Senior Director, Visual Design & Brand Strategy

Socket.dev; Nashville (TN); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The Senior Director of Visual Design at Vanderbilt University leads a growing DAR visual communications program, delivering donor-centered, strategic design across print and digital media. The role partners with DAR and MarComm to elevate the university’s brand and storytelling.

Responsibilities include shaping visual strategy, guiding a team of designers, and producing engaging materials that inspire philanthropy and demonstrate impact.

Qualifications

• Eight years of design experience in higher education or nonprofit context.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced design degrees are a plus.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating strategic visual systems and branding.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to lead multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and design tools; production timelines experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a cohesive visual identity aligned with Vanderbilt brand.
• Lead artistic strategy and design concepts for divisional initiatives.
• Produce visuals across print and digital media; oversee video direction.
• Collaborate with DAR partners and MarComm to ensure cohesion.
• Mentor a small team and manage multiple projects and resources.
• Ensure brand compliance across all communications and campaigns.

Skills

Adobe Creative Suite

Visual design

Leadership

Project management

Communication skills

Data visualization

Portfolio development

Brand strategy

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Outlook

Job description

The Senior Director of Visual Design at Vanderbilt University leads a growing DAR visual communications program, delivering donor-centered, strategic design across print and digital media. The role partners with DAR and MarComm to elevate the university’s brand and storytelling.

Responsibilities include shaping visual strategy, guiding a team of designers, and producing engaging materials that inspire philanthropy and demonstrate impact.