The Design Director is a hands-on design leader who turns complex business and customer needs into clear, compelling creative work. You’ll partner closely with Strategy, Account, Creative, and Production, to deliver high-quality work that meets brand standards. You will flex both your leadership and execution skills, leading projects through each step of the design process from concepting through final execution, all while remaining deeply involved in the craft. PLEASE NOTE: Preference will be given to candidates who are local to the Houston, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta, or Miami metros and willing to commit to a hybrid schedule of 4 days/week on average. Highly qualified candidates living in other markets may also be considered. Responsibilities Lead design from early concepts through final delivery, staying hands-on throughout Lead the design vision for internal communications, including presentations, announcements, culture moments, leadership messaging, and company-wide storytelling. Oversee quick-turn social content, including same-day creative needs, rapid response assets, and high-volume short-form design. Build and maintain a design ecosystem that ensures consistency, clarity, and scalability across all internal and social touchpoints. Collaborate early with cross-functional partners to ensure design is built in from the start Own design quality across brand, digital, and campaign work, using design systems and guidelines Design alongside your team, giving clear, practical feedback and direction Balance multiple projects with speed, rigor, and strong attention to detail Present work confidently to senior stakeholders, clearly explaining design decisions Treat the brief as a starting point and push toward smarter, more distinctive solutions Create a supportive, inclusive environment where good ideas can come from anywhere Qualifications 8 years of hands-on design experience (agency, in-house, or both) at least 3 years in a leadership role. Expertise in social content design, rapid-turn creative workflows, and internal communications. Strong foundation in design systems, typography, layout, color, and accessibility Expert in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite ; comfortable working within brand guidelines Motion design and/or 3 D experience is a plus AI tool/ Workflow experience is a plus A portfolio that shows strong craft, clear thinking, and problem-solving High standards, sharp attention to detail, and genuine passion for the work - - - Please include resume with portfolio link - - -