Onward Search is hiring an Associate Creative Director for an Agency client in Charlotte, NC on a direct-hire basis.
Note: This position is remote for now but will eventually be back on-site, in the office. Fully remote candidates will not be considered. This position does not provide relocation.
Summary: The Associate Creative Director is responsible for leading all aspects of their team and a set group of clients. The ACD has an art direction, design, or writing background and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of their team’s work including art direction, design, and copy, as well all relevant mediums regarding the brand work, advertising, digital and social content that is needed. The ACD works closely with the Chief Creative Officer (CCO) to implement the creative vision for the agency and collaborate on different projects.
The ACD must be open to feedback and have a good understanding of strategy and all forms of relevant media. The ACD will be responsible for evaluating briefs and thinking strategically regarding their team’s work to ensure it is on brief. The ACDs role is a balance between management of their team and their work and being an expert at executing their discipline as needed. The ACD is responsible for the oversight of your team’s creative product and ensuring it meets the agency’s standards.
Job Objectives & Responsibilities:
Direct the creative product developed by your team and strive for excellence in everything from concept to on-schedule completion of every project
Helps set creative direction and provides hands-on guidance throughout the project life cycle Demonstrates a cohesive understanding of, and can execute on, the principles that lead to innovative, effective digital communications and concepts for all mediums
Able to split their time as needed between managing their team and their work and executing work
Must be an expert in their craft of art direction and design
Has a strong understanding of branding and can direct all aspects of the work from art direction and design to copy
Leads by influence to consistently inspire creative colleagues to create world-class ideas that provide world-class solutions for our clients
Generates and cultivates useful and usable ideas across existing and emerging digital platforms
Continually develops new ways to inspire and harness creative thinking
Develops solutions that have a positive impact on our clients’ businesses and a positive cultural impact for consumers
Understands strategy and can articulate strategies to peers and clients
Has extensive knowledge of all creative disciplines, including copy, art direction, design, UX, video, and motion, and of the roles they play in both conceptual and executional work
Leads by influence and sets professional standards for their team
Takes personal responsibility for on-time, expertly crafted ideas, and deliverables
Has the ability to lead 5+ creatives on an ongoing basis while still being able to execute work on their own
Supports the CCO on new business and special projects, including relationship development and presentations
Proactively researches and pursues ideas for professional development. Seeks out creative mentorship and inspiration
Actively trains and mentors all levels of creative talent, helping develop their skills and performance
Acts as a career manager and is responsible for providing annual reviews, onboarding new employees, and coaching for both soft and hard skills
Prepares special projects and reports as directed by Position Supervisor, President or CEO
Will be trained to assist with other departmental and agency functions on an as-needed basis
Always conveys a professional and courteous attitude toward clients, co-workers, and guests
Maintains a healthy attitude toward your job, makes suggestions to improve the agency’s overall performance and attends weekly Account Management meetings
Complies with all company policies and procedures
Qualifications & Knowledge:
7+ years of agency experience with 3+ years managing a small team
Award-winning portfolio showcasing a range of mediums with a focus on video, digital, social, and general advertising campaigns
Exceptional presentation skills
Embodies professionalism and demonstrates mature presence in all aspects of team and client relationships
Well-versed in communicating vision, setting creative direction, and managing a group of cross-disciplinary teams
A thorough understanding of digital media and an ability and desire to adapt to the changing landscape of technology and media
Illustration and solid animation skills a big plus
Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail
