Innovation Content and Visual Designer

We are a forward-thinking innovation and venture team within Contango, a market leading consultancy based in the Middle East. Our focus is on driving innovation through programs, workshops, venture studios, Intellectual property development, and accelerator initiatives. We are dedicated to transforming ideas into impactful solutions and are seeking a talented Content Creator and Visual Designer to join our dynamic team on a contract basis, with the potential to transition into a full-time role.

Position Overview:

The Content Creator and Visual Designer will play a critical role in developing engaging content and compelling visuals for our innovation programs, workshops, venture studio projects, and accelerator content. This role requires a unique blend of creative writing and design skills, along with a deep understanding of the innovation and venture ecosystem. The ideal candidate is a native English speaker with extensive experience using design tools and a proven ability to produce high-quality visual and written content.

Key Responsibilities:

Content Creation:

1. Develop clear, concise, and engaging written content for innovation programs, workshops, venture studio initiatives, and accelerator materials.
2. Create content that resonates with target audiences, including entrepreneurs, investors, corporate partners, and stakeholders within the innovation ecosystem.
3. Collaborate with other team members to create market research reports, case studies, innovation content, infographics, etc. to be published online and in other mediums for client and public consumption.
4. Develop an operating model that allows for teams to rapidly generate feedback, reports, etc. derived from surveys, in person interviews, workshops, etc.
5. Collaborate with subject matter experts to ensure content accuracy and relevance.

Visual Design:

1. Design visually compelling graphics, presentations, infographics, and marketing materials that align with brand guidelines.
2. Utilize advanced design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, InDesign) to produce high-quality visuals for digital and print media.
3. Enhance user experience through effective visual communication in all content deliverables.

Program Support:

1. Assist in the development of program materials, including agendas, workbooks, and participant guides for workshops and events.
2. Design templates and frameworks that can be used across various programs and initiatives.
3. Support the creation of pitch decks, investment memos, and other collateral for venture studio projects.
4. Work closely with cross-functional teams, including innovation managers, program directors, and marketing specialists.
5. Participate in brainstorming sessions to generate creative ideas and concepts.
6. Provide input on content strategy and contribute to editorial planning.

Quality Assurance:

1. Proofread and edit content to ensure grammatical accuracy, clarity, and consistency.
2. Ensure all visual designs meet high-quality standards and are delivered on time.

Market Research:

1. Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in innovation and venture ecosystems.
2. Apply insights from research to enhance content relevance and effectiveness.

Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field or relevant and demonstrable work experience.

Experience:

1. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in content creation and visual design within an innovation, venture capital, startup, or related environment.
2. Proven experience producing content for innovation programs, workshops, venture studios, or accelerators.
3. A strong portfolio showcasing written work and design projects relevant to the innovation or venture industry.
4. In depth knowledge of operational excellence, lean canvas, product design methodologies, etc. UI / UX design experience an added plus.

Skills and Competencies:

1. Advanced skills in design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Sketch, Figma, or similar software.

Writing Skills:

1. Exceptional writing and editing abilities with a keen eye for detail; native English speaker.

Creative Thinking:

1. Ability to generate innovative ideas and translate complex concepts into accessible content.

Project Management:

1. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Communication Skills:

1. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.

Understanding of Innovation Ecosystem:

1. Familiarity with startup methodologies, innovation processes, and venture ecosystems.
2. Flexibility to adjust to changing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment.

Digital Literacy:

1. Knowledge of content management systems (CMS) and basic HTML/CSS is a plus.

Other Requirements:

1. High level of professionalism, initiative, and self-motivation.
2. Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team.
3. Experience with video editing and motion graphics is an advantage.