Publications and Design Manager

Colchester Institute; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Colchester Institute is seeking an experienced Publications and Design Manager to lead print, design, photography and print advertising across the College. You will manage publications from briefs and copy development through to design, production and final sign-off.

This pivotal role sits in the Marketing team, coordinating with senior stakeholders to deliver on-brand materials for student recruitment, employer engagement and the college's wider reputation. A portfolio submission is required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' management experience in creative/marketing/publications.
• Proven expertise in producing printed publications and managing design/photography with suppliers.
• Outstanding copywriting and proofreading skills with experience adapting content for print and digital.
• Strong organisational and project management across complex schedules and multiple stakeholders.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and brand management.

Responsibilities

• End-to-end project management of publications and campaigns.
• Workload prioritisation and quality control across outputs.
• Guidance and support to deliver high-volume, high-quality graphic design and photography.
• Strategic planning and creative direction for publications and campaigns.
• Lead a small creative team and coordinate with senior stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Graphic design

Copywriting

Project management

Editorial judgement

Education

Degree in Graphic Design

GCSEs (5 grades 9-4)

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Print production

Job description

We are seeking an experienced, imaginative and highly organised Publications and Design Manager to lead and manage all print, design, photography and print advertising activity across the College. Job Title: Publications and Design Manager FTE: £37,710.40 - £41,231.32 0.4 CONTRACT, Monday and Friday Note: All applications for this role will also require a portfolio submission. This is a pivotal position within our Marketing team, responsible for graphic design, copy and content for on-brand publications and creative assets that support student recruitment, employer engagement and our wider college reputation. You will create college publications and print advertising cycle, from writing clear project briefs and developing copy, through to design, photography, production and final sign-off. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence will ensure every output is consistent, creative and impactful.

Key outputs include: Annual prospectuses Flyers, posters and banners Print and online marketing materials Photography and creative assets for integrated campaigns Leadership & Strategy Managing a small, talented creative team, you will provide: Strategic planning and creative direction End-to-end project management Workload prioritisation and quality control Guidance and support to deliver high-volume, high-quality graphic design and photography You will work closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation, building strong relationships to plan and deliver compelling content that meets both strategic objectives and operational needs.

This role would suit an experienced and highly organised Graphic Designer ready with leadership experience. Most importantly, you will combine creativity with precision, ensuring every publication and designed marketing content reflects the quality, ambition and professionalism of Colchester Institute.

Essential Experience:

• Minimum 5 years' management experience within a creative, marketing, publications or communications environment, with a background in Graphic Design.
• Proven expertise in producing and managing printed publications (including prospectuses and brochures), overseeing design and photography functions, and working with external print suppliers.
• Outstanding copywriting and proof-reading skills, with extensive experience adapting creative content for both print and digital channels.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, able to manage complex schedules, competing deadlines and multiple stakeholders, including senior leaders and curriculum teams.
• A collaborative, detail-driven team player with strong editorial judgement, brand management expertise and advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (grades 9-4/A
• Degree in Graphic Design, relevant subject to the requirements of the role or relevant industry experience

We do not engage with recruitment or search agencies unless they have been officially contracted in line with our PSL.

Join Colchester Institute - Where Your Career Makes a Difference

At Colchester Institute, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. As one of the leading providers of education and training in the region, we are proud to offer a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking working environment. Are you a creative leader with a passion for powerful design and compelling storytelling? Do you thrive on delivering high-quality publications that inspire, inform and influence? If so, Colchester Institute is looking for you.