Associate Creative Director

Digital Management - Bethesda, MD

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Bethesda, MD

1,001-5,000 employees

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

DMI is seeking an Associate Creative Director who will play a pivotal role in developing impactful work that meets project goals and aligns with client brand requirements. This position involves leading the creative process from concept to execution, ensuring that all work is innovative and meets the highest standards. The Associate Creative Director will be responsible for guiding teams through creative concepting, execution, and delivery, while also managing client relationships and providing solutions that advance their agendas. The role requires a strong understanding of both digital and traditional marketing products, as well as the ability to stay current with emerging trends and technologies. In this role, the Associate Creative Director will encourage experimentation and creative exploration within the team, providing constructive feedback and mentorship to elevate the creative output. They will collaborate closely with account and project management teams to ensure that all creative work meets client objectives and is delivered on time and within budget. The Associate Creative Director will also be responsible for building a trusting relationship with their team, driving goal setting, performance reviews, and promoting a culture of excellence and innovation. DMI values technology as a key component of creative solutions, and the Associate Creative Director must be passionate about leveraging technology to enhance brand and marketing experiences. This position is remote, allowing for flexibility while still engaging with a diverse and talented team.

Responsibilities

• Encourage experimentation, creative exploration, and growth within the team.
• Constructively critique the work of team members to enhance quality.
• Communicate effectively with clients, defending creative choices and providing rationale for decisions.
• Collaborate with Creative Director(s) and team members to create concepts that meet client needs.
• Guide teams through creative concepting, execution, and delivery according to project schedules.
• Stay informed about industry trends, audience insights, and production specifications to inform creative work.
• Manage creative staff and freelancers, ensuring their work meets DMI standards and providing constructive feedback.
• Mentor and inspire team members to maximize their potential and performance.
• Build trusting relationships with team members and consult on new hires.
• Drive goal setting, performance reviews, and promotion advocacy for team members.

Requirements

• 8+ years of relevant industry experience and proven leadership skills.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in visual communication design, advertising, or a related field.
• Extensive knowledge of digital display, video, and paid social media.
• Strong understanding of typography, color theory, and current design trends.
• Broad understanding of website development and UX/UI design, including WCAG and ADA requirements.
• Proficient in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Acrobat Pro), Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Workspace.
• Working knowledge of digital and prototyping tools like Figma.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with emerging technologies in creative solutions.
• Familiarity with various marketing channels and best practices.

Benefits

• Generous 401k matches for both pre-tax and post-tax contributions.
• Financial wellness education and support.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Annual performance management and continuing education opportunities.
• Tuition assistance and internal job opportunities for career advancement.
• Healthcare benefits and wellness programs, including flu shots and biometric screenings.
• Employee recognition programs, including annual awards and peer-to-peer acknowledgment.