Art Director

About the position

This position is a vital force in advancing the ministry of Awana by bringing the power of visual storytelling to life, creating engaging and impactful discipleship resources that inspire and equip children, leaders, and churches worldwide. With a passion for the gospel and a heart for ministry, this role leads the creative vision and execution of designs that meet ministry objectives in compelling ways. Collaborating closely with and serving cross-functional teams—including marketing, messaging, and donor development—this position ensures a cohesive brand identity that reflects the mission of Awana. Through innovation and excellence in visual storytelling, this role plays a crucial part in expanding the reach and impact of the Awana ministry across the globe. This position is primarily remote with occasional travel required based on strategic organizational meetings. Primary travel locations would be our offices in St. Charles, IL or Nashville, TN.

Responsibilities

• Establish and uphold the Awana visual identity across all print, digital, and multimedia platforms.
• Lead the conceptualization and execution of high-impact design projects that align with the ministry's mission and goals.
• Guide the design direction for campaigns, curriculum, and marketing initiatives.
• Oversee and mentor a team of designers, ensuring excellence in creative execution.
• Manage workflows, priorities, and deadlines to ensure timely delivery of projects.
• Collaborate with vendors, freelancers, and agency partners as needed.
• Partner with marketing, content, donor and product development teams to create engaging, mission-driven visuals that accomplish ministry objectives.
• Support internal stakeholders by translating strategic goals into compelling creative solutions.
• Ensure alignment between visual content and storytelling efforts across the Awana platforms.
• Maintain and evolve the Awana brand guidelines to ensure consistency and relevance.
• Stay informed about design trends and emerging technologies to enhance creative approaches.
• Implement innovative design strategies that fit our relevant markets and enhance user experience and engagement.
• Lead the design and production of digital, print, and video assets with hands-on oversight and creative direction.
• Ensure high-quality execution of materials, balancing creativity with ministry and business objectives.
• Manage budgets and resources for creative projects.

Requirements

• Minimum 7 years of experience in graphic design, art direction, or a related creative field.
• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience managing designers, creatives, or cross-functional teams.
• Experience creating new brands or leading rebrands.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain brand guidelines while effectively communicating brand elements and their significance to both team members and external partners.
• Experience in a ministry, nonprofit, or faith-based organization is a plus.
• Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) desired with a concentration in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or similar from an accredited college or university.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, etc.).
• Knowledge of print and digital production processes, including working with vendors.
• Intermediate Google Suite skills.
• Strong understanding of branding, typography, layout, and UX/UI principles.
• Valid State driver's license.
• US Passport Required.
• General understanding of the Bible and the Christian Church in its various expressions preferred.
• Experience with Awana Club, curriculum, resources, & solutions is a plus.
• Eligibility to work in the United States is required; this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a ministry, nonprofit, or faith-based organization.
• Experience with Awana Club, curriculum, resources, & solutions.

Benefits

• Medical, dental & vision health insurance.
• Paid family leave.
• 401(k) & Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans with employer match.
• Generous paid vacation & holidays.
• Adoption assistance.
• Employee wellness program.