Associate Design Director at Barkley

At BarkleyOKRP, we view design as a fundamental pillar of our identity. It is far more than a simple craft for us. We integrate design into our strategy, processes, and systems to create meaningful, enduring brand interactions. By treating design as a core advantage, we scale our impact and ensure that every project we touch resonates with purpose. We are currently looking for an Associate Design Director to join our team on a full-time, on-site basis in the United States. In this role, you will partner with creative, strategy, and client experience teams to uncover unique opportunities and elevate our collective output.

Key outcomes

• Serve as a conceptual leader for design projects while contributing to high-level strategic development.
• Manage specific client relationships and accounts from a design perspective, including leading presentations and overseeing day-to-day deliverables.
• Collaborate closely with account and strategy leads to strengthen client partnerships and enrich our creative work.
• Mentor and manage junior and mid-level staff, providing guidance to senior team members while fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
• Review team output to ensure the work is novel, successful, and maintains our reputation as a leader in brand experience.
• Utilize your understanding of various disciplines, such as motion design, storytelling, and interactive design, to nurture team growth.
• Prioritize resources and manage workloads effectively to meet both immediate and long-term project goals.
• Drive innovation by leveraging new technologies and communication platforms.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience.
• A robust portfolio that demonstrates your body of work.
• Proficiency in core design tools, specifically Illustrator and Photoshop.
• A solid grasp of design fundamentals, including typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, and the use of negative space.
• The ability to think beyond static imagery to incorporate motion design and interaction design.
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to present and articulate concepts to both internal teams and clients.
• Proven ability to lead projects and manage your own time effectively.
• Fluency in English.

How to apply

We are dedicated to fostering a radically diverse and inclusive workplace, supported by our formal DEI+B programs and various community partnerships. If you are a creative leader who thrives on collaboration and strategic thinking, we invite you to apply and share your portfolio with us. We look forward to reviewing your experience and discussing how you can contribute to our vision.