Job Information
Publicis Groupe Design Director -Freelance in Chicago, Illinois
Company description
Hi there! We’re Razorfish. We’ve been leading the marketing industry with our digital expertise since the start of the internet. But in 2020, we did a full reboot. What’s different? It all starts with people. Weird, wonderful, complex people - with diverse backgrounds in strategy, creative and technology. But no matter how different we are, we all have one thing in common. We believe our differences are our strength. So we push for inclusion, challenge convention and bring in new perspectives, to inspire new ideas. Because when we connect by understanding what makes people different, we can create unforgettable experiences that enrich lives. Join us at razorfish.com.
Overview
The Design Director (Freelance) is a hands‑on design leader who turns complex business and customer needs into clear, compelling creative work. You’ll partner closely with Strategy, Account, Creative, and Production, to deliver high‑quality work that meets brand standards.
You will flex both your leadership and execution skills, leading projects through each step of the design process from concepting through final execution, all while remaining deeply involved in the craft.
Responsibilities
Lead design from early concepts through final delivery, staying hands‑on throughout
Collaborate early with cross‑functional partners to ensure design is built in from the start
Own design quality across brand, digital, and campaign work, using design systems and guidelines
Design alongside your team, giving clear, practical feedback and direction
Balance multiple projects with speed, rigor, and strong attention to detail
Present work confidently to senior stakeholders, clearly explaining design decisions
Treat the brief as a starting point and push toward smarter, more distinctive solutions
Create a supportive, inclusive environment where good ideas can come from anywhere
Qualifications
8+ years of hands‑on design experience (agency, in‑house, or both)
Experience working on Fortune 50 brands is strongly preferred, but not mandatory
Strong foundation in design systems, typography, layout, color, and accessibility
Expert in Adobe Creative Suite and Figma; comfortable working within brand guidelines
Motion design and/or 3D experience is a plus
AI tool/Workflow experience is a plus
A portfolio that shows strong craft, clear thinking, and problem‑solving
High standards, sharp attention to detail, and genuine passion for the work
Additional information
The Power of One starts with our people! To do powerful things, we offer powerful resources. Our best-in-class wellness and benefits offerings include:
Paid Family Care for parents and caregivers for 12 weeks or more
Monetary assistance and support for Adoption, Surrogacy and Fertility
Monetary assistance and support for pet adoption
Employee Assistance Programs and Health/Wellness/Comfort reimbursements to help you invest in your future and work/life balance
Tuition Assistance
Paid time off that includes Flexible Time off Vacation, Annual Sick Days, Volunteer Days, Holiday and Identity days, and more
Matching Gifts programs
Flexible working arrangements
‘Work Your World’ Program encouraging employees to work from anywhere Publicis Groupe has an office for up to 6 weeks a year (based upon eligibility)
Business Resource Groups that support multiple affinities and alliances
The benefits offerings listed are available to eligible U.S. Based employees, are reviewed on an annual basis, and are governed by the terms of the applicable plan documents.
Razorfish is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our employment decisions are made without regard to actual or perceived race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, medical condition as defined by applicable state law, genetic information, marital status, military service and veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws and ordinances.
If you require accommodation or assistance with the application or onboarding process specifically, please contact USMSTACompliance@publicis.com.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Compensation Range: $81/hr - $103/hr. This is the pay range the Company believes it will pay for this position at the time of this posting. Consistent with applicable law, compensation will be determined based on the skills, qualifications, and experience of the applicant along with the requirements of the position, and the Company reserves the right to modify this pay range at any time. Temporary roles may be eligible to participate in our freelancer/temporary employee medical plan through a third-party benefits administration system once certain criteria have been met. Temporary roles may also qualify for participation in our 401(k) plan after eligibility criteria have been met. For regular roles, the Company will offer medical coverage, dental, vision, disability, 401k, and paid time off. The Company anticipates the application deadline for this job posting will be 5/5/2026.