Design Lead

Reports to: Associate Creative Director Department: Creative Classification: Exempt

WHO WE ARE

We are Thesis. Proudly headquartered in Portland, OR, while serving clients globally for over 20 years. Thesis is a creative agency that drives business success through marketing across technology, strategy and operations.

THE JOB

The Design Lead is a master craftsperson and strategic thinker who elevates the visual output across the agency. This role drives design excellence by pushing conceptual rigor, design systems, and brand expression to new heights. As a senior IC, they partner closely with creative and strategy leads to ensure work is both beautiful and purpose-driven.

AS A PERSON, YOU ARE:

A master of craft and strategic thinking, able to generate compelling creative concepts grounded in insights and cultural relevance. Highly skilled in design, with deep knowledge of typography, brand identity systems, experiential design, digital design principles, packaging, and spatial environments. Comfortable creating cohesive brand narratives across digital, physical, experiential, and social platforms. Technically proficient with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Figma, and familiar with 3D design and prototyping tools as required. Experienced in mentoring and developing creative teams, fostering collaboration, growth, and high creative standards. Confident in presenting creative vision, communicating clearly with clients, and advocating for design-led solutions internally and externally. Able to work seamlessly across strategy, account management, and production teams to align creative output with goals and objectives. Curious and experimental, eager to explore new technologies, materials, and design methodologies to elevate outcomes. IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL: Own the craft direction and quality control across multiple accounts or large-scale programs. Serve as the go-to design authority within pitch teams and delivery squads. Translate brand strategy into scalable design systems and lead their implementation. Mentor other designers through feedback, creative reviews, and hands-on collaboration. Push innovation in design by introducing new tools, techniques, and trends. Maintain current knowledge of digital channels and design best practices. EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS 5-7+ years of experience in visual design across brand, digital, and content. Portfolio demonstrating mastery in visual systems, brand identity, and cross-platform campaigns. Recognized for bridging concept and craft with strategic clarity. Known for elevating the work of others through mentorship and guidance.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The following capabilities are required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden on the agency are available: Using standard office equipment, computers, and related technology. Activities performed in an office setting with extended periods of sitting, keyboarding, and using a computer mouse. Bending, reaching, lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 25 pounds. Travel is not anticipated for this role. RELATIONSHIPS Reports to: Creative Director or Associate Creative Director VALUES Be Lean, Take Action: Think big, roll up your sleeves, and get the job done. Use process as an engine, not a brake. Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say: Connect openly, share ideas honestly, and embrace collaboration without ego. Show Up Fully: Bring your whole self to work - your perspective, background, and experiences - and make space for others to do the same.

ENCOURAGEMENT

We know that experience can show up in many ways. We encourage candidates to apply even if you don't meet 100% of the qualifications. If you are passionate about design, eager to grow, and excited to contribute your perspective, we want to hear from you. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and believe the best ideas come from bringing different voices and experiences together. If you're a designer who's hungry to learn, share, and innovate, you'll thrive here. Thesis