Design Director, Opinion

The mission of The New York Times is to seek the truth and help people understand the world. That means independent journalism is at the heart of all we do as a company. It’s why we have a world-renowned newsroom that sends journalists to report on the ground from nearly 160 countries. It’s why we focus deeply on how our readers will experience our journalism, from print to audio to a world-class digital and app destination. And it’s why our business strategy centers on making journalism so good that it’s worth paying for. About the Role: The New York Times Opinion design department is seeking a Design Director to partner with editors and visual teams to elevate and distinguish our Opinion coverage across all platforms. In this role, you will convey how Times Opinion stands apart from newsroom coverage through bold, thoughtful visual storytelling. We are looking for an idea generator and passionate storyteller who approaches visual solutions in unexpected ways, translating complex ideas into accessible narrative experiences. You will collaborate closely with senior visual leaders across graphics, photography, video, and audio, as well as Opinion editors, to reach new audiences with formats that spark debate and intelligent conversation. As a lead design role, this position balances strategic vision with hands-on execution. You will guide and mentor the design team, art direct creative solutions through wide-ranging commissions, and step directly into digital projects as a visual editor—shaping story flow, defining lead visuals, and setting the overarching design direction. This is an in-office position, based in New York City and includes regular attendance in the office four days each week. There may be some flexibility to work remotely per your departmental guidance. Responsibilities : Shape, protect and maintain the visual approach for the Sunday Opinion section and covers, digital interactive packages, daily report, newsletters, title graphics and promotional art to support all stories on and off platform, all while maintaining brand distinction from the newsroom Direct and inspire the design team to develop strong concepts, and give feedback for impactful executions; step in as a hands-on visual editor to define story flow and lead visuals Partner with editors, graphics, photo, video, audio, and product teams to plan upcoming packages and cover stories, and build multi-platform narrative experiences Build and guide a diverse global network of external illustrators, photographers, and artists to collaborate on initial pitch through final execution Maintain rigorous typography, layout, and graphic standards while establishing efficient workflows to meet tight newsroom deadlines and stakeholder feedback, within budget Demonstrate support and understanding of our value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world You will report to the Creative Director