Position Function:
The Creative Manager leads the development and execution of dynamic visual communications that elevate the MS State Online brand across digital and print platforms. This role combines leadership in graphic design, creative direction, and strategic innovation to deliver compelling storytelling that connects with prospective and current students, alumni, and partners. This position reports to the Associate Director within the Center for Distance Education.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Lead the conceptualization, design, and production of visually engaging materials for digital and print media—including social media campaigns, web graphics, digital advertising, brochures, presentations, and event collateral.
• Serve as the brand steward for MS State Online, ensuring visual consistency, innovation, and alignment with university brand standards.
• Develop creative strategies that enhance storytelling, promote student success, and elevate institutional visibility across all communication channels.
• Champion innovative design practices and emerging technologies (e.g., motion graphics, animation, interactive media, and AI-assisted tools) to keep MS State Online’s creative output forward-thinking and competitive.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design campaigns that engage target audiences and support recruitment, enrollment, and retention goals.
• Explore new trends in higher education marketing and design to inform creative strategies and enhance digital engagement.
• Oversee project workflows, timelines, and creative production schedules to ensure timely completion of deliverables.
• Manage vendor relationships and coordinate with photographers, videographers, and printers as needed.
• Work closely with marketing, communications, enrollment, and academic teams to ensure creative alignment with institutional priorities and campaign objectives.
• Provide creative consultation and support for events, campaigns, and promotional initiatives that celebrate online students and faculty.
• Support campus-wide creative initiatives, special projects, and marketing campaigns as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in graphic design, creative direction, or marketing communications.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in higher education or online education marketing.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and related design software.
• Strong conceptual thinking, attention to detail, and understanding of design principles and user experience.
• Ability to balance creativity with strategic intent and institutional priorities.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• No or very limited physical effort required.
• Vision requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically.
Instructions for Applying:
Submit application, cover letter and resume to https://www.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
