Art Director

Art Directors design print and digital storytelling presentations for editorial and custom content teams across multiple Crain brands. Reporting to the Design Hub, this role works with editors, reporters, content managers, copy editors, and other creative professionals in a fast-paced newsroom environment. Art Directors are responsible for designing and delivering engaging visual presentations that align with each brand’s identity, connect with brand-specific audiences, and enhance the overall reader experience.

Responsibilities:

• Design high-caliber creative print and digital presentations by guiding the visual storytelling in all phases from conception to publication. 
• Communicate design concepts and pitches to relevant stakeholders. 
• Collaborate with editorial teams, custom teams, freelance photographers, and illustrators to create cohesive and impactful experiences across platforms. 
• Maintain a consistent and efficient workflow for design projects across brands to meet deadlines. 
• Offer design support to team members and help review projects, when needed. 
• Take ownership in fulfilling daily web art and graphic requests from editorial teams across multiple brands. 
• Discuss ongoing projects with direct supervisor and apply feedback when advised. 
• Assist with copy editing duties when designing print publications by rewriting web headlines, adding complete display type, and helping proof pages as needed. 
• Stay on top of team updates and actively participate in training sessions for new digital tools. 
• Become familiar with products produced by all Crain brands.

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in visual journalism, graphic design or a related field. 
• 3+ years of experience in news design or graphic design with a focus on business news. 
• Ability to translate complex ideas into visually compelling and accessible designs. 
• Strong understanding of typography, layout, color theory, and other design principles. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in a hybrid work environment. 
• Experience in content management systems such as Drupal, WordPress or Arc XP. 
• Experience in design software such as Adobe CC (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.). 
• Strong time-management skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. 
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team setting. 
• Positive and collaborative attitude. 
• Experience working in a news production hub environment or with marketing clients. 
• Strong understanding of news judgment and basic copy editing experience. 
• Proficient with basic SEO practices and best digital design practices.

Position will work hybrid from our Chicago office.