A Creative Director, also referred to as a Design Director, is the creative head of a design firm, design department or ad agency. The Creative Director typically manages creative staff, oversees vendors, photographers, printers and all those working on a project. He or she will also work with account executives and clients to make sure all needs are met and usually has the final creative authority.
This position requires strong people, persuasion and presentation skills to be able to keep clients and staff satisfied.
Creative Directors will create proposals, pitch ideas and overall ensure the project stays on track. They will keep team member on deadline, lead brainstorming sessions, conceptualize ideas, assign projects to staff and meet with all stakeholders in a project or campaign.
This position requires strong people, persuasion and presentation skills to be able to keep clients and staff satisfied. In addition, an extensive knowledge of graphic fundamentals, print and web capabilities, as well as marketing and advertising principles, are beneficial.
In general, the Creative Director position requires a degree in graphic design, art, communications or a related field. In addition, 5 to 10 years of experience in design, brand development and project management is generally preferred. Many Creative Directors start their careers as Graphic Designers.