Unit: Office Of The Provost MBU

Department: Academic Operations

Position Summary and Role Overview:

The VCU Office of the Provost seeks a creative and detail-oriented Graphic Design Specialist to support institutional communications through compelling visual design and collaborative storytelling. This role focuses primarily on developing print and digital collateral, developing brand standards and guidelines and contributing to broader communications efforts to units across VCU.

The ideal candidate is a creative self-starter who can manage multiple projects simultaneously, work independently and collaborate effectively across campus units. This individual will provide enterprise-level graphic design leadership and strategies and proactively anticipate and prepare long-term branding initiatives in collaboration with the Office of the Provost communications team. This position will collaborate closely with VCU Enterprise Marketing and Communications to align content, storytelling and brand positioning with institutional priorities and standards and will report to the Office of the Provost Director of Communications. 

For consideration, applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, contact information for three professional references, and work portfolio.

Typical Responsibilities:

Graphic Design (Approximately 75%)

• Design and produce a wide range of print and digital materials, including brochures, flyers, posters, reports, presentations and web graphics
• Develop and maintain branded templates for use across campus departments and units
• Ensure all design work adheres to institutional brand standards and visual identity guidelines
• Partner with internal stakeholders to translate concepts into high-quality visual deliverables
• Create assets for digital platforms, including social media graphics, email headers and web visuals
• Support the development of common design components and systems to improve consistency and efficiency across communications
• Lead project management of design initiatives in collaboration with university partners
• Prepare files for print production and coordinate with vendors as needed.

Communications Support (Approximately 25%)

• Assist with content creation, including storytelling and editing for web, email and social media
• Support social media planning and execution, including graphic and light copy development
• Contribute to email marketing efforts (layout, formatting, and content preparation)
• Provide general communications support for campaigns and initiatives
• Collaborate with team members on messaging and storytelling strategies
• Provide occasional event support 
• Other duties, as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Arts or related field (or equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, and experience)
• Minimum of 4 years of professional graphic design experience
• Demonstrated experience leading or contributing to graphic design strategy within a complex organization and aligning visual communications with institutional priorities and long-term goals
• Ability to consult with senior leaders and cross-functional partners to translate strategic objectives into effective visual communications assets
• Successful experience balancing hands-on production work with strategic oversight, contributing both as an individual designer and as a thought partner in shaping visual direction
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Canva
• Knowledge of design systems thinking, including asset libraries, reusable components and governance models that support large, distributed organizations
• Strong understanding of layout, typography color theory and brand identity best practices
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Excellent organizational skills for managing multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and initiative taking to anticipate needs
• Strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in both print and digital design
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience collaborating on or supporting major institutional initiatives or campaigns, particularly those involving multiple departments and high visibility
• Proven ability to establish and evolve brand standards, ensuring consistency while allowing for unit-level flexibility
• Experience developing and scaling enterprise-level template systems (print, digital, presentations, and email) to improve brand cohesion across stakeholders
• Experience with motion graphics or video elements, including lower thirds, title animations and simple motion design
• Experience with content management systems and email marketing platforms
• Strong copywriting and editing skills
• Working knowledge of project management methodologies
• Demonstrated professional experience within higher education in either a graphic design or communications capacity

The Office of the Provost is committed to the growth and professional development of the Academic Operations team and will provide opportunities to foster a culture of learning and career development during your tenure in the Office of the Provost.

FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: No

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement:  Hybrid - Enjoy the flexibility and balance of in-person and remote work Candidates should be based within commuting distance of Richmond, Virgina, as on-site presence will be required at the manager's discretion in order to address key project milestones. 

University Job Title: Communications Specialist CM 1-3 (13221-13223)

Contact Information:
Contact Name: David Slipher
Contact Email: slipherd@vcu.edu