Associate Art Director - McKinley Marketing Partners

The Associate Art Director will play a key role in defining the visual identity and managing the creative process from concept to execution. This position is responsible for leading the creative direction and style of content and marketing campaigns across various regional and global platforms. The Associate Art Director will develop and implement visual design elements for both still and video content, ensuring they align with the brand’s vision and objectives while adhering to budget and timeline constraints for impactful results. The role includes managing a team of graphic designers, mentoring direct reports, and collaborating with external agencies to create compelling campaign concepts.

Responsibilities:

• Develop engaging marketing assets for digital platforms and retail partners (web, social, eCommerce, email, ads) ensuring cohesive and polished deliverables on time.
• Collaborate with senior marketing leadership to create innovative ideas and visual themes for campaigns.
• Translate internal stakeholder goals into clear creative direction and solutions.
• Refine creative concepts to align with brand identity and project objectives.
• Partner with external agencies to maintain consistent brand quality and visual tone across all materials.
• Manage external collaborators, ensuring their work meets brand standards and project needs.
• Organize and oversee video and content shoots, supporting in-house content creation as needed.
• Develop shot lists and production plans for seasonal campaigns and product launches.
• Act as a creative liaison for stakeholders and agencies, facilitating feedback and strategy adjustments.
• Approve designs and final artwork to maintain high visual standards.
• Handle multiple projects under deadlines, producing quality creative assets for various campaigns.
• Lead and mentor creative team members, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Stay informed about industry trends and incorporate relevant ideas into projects.
• Modernize brand guidelines and propose new creative initiatives to strengthen brand positioning.
• Support packaging design as needed.

Qualifications:

• BA or BS required; Graphic Design degree preferred.
• Minimum 5+ years in a graphic design role.
• Experience in CPG, Branding, or Retail is a plus.
• Proven success in creating visual brand identities.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating work with CPG brands, including packaging, campaigns, digital/print ads, and social media.