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 industry

leaders and we develop and execute full-scale marketing campaigns.

Stephens+ is headquartered in Dayton, OH and serves clients across the country.

Summary

The Design Director at Stephens+ helps set the standard for design quality and creative

execution across the agency. This hands-on leader will guide design thinking and concept

development, mentor designers, and contribute directly to design and execution across print,

digital, motion, and emerging platforms. The ideal candidate brings strong agency experience, an

impressive portfolio, excellent communication skills, and a high level of design expertise.

Job Expectations

This is a hands-on leadership role. The Design Director balances people leadership and

creative direction with active participation in design, concepting, and execution. This role drives

design excellence through:

Design Leadership

+ Helps establish and maintain the agency's design standards in partnership with creative

leadership

Leads 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 motion

Advocates for technology-forward platforms, tools, and approachesProvides feedback that strengthens briefs, project information, and creative directionEnsures work is aligned with and elevates brand guidelinesPeople Leadership

Mentors 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 efficientworkflow

Provides training and guidance on design tools and processes as neededHelps foster a collaborative, supportive, and high-performing teamCollaboration

Works 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 platforms

Agency & Client Impact

+ Understands client objectives and translates business challenges into effective creative

solutions

Helps 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 agencyRequirements

5–6+ 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