Starbucks is hiring: lead/AD (art director), Creative Studio in Seattle

Now Brewing – lead/AD (art director), 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.

We’re not just brewing coffee. We’re brewing culture.

Starbucks Creative Studio is on a mission to build world‑class creative from the inside out. We’re an in‑house crew of makers who care deeply about craft, storytelling, and creating work that moves people. Our goal? Raise the bar on what internal creative can be—and then raise it again.

The lead/AD will work with the in‑store experiences squad. Someone who loves design, thrives on collaboration, and knows how to make ideas look amazing. You’ll concept and craft seasonal campaigns, packaging, cards, in‑store creative, signage (digital, motion design and print), and whatever else we dream up. You’ll flex between designing hands‑on and leading projects from concept to completion to bring the Starbucks brand to life.

What you’ll do

• Design like a pro. Jump into the work with a sharp eye for detail and storytelling.
• Lead projects. Own the creative development from kickoff to final delivery—concepts, photography, motion design, layout—driving the project and keeping everything on‑brand and on point.
• Collaborate like crazy. Partner with ACDs (associate creative directors), project managers, copywriters, designers, producers, and cross‑functional teams to make sure everything aligns, sings, and ships on time.
• Push boundaries. Help evolve how Starbucks shows up visually, emotionally, and experientially.
• Keep it fresh. Bring cultural and design trends into the work in smart, unexpected ways.

We’d love to hear from people with

• 8+ years of art direction experience at an agency or in‑house creative team.
• Fluency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, XD) and Figma.
• Experience art‑directing complex campaigns, photoshoots, motion design and production—portfolio evidence.
• Obsessed with craft and details but never losing sight of the big picture.
• Strong presentation skills—clear, strategic, and engaging.
• Thrives in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment and can juggle multiple priorities without breaking a sweat.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts/Visual Design/Communication/Graphic Design, or equivalent experience.
• Mastery of creative and design principles applied to production.
• Graphics file creation for digital, social, media, packaging, and print.
• Attuned to cultural, consumer, and design trends; skilled at shaping concepts and aesthetics.
• Excellent communication and feedback skills with teammates and executives.
• High EQ and ability to build effective working relationships across teams.
• Understanding of integrated marketing components.
• Outstanding portfolio demonstrating a wide range of creative projects.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills; multitasking and meeting deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, lead and inspire in a team.
• Proficient with Mac programs and Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, XD, Acrobat, Creative Cloud, Procreate, After Effects, Premiere Pro, Opal, and Figma.

A few things to know

• Role based in Seattle. We’re in‑office, in the mix, and in it together.
• You’ll be part of a team redefining what in‑house creative can be.
• We care about people. Respect, kindness, shared commitment to great work.

Applicants should include a link to your portfolio with your application.

Benefits

As a Starbucks partner, you (and your family) will have access to medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, and other voluntary insurance benefits. Partners have access to short‑term and long‑term disability, paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, paid vacation from date of hire*, sick time (accrued at 1 hour for every 25 hours worked), eight paid holidays and two personal days per year.

Starbucks offers a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, discounts on company stock, equity program, emergency savings incentives, and financial well‑being tools. The College Achievement Plan provides 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first‑time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program. Additional benefits include backup care and DACA reimbursement, and compliance with local laws regarding leave.

For more details, visit https://www.starbucksbenefits.com.

Starbucks Coffee Company is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal, state and local ordinances.

Starbucks Coffee Company is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at applicantaccommodation or 1(888) 611-2258.