Head of Design & Art Direction

The Brag Media (part of Vinyl Group) is the biggest youth publisher in Australia, which has amassed a world-class portfolio of the most premium brands in publishing. We are immersed in culture — from music and film, gaming and anime, to streetwear and luxury. Our approach is authentic, entertaining, and optimistic.

Our mission is to be the most ubiquitous presence in Australian culture; its people, its artists & brands. Our editorial approach is to inspire, not divide.

Role Focus:

To lead, direct and champion our creative expertise and execution across Design and Art Direction.

The Head of Design and Art Direction is a pivotal role to our growing Vinyl Group & The Brag Media businesses. The role spearheads the overarching design, branding and art direction needs across Vinyl Group, Vampr, Media Week and The Brag Media; includes Rollingstone, Variety, Tone Deaf, The Brag, Hypebeast and more.

The Head of Design and Art Direction must be highly experienced to be able to interpret business, project and client needs to turn them into scoped out and compelling creative solutions. They will be well versed in working under tight deadlines while overseeing multiple projects. They will be a skilled and experienced manager of creative teams, including but not limited to: Art Directors, copywriters, content creators, graphic artists and designers. The Head of Design and Art Direction must be an effective communicator, especially when it comes to mapping out the needs and execution plan of design needs to key internal and external stakeholders.

Lead a high-performing Design Team:

• The internal expert and gate keeper of The Brag Media design guidelines, branding, look and feel.
• Provide leadership, creative direction and mentorship to Brag’s team of Designers. Ensure deliverables are met.
• Foster a collaborative environment that champions creativity, problem-solving, and exceptional execution.
• Ensure all creative outputs meet our premium, quality standards and brand identities.

Design & Art Direction Leadership and Expertise:

• Develop and explore practical ways to evolve our design capabilities, offering and expertise.
• Explore and establish relationships with 3rd party vendors, freelancers and resources.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across Vinyl group businesses and divisions.
• Help lead, advise and support broader team and stakeholder members on design across projects. 

Presale Workflow, Design Builds:

• Lead the effective workflow of the creative and design stages within the RTB process.
• Optimise and prioritise the workflow in real time, ensuring collaboration between Strategy, Design, Sales.
• Scope and quote any bespoke design projects or needs RBT’s to achieve the projects output and asks.

Project Execution and Management:

• Develop and execute the overarching creative vision and art direction for company marketing + sales collateral.
• Develop and maintain Vinyl Group + Brag Media brands branding and aesthetic in all internal & external outputs.
• Work with the Project Director to scope all design requirements on key client projects across content, video & events.
• Work closely with the Project Director on an aligned timeline for the project rollout, execution and delivery.
• Take responsibility for the creative vision + standard of output across all team members within the design team.
• Assign + prioritise the overarching design teams workload. Set up and support the team to ensure success + delivery.
• Apply people + team management skills in order to inspire, drive, hire and maintain a high level design division.
• Champion the management & communication of the design team tasks with key internal stakeholders & divisions.
• In non assigned projects, be an effective support to team members, providing guidance and help to achieve the goal.
• Work effectively with stakeholders to ensure an aligned and collaborative approach is maintained and rolled out.
• Collaborate closely with Project Leads to strategise and deliver feasible and impactful campaign solutions.

Working with the Rolling Stone Mag and Print (Bespoke Print Projects and Mini Zines):

• As the Rolling Stone magazines Art Director you’ll work with the Head Of Content on the mags production process.
• Assisting on page layout and final cover design, you'll help bring the mag to life with it’s signature RS Heritage look.
• You will work closely with the team to scope, map out timelines and achieve deadlines through the workflow process.
• You’ll have a creative and eagle eye,as you work with the team to develop the layout and design requirements.
• Oversee and work closely with the magazine and content team to roll-out the Issue campaign from start to finish.
• Work with the editorial team on supporting needs across printing, distribution and logistics.
• Collaborate with vendors and printers, ensuring control and smooth delivery across Australia.

You'll be a perfect fit if you:

• Experience 8-15+ experience in a creative agency, media house or publisher.
• 5+ years of experience leading a team of creatives/production members
• Experience with user interface design, motion graphics, social media marketing, video and animation.
• Experience in media, particular in pitching and the design of collateral for complex marketing campaigns.
• Have a proven track record of leading and inspiring creative teams, driving consistent high-quality output.
• Bring a blend of strategic thinking, creative vision, and business acumen.
• Demonstrate exceptional project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Navigate the dynamic media landscape with passion, possessing a deep understanding of our diverse brand portfolio.