Design Director

About Stephens+Stephens+ is a fast-paced, full-service agency with omni-channel marketing expertise in retail,fintech, athletics, healthcare, and education. Most of our clientele are nationally known industryleaders and we develop and execute full-scale marketing campaigns.Stephens+ is headquartered in Dayton, OH and serves clients across the country.SummaryThe Design Director at Stephens+ helps set the standard for design quality and creativeexecution across the agency. This hands-on leader will guide design thinking and conceptdevelopment, mentor designers, and contribute directly to design and execution across print,digital, motion, and emerging platforms. The ideal candidate brings strong agency experience, animpressive portfolio, excellent communication skills, and a high level of design expertise.Submit your CV and any additional required information after you have read this description by clicking on the application button.Job ExpectationsThis is a hands-on leadership role. The Design Director balances people leadership andcreative direction with active participation in design, concepting, and execution. This role drivesdesign excellence through:Design LeadershipHelps establish and maintain the agency's design standards in partnership with creativeleadershipLeads design thinking, concept development, and creative problem-solvingBrings strong design skills and clear rationale across a range of work, media, and platformsDemonstrates expertise in traditional and digital design, including print, interactive, video,and motionAdvocates for technology-forward platforms, tools, and approachesProvides feedback that strengthens briefs, project information, and creative directionEnsures work is aligned with and elevates brand guidelinesPeople LeadershipMentors designers through thoughtful feedback, direction, and opportunities for growthManages and develops team members through regular 1:1s, coaching, and ongoing feedbackServes as a design resource for the broader agencyIdentifies and champions process improvements that create a more efficientworkflowProvides training and guidance on design tools and processes as neededHelps foster a collaborative, supportive, and high-performing teamCollaborationWorks closely with creative leadership to advance the quality and capabilities of the departmentCollaborates effectively across disciplines and agency teamsBuilds strong, positive relationships and models clear, efficient communicationBrings strong knowledge of design, motion, and MarTech, including digital experiences, CMS,email, personalization, AI, marketing automation, and interactive platformsAgency & Client Impactxhyhwjd Understands client objectives and translates business challenges into effective creativesolutionsHelps teams balance creative ambition with client needs, scope, timing, and budgetParticipates in client presentations and conversations when appropriateIdentifies opportunities to expand creative solutions and agency capabilitiesDemonstrates curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and growActs with integrity and serves as a positive, solutions-oriented force within the agencyRequirements5–6+ years of professional design experience with an impressive online portfolio3–5+ years of experience leading, managing, and mentoring designersAgency experience preferredStrong expertise in design, branding, and digital experiencesAbility to work effectively in a fast-paced agency environmentLocated in Ohio and able to work remotely