Senior Graphic Design Manager

Overview:
Rapha is seeking a Senior Graphic Designer to lead and elevate its Graphic Design function. This pivotal role involves close collaboration with Head Designers to shape and define Rapha's graphic design language across various product categories. Projects range from special edition releases and seasonal prints to graphic packs and professional cycling team kits. This is a unique opportunity to drive the graphic direction for both on-bike and off-bike products.

We are looking for an experienced professional with deep expertise in graphic and print design and proven leadership abilities. The ideal candidate will naturally inspire and motivate the design team to produce outstanding work with efficiency. Strong storytelling skills, coupled with the ability to translate 2D concepts into physical products, are essential. Success in this role also requires expertise in printing and dye techniques, along with a keen eye for integrating graphics, trims, and finishes into cohesive collections.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary representative of the graphic design team within the broader business, acting as the main point of contact for cross-functional teams.

• Allocate projects to graphic designers based on their strengths and suitability, ensuring high-quality, on-brief, and timely delivery.

• Lead and drive the design creation process for the graphic design team, from integrating briefs and conducting research to ideation, conceptualization, and final design, ensuring a seamless handover to the development teams.

• Collaborate closely with the Head Designers to establish the graphic identity and language for Rapha's collections, special projects, and Pro Teams, with support from the graphic designers.

• Develop graphic identities that evolve over time, incorporating storytelling, visual innovation, and brand recognizability.

• Collaborate closely with the Head Designers to support key milestones, such as Seasonal Kick-offs, by contributing to the development of concepts and narratives for the season through visualizations and presentations.

• Actively engage with the Design Team in weekly collaborations by sharing and critiquing work, contributing fresh ideas, and fostering a culture of creative synergy and teamwork.

• Participate in weekly meetings with cross-functional development teams to ensure the successful progression of designs through engineering. Update tech packs as needed and provide creative solutions to address challenges that arise during the development process.

Ideal Candidate:

• 7+ years of experience as a Graphic Designer in a related role within the design, fashion, or performance sports industry.

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Illustrator and Photoshop; knowledge of 3D visualization software is a plus.

• Demonstrated ability to translate 2D CAD designs into 3D products effectively, with extensive industry experience.

• Meticulous attention to detail, ensuring work aligns with the highest standards and brand identity.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work seamlessly across diverse teams.

• Proven leadership experience, including managing designers and fostering their development and career growth.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with a proactive approach to prioritizing and adapting to changing demands.

• Ability to thrive under tight deadlines while delivering consistently high-quality work.

This role offers the chance to join a dynamic, forward-thinking team and shape the graphic design strategy for Rapha's high-performance products. If you’re passionate about design, graphics, and print, this is your opportunity to influence the future of Rapha’s Graphic design.

Working at Rapha 

We are continuously looking into ways to invest in our employees and build a better working culture and environment. Here are just some of the internal benefits we offer.

• Flexible working hours
• Support ad-hoc remote working during the week - Minimum 3 days in office
• Free barista coffee and social drinks in the office
• Monthly department social events and quarterly office social away days
• We offer a flexible riding benefit to allow you to go out riding on a Wednesday morning with colleagues or learn to cycle to cycling through our Getting Started Scheme.
• We offer all our employees a 50% apparel discount and a discount for family and friends
• An annual clothing allowance
• Free membership to the Rapha Cycling Club
• Company Pension Scheme
• Enhanced Parental Leave and Pay