Creative Director jobs and careers

A career in creative direction is typically an agency role, but you can also work directly for one business. A Creative Director is responsible for defining the creative direction across a range of channels as well as being a crucial part of the senior or exec team. A Creative Director could work across a wide variety including advertising campaigns, branding, digital (web, social, direct marketing, user interface, app). They could be above the line, below the line or fully integrated in delivery. As a managerial position, the Creative Director will usually head up a multi-disciplinary team of Artworkers, Copywriters, Designers and Art Directors.

Why consider a career as a Creative Director?

Creative direction gives you the opportunity to lead, hire and manage creative teams, define concepts, pitch for new business and contribute to strategy.

What a career or job as a Creative Director may entail…

The Creative Director will often be the most senior creative position within a studio. They will lead a varied team that may include Graphic Designers, Digital Designers, Copywriters, Art Directors, Artworkers, Motion Graphics Designers and film and video professionals.

Every Creative Director role is different, but will typically focus on concept creation, business development, management and leadership. They will be the mind behind the ‘big idea’ and use their team to implement their vision.

Typical role titles include

Creative Director
Associate Creative Director
Executive Creative Director

Career progression example

Senior Art Director
Associate Creative Director
Creative Director
Exec Creative Director

Salary Benchmarks

At an entry level on average, you will be earning between £50k-£60k. At the mid-level you’d be looking to earn £60k-£70k and seniors would be looking to earn £70k+.

Is it right for me? The skills it takes…

Conceptual ability is key, you should have a wide understanding and knowledge of design, marketing and writing to be able to effectively lead and direct the creative process. You will typically need to be client-facing and confident in business development. You’ll need to be comfortable managing others, handling budgets and contributing to a senior agency team.

What qualifications does it take?

You will usually need a foundation degree or diploma within a relevant subject. For example, these could include graphic design, graphic communication, illustration, art, creative writing, marketing or branding.

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