π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Designer, Creative and Design
πΉ Company: Universal Music Group
πΉ Location: New York, New York
πΉ Job Type: Full-Time
πΉ Category: Creative, Design & Production
πΉ Date Posted: May 7, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 2-5 years
πΉ Remote Status: On-site
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Designing a wide range of materials for artists on the REPUBLIC Collective label roster
- Collaborating with creative and marketing teams to develop concepts and execute designs
- Keeping up-to-date with emerging trends in music and media content
- Contributing to brainstorming sessions and ideating artists' creative visions
- Working with senior executives and leadership across the organization
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of the creative process, from concept to execution, and the ability to work well with various teams and stakeholders.
π Key Responsibilities
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Design release artwork, music packaging, marketing collateral, social assets, internal communications, mood boards, and presentations for artists on the REPUBLIC Collective label roster
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Collaborate with creative and marketing teams to develop concepts and execute designs that align with the creative strategy of artist campaigns
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Stay informed about emerging trends in music, media content, and culture to keep teams updated and incorporate relevant elements into designs
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Contribute to brainstorming sessions and ideate artists' creative visions in partnership with creative and marketing teams and key senior executives
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Work with the team to brainstorm and ideate the artistsβ creative vision
ASSUMPTION: The role may require working on multiple projects simultaneously and meeting tight deadlines.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience: 2-5 years of experience in a design or content creation role
Required Skills:
- Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite design software (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) and proficiency in After Effects and Premiere (a plus)
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
- Ability to receive and act on constructive feedback in the creative process
- Knowledge of print production processes
- Awareness of social and music content trends
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working in the music industry
- Fluency in additional languages
ASSUMPTION: A strong portfolio demonstrating a mastery of typography, layout, impactful imagery, communication, and storytelling is essential for this role.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $54,000 - $90,000 per year
Benefits:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- FSA options, including 100% coverage for out-patient mental health services
- Wellbeing reimbursements for fitness classes, spa treatments, meal services, travel, and more (up to $720/year)
- Lifetime fertility support allowance of $30,000 to plan participants
- Student loan repayment assistance and tuition reimbursement
- 100% immediately vested 401(k) match on the first 5% of your contribution on eligible compensation
Working Hours: Full-time position with standard business hours, but may require flexibility to meet project deadlines
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for this role, experience level, and location. Actual offers may vary based on the candidate's qualifications and the company's compensation structure.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Music and entertainment
Company Size: 5,001-10,000 employees
Founded: Universal Music Group was founded in 1934 and has since grown to become the world's leading music company.
Company Description:
- Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries.
- UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world.
- The company fosters the development of services, platforms, and business models to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for its artists and create new experiences for fans.
Company Specialties:
Company Website: Universal Music Group
ASSUMPTION: Universal Music Group is a large, global organization with a strong focus on artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level designer with potential for growth and advancement within the creative department and the broader organization
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Creative Director of the REPUBLIC Collective label and works closely with creative and marketing teams across the organization
Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with the possibility of occasional remote work for specific projects or tasks
Growth Opportunities:
- Advancement within the creative department, such as senior designer or art director roles
- Expansion into other areas of the business, such as marketing, branding, or product development
- Potential to work with a diverse range of artists and contribute to high-profile projects
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic and creative environment.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Urban office environment in the heart of New York City
Office Location(s): 1755 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, USA
Geographic Context:
- New York City is a major hub for the music industry, offering ample opportunities for networking and professional development
- The office is conveniently located near public transportation, restaurants, and cultural attractions
- The city's vibrant arts and culture scene can inspire creativity and innovation
Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility to meet project deadlines
ASSUMPTION: The work environment is fast-paced, collaborative, and creative, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening with the HR department
- In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or creative team members
- Portfolio review and presentation (if applicable)
- Final interview with senior leadership
Key Assessment Areas:
- Design skills and portfolio quality
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with company values
- Problem-solving and adaptability
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Prepare a strong portfolio showcasing your design skills, creativity, and versatility
- Research the company and the REPUBLIC Collective label to demonstrate your understanding of the brand and its artists
- Be prepared to discuss your design process, inspirations, and how you incorporate feedback into your work
ATS Keywords: Designer, Creative, Design, Adobe Creative Suite, Typography, Layout, Imagery, Communication, Storytelling, Print Production, Social Media Trends, Interpersonal Skills, Creative Process
ASSUMPTION: The application process may take several weeks, and communication from the hiring team may be limited due to the high volume of applicants.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)
- After Effects and Premiere (a plus)
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, JIRA)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in additional design software or tools may be beneficial but is not required for this role.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Artistry: UMG fosters a culture of creativity and innovation, encouraging employees to push boundaries and express their unique voices
- Innovation: The company embraces change and continuously seeks new ways to engage fans and support artists' careers
- Entrepreneurship: UMG empowers its employees to take initiative, be proactive, and think like business owners
Work Style:
- Collaborative: The role requires working closely with various teams and stakeholders to develop and execute creative concepts
- Fast-paced: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, with tight deadlines and multiple projects running simultaneously
- Creative: The role demands a high level of creativity, innovation, and attention to detail
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a strong portfolio demonstrating a mastery of typography, layout, impactful imagery, communication, and storytelling?
- Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with tight deadlines?
- Do you have a deep understanding of the creative process and the ability to incorporate feedback into your work?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who align with UMG's core values and work style will be most successful in this role.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- The role may require working on multiple projects simultaneously, with tight deadlines and competing priorities
- The work environment can be fast-paced and demanding, with high expectations for creativity, innovation, and attention to detail
- The role may require occasional remote work, which can present unique challenges in terms of communication and collaboration
- The music industry is subject to trends and market fluctuations, which can impact the nature and volume of work
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to manage their time effectively, prioritize tasks, and work well under pressure.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on designing for the music industry and working with a diverse range of artists
- Compared to other design roles, this position offers the opportunity to work with high-profile clients and contribute to high-visibility campaigns
- Career paths within UMG may include advancement within the creative department, expansion into other areas of the business, or transitioning to a different label or division within the company
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider their long-term career goals and how this role fits into their overall professional development plan.
π Sample Projects
- Designing album artwork and packaging for a diverse range of artists, from established acts to up-and-coming talent
- Creating social media assets and marketing collateral for artist campaigns, including singles, EPs, and full-length albums
- Developing branding guidelines and visual identity systems for artists or labels
- Collaborating with photographers, illustrators, and other creatives to bring visual concepts to life
ASSUMPTION: The specific projects and tasks associated with this role may vary depending on the needs of the REPUBLIC Collective label and its artists.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the creative process for an artist campaign from start to finish?
- How does the REPUBLIC Collective label support and develop its artists' creative visions?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the creative department and the broader organization?
- How does the team collaborate and communicate to ensure projects are completed on time and to a high standard?
- What is the typical timeline for a project, from initial concept to final delivery?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should use the interview process to gain a deeper understanding of the role, the team, and the company culture.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Prepare a strong portfolio showcasing your design skills, creativity, and versatility
- Research the company and the REPUBLIC Collective label to demonstrate your understanding of the brand and its artists
- Follow up with the hiring team one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.