The primary role of a head of graphic design is to build and integrate the overall brand guidelines for the business.
Key Responsibilities of a Head of Graphic Design
Based on the core functions described, the head of graphic design serves as a crucial leader responsible for shaping and maintaining a company's visual identity. This role goes beyond simply creating designs; it involves strategic thinking and implementation across the organization.
According to the provided information, a head of graphic design is responsible for:
- Building Brand Guidelines: Defining the visual standards for the company's brand, including logos, color palettes, typography, imagery style, and overall look and feel. This establishes a consistent visual language.
- Integrating Brand Guidelines: Ensuring that the established brand identity is correctly applied across all relevant platforms and materials used by the business.
- Creating Initial Designs: Developing the foundational design elements and concepts that will form the basis of the brand guidelines and subsequent marketing materials.
- Demonstrating Brand Adoption: Showing stakeholders and other teams how the branding should be correctly applied to various collateral. This involves education and practical examples.
- Collaboration (Implicit): Although key stakeholders have final approval, the head of design works closely with them to refine and finalize the brand vision. They also likely collaborate with marketing, product, and other teams to ensure consistent application.
Practical Application
The work of a head of graphic design directly impacts how a company is perceived visually. They translate the company's mission and values into a compelling visual identity.
Consider these practical aspects of their role:
- Developing templates for presentations, social media posts, and advertisements that adhere strictly to brand standards.
- Reviewing designs created by other team members or external agencies to ensure brand consistency.
- Educating marketing teams on the correct usage of brand assets in campaigns.
- Working with web developers to implement brand guidelines on the company website.
- Presenting design concepts and brand strategies to executive leadership for approval.
Essentially, the head of graphic design acts as the guardian of the brand's visual integrity, ensuring everything from a business card to a major advertising campaign looks cohesive and represents the company accurately.
Summary Table: Core Functions
| Responsibility | Description | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Build Brand Guidelines | Define visual standards (logo, colors, fonts, etc.) for the entire business. | Establishes visual identity foundation. |
| Integrate Guidelines | Ensure standards are applied across all internal and external materials. | Promotes brand consistency. |
| Create Core Designs | Develop initial visual concepts and foundational assets. | Provides building blocks for the brand. |
| Demonstrate Adoption | Show teams how to correctly use brand elements in their work. | Facilitates correct brand application. |
By leading the development and implementation of visual brand standards, the head of graphic design plays a vital role in establishing a strong, recognizable, and consistent brand presence.
