Sr. Art Director, Packaging

Summary

Marcom is the creatively-led global team that oversees Apple’s consumer facing marketing. We ensure the flawless development and execution of world-class communications across all medias and platforms. Every day, hundreds of millions of Apple customers around the world interact with our products. We drive the strategy and creative work that provide both new and existing customers with simple, engaging and inspiring marketing experiences.

The Design Team is responsible for the design and art direction of core communications, including product launches and seasonal campaigns, across Retail, Channel, Packaging, Keynote, and Events. Working in a highly collaborative environment, the Design Packaging team defines the look and feel of all Apple Product Packaging.

Description

As a Senior Art Director on the Packaging Design team, you will create innovative, compelling work from initial ideation through final production. In this role, you will develop new art direction, graphic design, and illustration approaches while maintaining and elevating the quality of existing design systems across global product packaging for one of the world’s most recognizable brands.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation and art direction of packaging design solutions, from brainstorming through production, in close collaboration with cross-functional partners.
• Inspire and mentor the creative team while staying hands-on in the work, guiding junior staff and Marcom partners with thoughtful feedback and direction.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing strategic objectives with meticulous attention to detail, including final review of print mechanicals prior to production.
• Deliver clear, persuasive creative presentations to design team leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and new direction, pivoting strategically without losing momentum.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 10 years of experience in design, packaging, and art direction, with a proven ability to develop innovative creative work across packaging and print media.
• A portfolio that showcases deep expertise in branding, typography, photography, and print production.
• Proven experience in print production techniques, including foils and embossing, with meticulous attention to detail through light-room review and mechanical sign-off.
• Expert skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) and Keynote.
• Strong design leadership skills, with the ability to guide and redirect creative development, mentor junior creatives, and manage freelancers and vendors.

Preferred Qualifications

• Comfortable using AI tools to develop and communicate concepts.
• Working knowledge of 3D and motion tools (e.g., KeyShot, Cinema 4D, After Effects).
• Illustration skills.
• Clear, confident communicator who can present ideas, engage in constructive debate, and take directional feedback across all levels of the organization.
• Collaborative problem-solver with strong organizational habits and the ability to keep work structured and team-accessible.
• Genuinely curious about design, art, architecture, technology, culture, and trends across packaging, branding, retail, and social media.