ENVIRONMENT: BE responsible for brand integration in student-centric initiatives while managing a team of Creatives as you take on the role of a Creative Lead at a leading Private Academic Institution based in Joburg. You will develop compelling brand narratives as you plan and execute impactful multi-channel marketing campaigns that elevate the institution’s brand awareness and engagement, including digital, social media, print, video, and experiential initiatives. Applicants will need a Master’s/Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design/Marketing/Fine Arts, or a related field with 8+ years of work experience in a Senior Creative role, ideally in Higher education or a student-focused industry. You must have expert proficiency with Figma & Adobe Creative Suite. A portfolio demonstrating expertise in brand storytelling, digital design, and multimedia content will be expected.   DUTIES: Responsible for Brand Identity – Define brand. Develop compelling brand narratives. Develop and maintain comprehensive brand guidelines covering all aspects of visual and verbal identity, ensuring consistent implementation across all platforms and materials. Reflect the institution’s core values of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in Higher Education. Brand narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, including students, parents, educators, and industry stakeholders Remain a leader in its industry.   Management – Budgets – Planning (business and operational plans, objectives and schedules) – Plan and execute impactful multi-channel marketing campaigns that elevate the institution’s brand awareness and engagement, including digital, social media, print, video, and experiential initiatives. Resourcing – Ensure resources are allocated efficiently to maximize impact. Objective setting – Set key performance indicators (KPIs) for creative outputs, using data to assess campaign effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement. Execution Monitoring – Control, Corrective action – Act as the creative quality gatekeeper, providing constructive feedback to ensure all creative output meets standards of excellence and aligns with the brand guidelines. Review and approve all creative deliverables, from digital assets like social media posts and email templates to large-scale productions like video campaigns and outdoor advertising. Continuously refine creative outputs based on feedback and performance metrics, ensuring the brand remains relevant and impactful in a competitive landscape. Reporting – Provide regular updates and presentations to senior leadership, showcasing the impact of creative initiatives and recommending future strategies. Workflow / Alignment / Silos – Work in close partnership with key marketing functions such as Content Strategy, Digital Strategy, and Campaigns to deliver seamless, integrated campaigns. Collaborate with academic, admissions, and student experience teams to ensure the brand story is carried through in student-facing materials, from prospectuses to orientation guides. Liaise with external creative agencies and production partners to supplement internal resources and achieve optimal results for large-scale projects. Act as the creative voice in strategic meetings, advocating for innovative approaches and emphasizing the importance of storytelling in achieving marketing objectives. Problem solving and decision quality, including escalations, queries and complaints. Resourcing and capacity management (people; infrastructure; systems; technology; equipment; information; facilities). Operational efficiency (processes / governance / systems / standards / policies / compliance / methodologies). Introduce processes and workflows to streamline creative operations, ensuring timely delivery without compromising quality. Governance and Compliance / Risk Management Structure and roles. Leadership – Direction and contribution to Marketing strategy – Creative strategies that align with broader marketing goals, supporting key initiatives such as student acquisition, retention, alumni engagement, and corporate partnership. Talent acquisition, selection, onboarding and succession / bench strength. Individual performance – role clarity and objectives; reviews; feedback; corrective actions. Skill levels – Training & Development. Culture and climate. Inspire and mentor the creative team by fostering a culture of innovation, curiosity, and continuous learning, encouraging team members to push boundaries and explore new ideas. Change capability – resilience, flexibility, adaptability. Team Remuneration.   REQUIREMENTS: Qualifications – Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Fine Arts, or related field; Master’s degree is a plus.   Experience/Skills – 8+ Years of experience in a Senior Creative role, ideally in Higher education or a student-focused industry. Proven track record of leading and developing Creative teams in fast-paced, innovative environments. Exceptional portfolio demonstrating expertise in brand storytelling, digital design, and multimedia content. Strong understanding of digital and traditional marketing channels, with the ability to adapt creative strategies for different platforms and audiences. Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills. Expert in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite. Experience working with diverse audiences and creating culturally sensitive and inclusive content. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing creativity with project timelines and objectives.   ATTRIBUTES: Action orientation. Leadership. Collaborative relations and teamwork. Effective communication. Analysing and problem solving. Innovation, adaptability and change – passion for creativity and innovation. Planning and organising. Resilience and coping with pressure and setbacks. Commercial and entrepreneurial approach.