At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative projects and inspire a team of designers to innovate.
- Company: Join SGK, a leader in design and branding solutions.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of design and make your mark in a dynamic industry.
- Qualifications: Proven design experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Marks, part of the Propelis Group, Marks is a consumer experience agency creating engaging moments across the entire brand spectrum—from brand design and packaging, to content and consumer connections. We are a collaborative global network of 1,900+ team members across 25+ studios and 20+ countries, partnering with some of the world’s most recognized brands to solve complex business challenges through design, strategy, and craft.
We're looking for an established Design Director who can balance exceptional creative thinking with confident client leadership, helping shape the future of a flagship account while inspiring the people around them to produce their best work.
If you thrive on ownership, enjoy being trusted by clients, and want to lead work that millions of consumers interact with every day, this could be the role you've been waiting for.
This is a hybrid working role based at our London studio.
Why this role?
Few opportunities offer the chance to become such an integral part of a globally recognised brand.
This is not a role where you'll be one step removed from decision-making. You'll be a trusted partner to the client, helping influence the direction of a category-leading brand and playing a critical role in shaping its future.
You'll inherit a highly respected account with strong relationships already in place, surrounded by an experienced team who know the brand inside out and genuinely care about producing outstanding work, as the brand itself continues to evolve across new products, occasions, channels and consumer experiences, creating a steady flow of diverse and creatively rewarding challenges.
The Impact You'll Have
You'll lead the creative vision across packaging and broader brand world initiatives, ensuring every piece of work strengthens the brand and drives it forward.
You'll become a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders, building confidence through your expertise, strategic thinking and ability to navigate complex conversations with calm authority.
Beyond the work itself, you'll be instrumental in shaping the culture of the team.
You'll create an environment where designers are empowered to take ownership, stretch their abilities and grow their careers, while maintaining the high standards expected on a world-class account.
The team values openness, honesty and mutual support. Success here isn't about being the loudest voice in the room. It's about building trust, bringing people with you and creating the conditions for others to succeed.
What We're Looking For
- Significant experience leading FMCG, packaging and brand design programmes.
- A deep understanding of how brands come to life on pack and beyond.
- Exceptional client-facing skills and the confidence to build relationships with senior stakeholders.
- The ability to guide clients through challenging conversations while maintaining trust and credibility.
- Strong coaching and mentoring capabilities, with a genuine passion for developing talent.
- Outstanding attention to detail and creative craft.
- A calm, resilient and optimistic mindset.
Why Join Us?
Because opportunities to lead a brand of this scale and significance rarely come along.
You'll have the freedom to influence creative direction, the support of an experienced team, the trust of long-standing clients, and the opportunity to leave a genuine mark on one of the most recognised brands in the marketplace.
For the right Design Director, this isn't just another account. It's a career-defining opportunity.
About Propelis: Marks and Equator are part of Propelis Group. Propelis is a portfolio of global marketing services and technology companies with a combined legacy of 150+ years, 2,000+ clients, 9,000 employees, and operations across 30 countries. Propelis provides the scale and support of a global organization while preserving the unique culture and identity of each company in its portfolio. For more information visit:
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Design Director employer: Marks
Marks is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture in the heart of London. With a focus on employee growth, they provide ample opportunities for professional development alongside a comprehensive benefits package, including 25 days of annual leave. Joining Marks means being part of a vibrant team that thrives on creativity and innovation while working with a diverse global client roster.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the design industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. When you get an interview, be ready to discuss your projects and the impact they had.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its design philosophy. Tailor your answers to show how your vision aligns with theirs. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:When applying for the Design Director role, make sure to showcase your best design work. We want to see your creativity and how you approach design challenges, so include a portfolio that highlights your unique style and thought process.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates take the time to tailor their CV and cover letter to our company. Mention specific projects or values of StudySmarter that resonate with you, and explain why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Be Authentic:We appreciate authenticity! When writing your application, let your personality shine through. Share your passion for design and what drives you in your career. This helps us get to know the real you beyond just your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets into the right hands, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your materials and ensures you’re considered for the Design Director position. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marks
✨Know Your Design Principles
Make sure you brush up on the core design principles relevant to SGK and SGS. Be ready to discuss how these principles influence your work and decision-making process. This shows that you’re not just creative, but also strategic in your approach.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Bring along a well-curated portfolio that highlights your best work. Tailor it to reflect projects that align with the values and style of SGK and SGS. Be prepared to explain your thought process behind each piece, as this demonstrates your depth of understanding and creativity.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about past challenges you've faced in design projects and how you overcame them. Practising these responses will help you articulate your experience clearly and confidently.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the company culture or upcoming projects at SGK and SGS. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to gauge if the company is the right fit for you.