Graphic Designer

Facts. Analysis. Influence.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class independent and impartial analysis and provide insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies is looking to recruit a Graphic Designer to work with the Design department. This position will report to the Head of Design.

• Work with researchers to design stimulating graphics, transforming data sets from MS Excel into exciting content.
• Lead in typesetting across multiple large publications and reports. Proof files and send them to print as required.
• Transform print assets into fit-for-purpose digital assets for use across our social and digital channels.
• Support our events team in creating a variety of print and digital assets.
• Support our Corporate teams in creating PowerPoint presentations, Word templates and infographics.
• Be able to manage own workload with multiple projects running concurrently.

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Graphic Design.
• Advanced Adobe InDesign skills, including long-document workflows (master pages, book files, stylesheets, tables, indexing and endnotes).
• Proven experience typesetting complex, data-heavy publications with a high degree of accuracy.
• Excellent knowledge and experience using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator.
• Proven experience turning MS Excel data into compelling narrative, demonstrated through your portfolio.
• Strong experience working with large or complex datasets in MS Excel, including cleaning and structuring data for publication.
• Experience designing and formatting detailed tables and infographics.
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to proof and maintain consistency across multiple documents under tight deadlines.
• Solid understanding of print production processes, including preparing print-ready files and managing preflight checks.
• Experience working in fast-paced, deadline-driven publishing environments.

• Previous experience working for clients in the political, government, or non-profit sector and an interest in and understanding of security and geopolitical issues.
• An understanding of data design tools such as RAWGraphs, Flourish and MAPublisher.

The IISS provides a full employment package.

This position is for an initial three-month Fixed Term contract with the potential for renewal by mutual agreement.

Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ blue button above and follow the instructions to submit two documents:

• A cover letter outlining what skills and experience they can bring to the role, as well as salary expectations.
• A full Curriculum Vitae (resume), including details of two referees.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interview will be contacted.

The deadline for receipt of applications is