Communications Designer ( Philanthropic Focus )

Mission Statement 

The mission of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.

Summary

Reporting to the Program Manager, Creative Communications, the Communications Designer develops a variety of visual communication materials for Institutional Affairs, with a focus on design support for fundraising initiatives from the Philanthropy Office. Develops creative concepts and visual assets that ensure and maintain MD Anderson’s brand and visual identity, and as needed, provides art direction in photography and oversees print production.

The ideal candidate will have an Associate’s degree or higher and a proven track record in developing content for fundraising initiatives. They should be skilled in creating or designing invitational layouts and have hands-on experience with Adobe Creative Cloud. Proficiency with Apple Mac computers is also needed. Additionally, the candidate must be based in or around the Houston area to ensure close proximity for collaboration and traveling to on-site events as needed.

Key Functions

The Communications Designer, under the direction of the Program Director, Creative Communications, is responsible for designing visual communications materials for the institution’s Philanthropy office and Institutional Affairs that adhere to MD Anderson’s visual brand standards. The job requires excellent interpersonal skills, independent planning and problem-solving skills. Must function with high levels of productivity, ensuring that multiple jobs on tight deadlines are managed efficiently. Must possess the ability to take creative direction and collaborate as part of a team.

Creative/Visual Design:

• Supports a wide range of design requests for professional digital and print projects including invitational collateral for major fundraising and cultivation/stewardship events, fundraising support, direct mail marketing, advertising, donor reports, presentations, packaging, signage and digital projects, e.g., social media and web graphics.
• Articulates creative decisions and executes strategically and creatively at a high level.
• Ensures digital products comply with accessibility standards.
• Counsels on brand standards and delivers turn-key professional designs that strictly adhere to MD Anderson’s visual identity.

Art direction and production:

• Works with printing professionals to obtain quotes and conducts press checks as needed.
• Serves as liaison between clients and vendors, working to secure paper, explore various printing techniques and ensures files are optimized for digital, social, media, packaging and/or print.
• Schedules and art directs photo shoots as needed.
• Attends planning meetings, works closely with editors and writers, Manages workload effectively across multiple, large projects and programs with varying deadlines—supports project leads in developing timelines and defining expectations.

Strategic brand support and counseling:

• Possesses thorough knowledge of brand policies and standards.
• Provides support and information to internal and external customers related to brand inquiries and requests.
• Manages brand-specific promotional vendor communications. 

 Other duties as assigned