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What a graphic designer does
A graphic designer produces visual work that communicates ideas — from brand assets and adverts to layouts, packaging and digital graphics. The role turns a brief into clear, purposeful design.
It combines creativity with practical craft: interpreting requirements, exploring options, refining based on feedback and preparing final files for print or screen. The focus varies between print, digital and brand work.
Core responsibilities
- Interpreting briefs and understanding the goal.
- Creating layouts, graphics and visual assets.
- Applying typography, colour and brand guidelines.
- Presenting concepts and refining based on feedback.
- Preparing final files for print or digital use.
- Managing assets and version control.
- Collaborating with marketing, content and other teams.
Skills and qualities
- A strong eye for layout, type and colour.
- Proficiency with design software relevant to the role.
- Creativity balanced with attention to the brief.
- Ability to take and apply feedback well.
- Organisation and good file management.
- Communication when presenting ideas.
- A portfolio that shows relevant work.
Typical employers and settings
- Design, digital and creative agencies.
- In-house marketing and brand teams.
- Publishing, media and print businesses.
- Technology and consumer-goods companies.
- Freelance and studio settings.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are advertised directly or filled through creative recruiters.
- Screening centres on a portfolio alongside a CV, plus right to work.
- Interviews discuss the portfolio, process and approach to briefs.
- Some processes include a design exercise or test brief.
- Onboarding covers brand guidelines, tools and the team.
Documents involved
- A job description outlining the design focus.
- A CV and a portfolio of relevant work.
- An employment contract including any rights and confidentiality terms.
- An offer letter confirming role, level and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- An onboarding checklist for software and brand assets.
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