Asst./Director, Creative Services and Events

The Director of Creative Services will lead a core functional group responsible for the development and production of all creative work across packaging, sales, tradeshow and consumer facing communications materials. This leadership position oversees all phases of the creative process to produce high quality, strategically grounded creative which includes all Events and Tradeshows from concept to completion. Delivers creative across all product brands and maintains and evolves the brand guidelines that govern the creative elements.

Manages a team of project managers and coordinators as well as outside vendors. Not only ensures the department runs effectively, but creates an environment that inspires creativity and the best design and copy from his/her team. Reports to the VP, Marketing and works collaboratively with Marketing, Sales and Merchandising and Product teams to facilitate a productive relationship and flow of ideas. Effectively communicates design ideas and responds quickly to business needs. Possesses energy, passion, and a desire to deliver innovative successful solutions for internal clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop and deliver thought leadership and creative solutions that strengthen clients market distinction and leadership position

Inspire and guide both internal and external teams to creative excellence as both a mentor and a contributor

Foster teamwork to set an environment conducive to idea exchange, support and fun.

Mentor directs with career and skills development

Interact effectively with all levels of management and staff

Understand business context and goals for creative efforts. Solid understanding and appreciation for the distinction between creative expression and business objectives

Direct and execute graphic design projects such as packaging, advertising, video production, POP materials and other promotional content

Collaborate with Marketing teams to ensure consistency across channels (ie: development of style guides, manage the corporate branding ID, etc)

Assure creative standards are met

Collaborate with Marketing and Development to maintain and evolve efficient processes

Other related duties as required

Education and/or Experience:

Experience managing/leading design teams throughout a project lifecycle

Outstanding interpersonal skills with an ability to communicate clearly and concisely and a willingness to share ideas with individuals at all levels

Enjoy demonstrating initiative and creativity, excel at originating ideas, anticipate and implement next steps, generate improvement opportunities and translate new ideas into workable solutions

Strong problem solving skills, ability to understand and identify key strategic issues, and develop creative design solutions to assignments

Experience enforcing branding/identity style guide

Expert level experience with latest

Adobe Creative Suite software, including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign

Must have creative ability to produce effective, exceptional and eye-catching work

Highly organized, with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines

Ability to develop and maintain processes that provide efficient structure to align business and creative needs with sales, marketing and other departments

An impressive portfolio that emphasizes traditional print, advertising, video, corporate communications, and interactive design

7+ years of design

Ability to manage, train, and grow staff in a fast-paced company; 5 - 7+ years managing and developing a team both internally as well as outside vendors in an Creative team environment

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; A leader who inspires and motivates, and who can give clear and constructive direction to creative team

Creative thinker with a passion for innovation; Ability to take direction and to run with projects to complete closure on a proactive level

A good eye for design and typography