Senior associate creative director, Brand & Design Systems - Global Creative Studio

Now Brewing – senior associate creative director, Brand & Design Systems - Global Creative Studio! #ToBeAPartner

From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by their service to others.

The Starbucks Creative Studio is on a mission to build world‑class creative from the inside out. We’re an in‑house creative studio who care deeply about brand, craft, storytelling, and creating solutions that actually move people. Our mission? To raise the bar on what in‑house creative can be—and then raise it again.

We’re looking for a senior associate creative director to join the team. Someone who’s equal parts visionary and team‑builder. Someone who can lead a team, push the work, and make the creative process feel like a good time. You’ll guide a team of passionate creatives in developing & directing the Starbucks brand expression, design systems, packaging and the associated tools used to educate and guide others.

You’ll be part of the team that defines how Starbucks shows up around the world.

As a senior associate creative director, Brand & Design Systems you will:

Like a boss (but not like a boss). You’ll mentor, inspire, and help them grow into their best creative selves (including overseeing their day‑to‑day workload and fostering their professional growth and development).

You’ll guide problem solving, concepting, execution and consultation across brand design, design systems (packaging and signage), brand experiences and more. Provide clear and constructive creative direction and feedback. You will be the architect and also deliver presentations that demonstrate strong strategic foundations to support the creative vision. You’ll keep it on‑brand and consistent, but never boring.

You’ll collaborate with cross‑functional teams, agency teams, creative production and project managers to make sure everything aligns, sings, and ships on time.

You’ll help us evolve how Starbucks shows up in the world—visually, emotionally, and experientially --- continuously seeking out and embracing opportunities to enhance the brand.

You will be part of the creative team that spans the entire brand, meaning you are comfortable leveraging your background in graphic design, brand identity, typography, layout, retail experience, art direction, storytelling and ability to craft influential presentations.

• You’ve got 10+ years of creative experience in design, branding, advertising, or marketing. Agency or in‑house—either works, as long as you’ve led teams and made great stuff.
• You speak fluent Adobe Creative Suite & Figma, and you’ve got a portfolio that proves it.
• You know how to present creative work like a pro—clear rationale, strategic thinking, and just enough flair.
• You’re obsessed with details, but never lose sight of the big picture.
• You’ve got a sixth sense for design and what makes people feel something.
• You’re a natural mentor, a strategic thinker, and a creative soul who knows how to jump in and get things done.

• This role is based in Seattle. We’re in‑office, in the mix, and in it together.
• You’ll be part of a team that’s redefining what in‑house creative can be.
• We care about our people. We treat each other with respect, kindness, and a shared commitment to doing great work.
• If you read all this and thought, “This sounds like my kind of gig,” then we want to hear from you.

• 10+ years progressive experience in design/marketing/advertising…