Associate Creative Director (Art)

VML South Africa; Toronto; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

VML South Africa is looking for an Associate Creative Director of Art to drive impactful creative work for high-profile campaigns. You will lead visual and conceptual strategies, collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure memorable brand storytelling that resonates with audiences.

The role demands 8+ years in advertising and a strong portfolio, with competitive compensation ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 CAD, and offers hybrid work arrangements.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience as an Art Director or visual creative lead in an advertising agency.
• Proven track record of leading high-profile campaigns.
• A stellar portfolio showcasing conceptual thinking and strategic problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead the translation of strategic direction into award‑winning visual concepts.
• Partner with copywriters and account leads to develop cohesive creative concepts.
• Direct campaign asset creation, overseeing art direction, design, and production.

Skills

Strategic problem-solving

Visual storytelling

Team collaboration

Client presentation

Creativity and innovation

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Figma

Job description

Associate Creative Director, Art

VML, part of WPP, is seeking an Associate Creative Director of Art (+ ACD, Copy partner) who is ready to do the best work of their career and drive meaningful impact. In this role, you will shape the visual and conceptual vision for high-profile campaigns, translating strategic insights into compelling design and art direction. You will elevate the conceptual craft of the agency, build trusted relationships with clients, and ensure our visual storytelling connects authentically with audiences to drive measurable business outcomes.

What You'll Do

• Lead the translation of strategic direction into award‑winning visual concepts and campaigns across broadcast, digital, social, and owned properties.
• Partner seamlessly with an ACD of Copy, as well as strategy and account leads, to develop, refine, and elevate cohesive creative concepts.
• Direct campaign asset creation from a visual perspective, overseeing art direction, design, photography, illustration, and video shoot production.
• Champion the client’s brand identity and visual guidelines, ensuring all creative output drives business impact and resonates with the target audience.
• Collaborate closely with production, technology, and account teams to manage the seamless delivery of online and offline assets.
• Present visual narratives and design concepts confidently in client pitches, building trusted relationships with key stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous innovation, leading by example through the quality of your work and your approach to problem‑solving.

Who You Are

• You approach problem‑solving with a strategic, curious mindset, consistently finding clear and innovative visual solutions to complex challenges.
• You foster a highly collaborative, inclusive environment, leading with empathy and a user‑centered perspective to bring out the best in your team and cross‑functional partners.
• You thrive in ambiguity and champion bold, brave ideas, taking ownership of the creative process to push boundaries and deliver exceptional work.

What You'll Need

• 8+ years of experience as an Art Director or visual creative lead within an advertising agency or similar environment, with a proven track record of leading high‑profile campaigns.
• A stellar portfolio showcasing conceptual thinking, strategic problem‑solving, and beautifully crafted art direction across traditional and digital spaces.
• Deep expertise in visual storytelling, design principles, typography, and adapting visual systems for different brands and audiences.
• High proficiency in industry‑standard design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Figma) and a strong understanding of emerging digital technologies and social media trends.
• Outstanding presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex visual ideas clearly, persuasively, and succinctly to senior‑level clients.
• A mature, reasoned approach to client and internal feedback, using it collaboratively to push the work further.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment, successfully directing multiple projects simultaneously without sacrificing craft.

Compensation

The base salary for this position may range between $90,000 and $140,000 CAD, depending on location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications.

Work‑Location

The role is hybrid: teams work in the office an average of four days a week. Accommodations and flexibility are discussed during the interview process.

Equal Opportunity

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.