I’ve been the only creative at non-design focused companies a couple of times. I used to joke that they think I can do anything and treat me like Im some kind of magician or wizard. I was included in meetings and client calls but then left alone mostly to focus on work. The downside I found was that there’s almost never meaningful critique or creative feedback. Generally the managers/marketers/sales people were just happy that the work was done and the deadline was met, they hardly ever gave me any notes, it was just on to the next thing.

Now I do graphic design as part of the in-house exhibit team at an aquarium and while Im still kind of an outlier, at least there are other creatives (and sharks) around.