Director of Creative Services

About the role

We are seeking a highly organized and creative Director of Creative Services to lead the design and layout of Cooperative Living magazine’s statewide and local pages and assist in creating multimedia content for other communications channels. This role bridges the gap between our editorial team, freelance contributors, and external printers, requiring an eye for compelling typography and layout combined with the technical ability to prepare press-ready files and manage strict publication deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Editor(s) and other members of the Communications Team to conceptualize and design engaging layouts, features, and covers for each issue of Cooperative Living.
• Edit, color-correct, retouch, and manipulate photographs and graphic assets to match the publication's aesthetic.
• Ensure all creative materials are produced accurately and delivered on time to the printer.
• Work with other members of the Communications Team to develop and maintain multimedia content as needed.
• Work with cooperative communicators to ensure local magazine pages are print-ready and provide design support and expertise.
• Establish and maintain an organized digital asset management (DAM) system for archiving images, fonts, templates, and historic collateral.
• Streamline the magazine production process to reduce proofing time, remove multiple article touchpoints, and work ahead of deadlines.
• Develop content that can be cross-purposed for maximum impact and audience reach across communications channels.
• Ensure continuity and alignment of association and magazine branding across all platforms and printed materials.
• Other duties as assigned to support VMDAEC teams and events.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual arts, or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in magazine, editorial, or publishing design.
• Advanced knowledge of industry-standard publishing software, specifically the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator).
• Strong understanding of print production processes, including file preparation and prepress requirements.
• Experience with handling printing bids.
• Exceptional organizational skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight editorial deadlines.
• A robust portfolio showcasing expertise in editorial layout, typography, and image manipulation.

Work Environment

This employee usually works in a normal office environment and reports to the Managing Editor of Cooperative Living.

Pay

$60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year