship and training. With a commitment to inspiring both brands and individuals, JKR offers a dynamic work environment where your creative vision can truly flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Director (12mth FTC) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the design and branding world. Attend industry events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Design Director role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work, especially projects related to Global CPG. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use your portfolio as a conversation starter to showcase your creative vision and leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising your pitch. You’ll need to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently, so rehearse how you’d present your past projects and how they align with JKR’s mission. Remember, they want to see your passion for outstanding design!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the JKR team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to inspire brands and people!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Director (12mth FTC) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Creative Spark:When you're putting together your application, let your creativity shine through! Use engaging language and showcase your design philosophy. Remember, we want to see how you can inspire and elevate our creative vision.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in branding and design, especially with Global CPG projects. We’re looking for someone who can lead and mentor, so don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've had!
Be Authentic:At JKR, we value authenticity. Be yourself in your application! Share your unique perspective on design and how you approach collaboration. This is your chance to show us why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jones Knowles Ritchie
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Jones Knowles Ritchie's work, especially in the Consumer Packaging sector. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their creative vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Design Director, you'll need to inspire and lead a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed design teams in the past, focusing on mentorship and fostering collaboration. This will demonstrate your ability to elevate others while driving quality.
✨Prepare for Client Engagement Scenarios
Expect questions about client-facing presentations and pitches. Think of specific instances where your communication skills influenced client outcomes. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your approach effectively during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your DE+I Commitment
Since JKR values diversity, equity, and inclusion, be prepared to discuss how you've championed these principles in your previous roles. Share concrete examples of how you've built inclusive teams and fostered an equitable environment.
