At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting design projects that make a real impact in defence training and communication.
- Company: Join the Defence Academy of the UK, a leader in innovative media services.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career progression and support for all.
- Why this job: Shape creative outputs and mentor fellow designers in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in graphic design and strong portfolio required; Adobe Creative Suite expertise essential.
The predicted salary is between 36100 - 36100 £ per year.
Location: Defence Academy of the United Kingdom, Shrivenham, SN6 8LA
Salary: up to £36,100 depending on experience plus excellent benefits
Schedule: 12 month FTC/FT/37 hours
As a Lead Graphic Designer in the Media Services team, you will lead the creation and delivery of high‑quality digital and print design that supports defence training and communication. You will play a key role in shaping creative outputs that inform, engage and make a meaningful impact on customers and the communities we serve.
Responsibilities
- Lead the creation and delivery of digital and print design projects, ensuring high‑quality outputs
- Manage workflow from the graphics queue, allocating work across the team effectively
- Produce creative content including animations and social media assets
- Provide guidance, mentoring and support to designers to help them grow and maintain consistent standards
- Ensure all design work aligns with brand guidelines, accessibility standards and overall creative direction
- Collaborate with stakeholders, production teams and external suppliers to deliver practical, cost‑effective solutions
Qualifications
- A degree or equivalent experience in graphic design, supported by a strong portfolio
- Significant experience in both digital and print design, including brand management
- Advanced knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, including After Effects, Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator
- Strong communication skills and the ability to influence and guide colleagues and stakeholders
- A proactive, organised approach with a passion for creativity and continuous improvement
Security Clearance
This role requires a Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance. Depending on the nature of the role, you may also need to obtain formal security clearance such as CTC or SC. UK residency may apply for certain levels of clearance. An Occupational Health Questionnaire will be completed to identify and provide any support needed for the role.
Benefits
- Competitive holiday package
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme
- Over 1,100 internal training courses, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships, mentoring opportunities and a focus on internal progression
- Employee Assistance Programme, Bupa Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, 30% off at Serco‑managed leisure centres and 24/7 access to a virtual GP service
- Discounts across around 1,000 retailers, including food, clothing, entertainment and travel
- Paid volunteering day, tax‑free charitable giving through Payroll Giving Scheme and support for donations to the Serco People Fund Charity
- Employee networks supporting inclusion and connection for LGBTQIA+ employees, women, parents and carers, people with disabilities, veterans and people from all cultural backgrounds
Diversity & Inclusion
At Serco, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. We will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool. We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working and are a proud Disability Confident Leader and holder of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard.
Graphic Designer (Lead) employer: Serco
At Serco, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom in Shrivenham. As a Lead Graphic Designer, you will benefit from a competitive salary, extensive training opportunities, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing, including access to health services and discounts across numerous retailers. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every team member feels valued and supported, making this a truly rewarding place to advance your career while contributing to meaningful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graphic Designer (Lead)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow designers, attend industry events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, be ready to discuss your projects and the impact they had.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its design style. Tailor your answers to show how your skills align with their needs, especially in areas like brand management and digital design.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Graphic Designer (Lead)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Portfolio:Make sure to include a strong portfolio that highlights your best work. We want to see your creativity and how you’ve tackled different design challenges, so pick pieces that really showcase your skills in both digital and print.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send the same application everywhere! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to this specific role. Highlight your experience with Adobe Creative Suite and any relevant projects that align with our mission at the Defence Academy.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Make sure to communicate your ideas effectively, as strong communication is key in this role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to follow your application status directly. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work in both digital and print design. Tailor it to include projects that align with the role's focus on defence training and communication, demonstrating how your designs have made an impact.
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
Brush up on your knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, especially After Effects, Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you used these tools effectively, as this will show your technical expertise and creativity.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
Since the role involves working with various stakeholders and teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated on projects. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve influenced others to achieve a common goal.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Graphic Designer, you'll be expected to mentor and guide other designers. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've supported team members in their growth while maintaining high standards in design.
