Commercial Art Director in London

Monocle is an independent global media brand known for intelligent journalism, distinctive design and an international outlook. Since launching in London in 2007, we have grown to include our magazine, newsletters, radio station, books, films and international events, alongside thriving shops, e-commerce and cafés. From Midori House and our bureaux around the world, we create work for a discerning global audience and collaborate with ambitious commercial partners across fashion, design, travel, hospitality and culture.

The opportunity: We are looking for a Commercial Art Director to shape and deliver exceptional creative work for Monocle’s commercial partners. Sitting at the centre of our commercial and creative teams, you will turn client ambitions into original, beautifully executed ideas that feel unmistakably Monocle. You will lead projects from initial brief and concept through to final artwork and delivery across print, digital and experiential formats. This is a hands-on creative role for an accomplished designer. You will develop ideas, create layouts and bring work to life, while setting standards and supporting other designers. Working closely with commercial, design, editorial and production, you will ensure that every project balances creative ambition with client objectives, budgets, timelines and Monocle’s exacting visual standards.

What you’ll do:

• Conceive and deliver distinctive commercial creative work across print, digital and experiential channels
• Translate client briefs into strong concepts and beautifully executed design solutions
• Take projects from initial ideas and layouts through to final artwork and production
• Set a high standard of typography, visual storytelling and design craft
• Provide creative direction, constructive feedback and practical support to other designers
• Help commercial colleagues develop compelling and deliverable proposals
• Present creative thinking confidently to clients and internal stakeholders
• Build strong relationships across commercial, design, editorial, production and external partners
• Oversee multiple projects, anticipating challenges and keeping work moving without compromising quality

What we’re looking for: You are an exceptional designer and creative thinker with significant experience as a Senior Designer or Art Director. Your portfolio demonstrates original ideas, excellent execution and a sophisticated understanding of typography, layout, brand identity and visual storytelling. This role will not suit someone looking to focus solely on high-level direction or team management. The successful candidate will be designing, making and delivering work every day. You will also bring:

• Strong experience across print and digital design
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop
• Experience delivering commercial campaigns or integrated creative projects
• A strong understanding of print production, digital delivery and creative workflows
• The ability to transform client briefs into distinctive, commercially effective work
• Experience guiding designers and providing clear creative feedback
• Excellent communication, organisation and stakeholder-management skills
• Sound judgement, attention to detail and an appreciation of Monocle’s visual identity

The details: The role is full time and based 5 days per week at Midori House in leafy Marylebone, London, the centre of Monocle’s editorial and commercial operations. It requires the right to work in the UK. Benefits include health and life insurance, 23 days’ annual leave, plus a seven-day Christmas shutdown, and staff discounts at our cafés and shops.