Graphic Designer (Johannesburg)

Job description

Wits University requires a highly skilled Graphic Designer who can contribute to our University's brand identity and enhance our communication materials. The ideal candidate will have a strong portfolio of design work, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of design principles. The incumbent will join a dynamic and energetic team that designs and produces a wide variety of electronic/digital and printed material to promote the image of Wits to both internal customers (other departments within the University) and external customers (potential students or the public). The role also includes conceptualisation, design, and layout optimised for digital applications, and overseeing any printing to finalisation. The branding and general look and feel of all material are to be consistent with the broader vision and strategy of the University and corporate identity guidelines.

Key responsibilities include the following:

• Brand custodian: Strategic responsibility for brand identity management, ensuring alignment across campaigns and channels.
• Conceptualisation, design, and layout: Professional design and layout of a wide range of material suitable for multiple platforms, print publications, marketing, and promotional material. Types of material include but are not limited to - invitations, logo development, digital, web and hardcopy brochures, reports, animations, illustrations, infographics, and digital collateral for platforms such as Zoom/Teams and all social media, etc. The incumbent needs to stay up-to-date with design trends and technologies to maintain a contemporary and fresh visual identity for the University.
• Client liaison: Develop and maintain professional relationships with all clients on the University campus to ensure that a service excellence ethic is upheld and that client needs are clearly understood and met timeously.
• Production and repro: Manage and liaise with external suppliers and service providers, ensuring quality control and timely delivery of creative outputs. Understand the technical process of repro and print to ensure the correct outcome is achieved, e.g. data compression, data conversion, scanning of images and digital prints. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, demonstrating excellent multitasking skills. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate marketing strategies into engaging visual assets.

Requirements

• Graphic Design Expertise: Proficient in the Adobe Creative Suite (specifically Illustrator, Photoshop, Dreamweaver (HTML), and InDesign), and skills in illustration and animation; with a strong grasp of design principles and best practices. Proficiency in MS Word and PowerPoint are also essential. Proficiency in AI-driven design tools and the ability to integrate emerging technologies into creative workflows.
•  Creativity: Ability to think creatively and translate ideas into visually appealing designs that resonate with our audiences. A conceptual thinker who is proactive and takes initiative.
•  Time Management: Excellent organisational skills to manage multiple projects with varying deadlines effectively. Ability to meet tight deadlines (works fast and accurately).
•  Team Player: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and incorporate feedback.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous in ensuring the accuracy of design work and adherence to brand guidelines.
•  Good understanding and use of the English language: The ability to comprehend verbal and written briefs.
•  Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to the evolving needs and priorities of the University, and to learn and adapt to new software and technology in the design field.
•  Typography: Proficient in typography and the ability to create well-balanced and legible designs in artwork compositions.

 Qualifications and Experience

A 3-year full-time Diploma or equivalent in graphic design.

5 – 8 years of professional graphic design experience.

A strong portfolio showcasing a variety of design projects.