A creative director is a person that makes high-level creative decisions, and with those decisions, oversees the creation of creative assets such as advertisements, products, events, or digital elements. Creative director positions are often found in software development, web/app design, manufacturing, graphic design, film, music, video game, fashion, advertising, media, or entertainment industries.

The creative director may also assume the roles of an art director, copywriter, or lead designer. The responsibilities of a creative director include leading the communication design, interactive design, and concept forward in any work assigned.

What exactly does a creative director do?

A creative director determines the creative vision of a brand or project and manifests that vision through digital, print, and more. The job is to maintain a cohesive look and feel of a project by ensuring the visuals, messaging, and interactive and motion designs are on point. A creative director also establishes budgets and timelines and manages client relationships.

What skills do you need?

Besides creativity, you need humility, perspective, openness, and resolve — and the wisdom to know which to employ and in what combination. It would help if you had a good dose of doubt. Doubt causes you to question your assumptions and evolve your thinking.

You also need knowledge of art history, design history, pop culture, and counterculture. You have to keep up on art, technology and trends.

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