Senior Art Director – Campaign & Brand Storytelling

VML

Toronto

On-site

CAD 120,000 - 180,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

VML in Toronto seeks an Associate Creative Director, Art, to shape visual strategies and lead high-profile campaigns. You will translate strategic insights into compelling design, guiding art direction across broadcast, digital, social, and owned properties.

You will collaborate with an Copy ACD, strategy, and accounts to refine cohesive concepts, while mentoring teams to deliver exceptional work that aligns with client brand guidelines and drives business impact.

Qualifications

8+ years of experience as an Art Director or visual creative lead within an advertising agency or similar environment.
A stellar portfolio showcasing conceptual thinking, strategic problem-solving, and 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.

Responsibilities

Lead the translation of strategic direction into award-winning visual concepts and campaigns across broadcast, digital, social, and owned properties.
Partner 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.