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Location: Minneapolis, MN (hybrid, as needed)

Job Type: W2 Contract (ongoing)

Compensation Range: $50-60 per hour

On behalf of our client in the manufacturing industry, we are seeking a Production Design Lead to establish and grow an in-house creative team. This role is foundational in shaping the team’s structure, workflows, and creative processes while also contributing as a hands-on designer.

As the first hire for this new in-house agency, the Production Design Lead will be responsible for building and mentoring a high-performing design team, developing operational efficiencies, and implementing best practices to ensure seamless creative execution. A strong background in in-house creative teams is essential, as this role requires both strategic leadership and tactical design expertise.

Responsibilities Breakdown:

• 20% Operations & business management
• 20% Staffing support (sourcing, strategy, hiring, onboarding, and peak demand support), plus staff performance management & development
• 10% Collaboration with Client-Company to meet performance needs
• 50% Hands-on graphic design project support

Strategic, Management & Leadership Responsibilities

• Ensure the highest level of team performance by implementing best practices in operations, staffing, organization, and professional development.
• Foster a culture that values talent, collaboration, autonomy, and accountability, driving continuous improvement across the team.
• Proactively identify and address opportunities for operational enhancements.
• Assess, design, and implement processes, policies, and procedures tailored to the department, its clients, and the Client Company.
• Adapt organizational and operational infrastructure to evolving business needs.
• Standardize and document operational practices, policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Provide strategic business insights and best practices to client-side upper management.
• Develop, coach, and mentor direct reports through formal and informal feedback, including annual performance reviews.
• Conduct performance evaluations and oversee top-grading practices.
• Partner with the Key Accounts Director to implement team-building and motivational programs.
• Ensure compliance with all Client branding, operational, legal, and regulatory requirements.

Operational Responsibilities

• Proactively identify and implement operational improvements.
• Assess, design, and optimize processes, policies, and procedures to align with department and corporate needs.
• Track and analyze Studio metrics on a weekly and monthly basis.
• Organize and lead monthly Studio Operations meetings.
• Organize and lead biannual Studio Review meetings.
• Optimize resource utilization by managing overtime and leveraging flexible staff to meet demand cost-effectively.
• Oversee onboarding for contract employees, ensuring they receive the necessary tools and training.

Graphic Design Responsibilities

• Apply expertise in design, production, and illustration.
• Adapt existing designs and artwork for new formats, media, and channels.
• Revise and update design deliverables as needed.
• Produce accurate, publication-ready materials.
• Handle proprietary and confidential documents with discretion.
• Ensure all materials adhere to brand guidelines.

Qualifications

Experience Required:

• BA in a related field from an accredited college or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 10 years in creative, communications, or marketing services.
• At least 5 years of experience managing an in-house or corporate creative/communications department.

Skills:

• Strong project and organizational management skills with the ability to multitask effectively.
• Deep understanding of metrics and data-driven best practices.
• Excellent people management skills, including coaching, mentoring, and staff development.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to address business challenges and opportunities effectively.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.

At Cella, a randstad digital company, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact HRsupport@randstadusa.com.

Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Cella by randstad digital offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, an incentive and recognition program, and 401K contribution (all benefits are based on eligibility).

This posting is open for thirty (30) days.