Lead Designer – Creative Studio

About the role

Lead the idea, build the thing, and own both. This hands‑on leadership role sits in a fast‑moving studio of 60+ creatives, delivering high‑volume, agency‑speed work for a major South African bank.

Key responsibilities

• Lead creative execution of projects, ensuring quality, consistency and alignment with business objectives.
• Work independently on smaller projects and lead a team of 4‑6 creatives on larger initiatives.
• Co‑lead and coordinate ATL and BTL digital campaign elements in partnership with the Copy Lead.
• Develop concepts, secure approvals and drive production of campaigns comprising 400+ assets.
• Act as custodian of the brand’s visual communications, advising on correct design usage.
• Mentor and guide other creatives through leadership of the work rather than formal reporting lines.
• Take overall responsibility for the creative team when required.

Required profile

• 6+ years in advertising or communications with solid agency or internal studio experience.
• Proven track record of both concepting and executing, including leading other designers.
• Experience delivering web campaigns, social media, retail marketing, branding, design systems, art direction, ideation and prototyping across multiple brands.
• Comfortable in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment; agency speed is the default.
• Minimum: relevant tertiary qualification in Design; preferred: postgraduate qualification in Design.

Required skills

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Figma (in‑depth experience required)
• Microsoft Office

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead work that reaches millions of South Africans.
• Join a studio of 60+ passionate creatives with a culture of diverse thinking and continuous learning.
• Informal, entrepreneurial environment with no politics or rigid hierarchy.
• Strong focus on growth – high internal promotion rate and abundant development opportunities.
• Comprehensive benefits package supporting a serious‑work mindset.