Design Director

At Kaleidoscope, we believe the most effective brand solutions require both abstract thinking & tangible results. And like a kaleidoscope that combines colors, shapes and forms to allow us to view the world through a unique point of view, our creative collective of thinkers, designers and makers come from all walks of life and flex all types of skills to provide fresh perspectives rooted in Strategy, Design and Prototyping.

Job Summary

Kaleidoscope is a dynamic creative agency with a strong reputation in brand packaging design, innovation, and brand marketing support, serving both established brands and innovative start-ups. We are looking for a Design Director to lead and build a high-performing team of designers.

As the Design Director, you will be responsible for driving your team’s success by challenging and supporting the team through constant communication and feedback, ensuring that all work meets our agency’s high standards and aligns with client goals. This is a hands-on leadership role where you will work directly with clients and collaborate with other teams to deliver outstanding results.

Core Competencies

• Leadership and Management:
• Lead and mentor a team of designers, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Provide clear direction and constructive feedback to ensure the team’s growth and success.?
• Challenge and support your team to learn, grow and build their skill sets in design and design strategy
• Creative Strategy and Execution:
• Develop and articulate creative strategies using that aligns with client goals and brand positioning.?
• Must exhibit a strong understanding of design systems, particularly in their application to brand portfolios.?
• Proven experience in photography art direction, particularly in the context of food packaging.?
• Oversee the design process from concept to final delivery, ensuring creative excellence and consistency across all touchpoints.?
• Balance hands-on design work with oversight responsibilities, contributing to key projects
• Client Engagement:??
• Act as a primary creative contact for key clients, build strong relationships and understand business objectives.?
• Know how to communicate design strategy as it relates to concept evaluation and presentation
• Collaborate with account teams to ensure client satisfaction and successful project outcomes
• Innovation & Trends:??
• Stay current with design trends, industry developments, and emerging technologies.?
• Encourage the team to explore innovative approaches, pushing the boundaries of creativity.?
• Lead the agency in developing new capabilities and offers that align with market demands.

Qualifications

• Experience:
• 8+ years of experience in a design leadership role, with a strong portfolio highlighting successful projects in brand packaging design.
• Track record of leading teams and delivering exceptional design solutions
• Skills:
• Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant design tools.?
• Strong understanding of brand strategy, packaging design, and visual communication.?
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client management skills.?
• Ability to think strategically and translate client objectives into compelling design solutions
• Education:?
• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field.
• Master’s degree is a plus
• Personal Attributes:??
• A passion for design and a deep understanding of its role in brand building.
• A collaborative spirit and a willingness to lead by example.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Versatile communicator and team builder

At Kaleidoscope, we value our team members and strive to provide them with a competitive benefits package that supports their well-being and helps them achieve their financial and personal goals. In addition to a great studio space, unlimited Starbucks coffee, and awesome people (and sometimes dogs) to work with, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time team members, including:

• Flexible work arrangements, including work-from-home options and flexible hours, for certain roles;
• Generous PTO/Floating Holidays, Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave to support work-life balance;
• Health, well-being, and retirement benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance;
• 100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance;
• Voluntary Life Insurance for additional coverage for yourself, partner, and children;
• Voluntary Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance (STD and LTD) for added financial protection;
• 401(k) plan with a generous employer match to help you plan for your future;
• Employee Assistance Program – free and confidential support for you and your family

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Upon hire, candidates are required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.