Creative Group Head

Who We Are
At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

About The Role
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and ambitious Creative Group Head (Art-Based) to lead and inspire a team of art directors and designers. This pivotal role is ideal for a seasoned Senior Art Director ready to take the next step in their career, bringing a blend of strategic insight, impeccable aesthetic judgment, and emerging leadership skills. You will be instrumental in shaping the visual identity and creative output for one of our most significant global accounts, driving compelling campaigns that resonate with target audiences in a dynamic and often complex market landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Creative Leadership & Mentorship: Lead, inspire, and mentor a team of art directors and designers, fostering a culture of creative excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Concept Development: Drive the ideation and conceptualization of groundbreaking visual campaigns, translating strategic briefs into innovative and impactful creative solutions.
• Art Direction & Execution: Provide hands-on art direction and oversee the visual execution across all touchpoints – including digital, print, experiential, OOH, and video – ensuring brand consistency and the highest standards of craft.
• Client Collaboration: Build strong relationships with senior client stakeholders, presenting creative work with conviction, articulating strategic rationale, and effectively navigating complex brand challenges and strategic objectives within specific industry frameworks.
• Strategic Thinking: Collaborate closely with strategy and account teams to develop creative strategies that align with business goals and effectively address the unique considerations of our client's brand.
• Quality Control: Ensure all creative output is meticulously crafted, adheres to brand guidelines, and meets the agency's and client's high standards for quality and effectiveness.
• Trend Awareness: Stay abreast of the latest design trends, technological advancements, and cultural shifts, integrating fresh perspectives and innovative approaches into our creative work.
• Project Management: Work seamlessly with production, project management, and other creative disciplines to ensure timely delivery of projects within budget.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive experience as an Art Director, with significant time spent as a Senior Art Director, ideally within a leading creative agency.
• A proven track record of mentoring junior creatives, providing constructive feedback, and taking ownership of major project deliverables. Ready and eager to step into a formal leadership role.
• A stellar portfolio showcasing exceptional art direction, design prowess, conceptual thinking, and a diverse range of successful campaigns across various media.
• Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and a strong understanding of digital design tools, motion graphics, and UI/UX principles.
• Significant experience in developing impactful campaigns for global brands, particularly those operating within nuanced or highly regulated consumer environments.
• A deep understanding of responsible marketing practices and brand building within specific adult consumer categories.
• Strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate creative vision and rationale clearly and persuasively.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to translate complex business objectives into compelling visual narratives.

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

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