Shortform Creative Lead

Martell Media; Summerland; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Martell Media in Canada is seeking a Shortform Creative Lead to own and scale our short-form content strategy across TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, LinkedIn, and emerging channels. This role sits at the intersection of content strategy, creative direction, storytelling, and audience growth.

You will direct shoots, oversee editing, and coach our founder Dan on camera to ensure high‑performing content that drives engagement, reach, and business results.

Qualifications

• 3+ years leading short-form video content initiatives
• Proven experience with TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts
• Strong editing, storytelling and optimization skills
• Deep understanding of platform algorithms and audience retention
• Experience directing on-camera talent and working in fast-paced environments

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a high-volume short-form content strategy across multiple social platforms
• Direct on-camera talent and oversee shoots, including coaching the founder
• Shoot, edit, and optimize content for platform-specific performance
• Analyze performance data to improve engagement, watch time and conversions
• Collaborate with marketing and leadership to align content with business goals

Job description

Location: In-Office

Compensation: $75,000 - $85,000 CAD Base Salary + $18,000 variable

About the Role

We are looking for a highly creative and execution-focused Shortform Creative Lead to own and scale our short-form content strategy across platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, LinkedIn, and emerging social channels. This role sits at the intersection of content strategy, creative direction, storytelling, and audience growth. You will be responsible for identifying trends, developing content concepts, directing shoots, overseeing editing, and ensuring our content consistently drives engagement, reach, and business results. The ideal candidate understands platform algorithms, social media psychology, viral content mechanics, and how to transform ideas into high‑performing short‑form videos. Over time, you will become the primary creative partner responsible for directing and coaching our founder, Dan, on camera.

Responsibilities

Content Strategy & Ideation

• Develop and execute a high-volume short‑form content strategy across multiple social platforms.
• Research trends, audience behavior, platform updates, and viral content formats.
• Generate fresh content ideas aligned with company goals, brand positioning, and audience interests.
• Build content calendars and campaign concepts designed to maximize reach and engagement.

Creative Direction

• Lead creative planning and execution for short‑form video production.
• Direct on‑camera talent and eventually take ownership of directing Dan during content shoots.
• Create compelling hooks, storytelling frameworks, and content structures that retain viewer attention.
• Continuously test new formats, messaging angles, and creative concepts.

Video Production & Editing

• Shoot, edit, and optimize short‑form content for platform‑specific performance.
• Collaborate with editors or personally edit content when required.
• Ensure videos meet high standards for pacing, storytelling, visual quality, and audience retention.
• Maintain consistent publishing workflows and production efficiency.

Audience Growth & Performance

• Analyze content performance metrics and audience insights.
• Optimize content based on watch time, retention, engagement, and conversion data.
• Stay ahead of platform algorithm changes and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Contribute directly to audience growth, brand awareness, lead generation, and revenue‑driving initiatives.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with marketing, content, and leadership teams to align content with broader business objectives.
• Collaborate on campaign launches, product promotions, and brand‑building initiatives.
• Help establish and document creative processes, content frameworks, and best practices.

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of experience creating, producing, or leading short‑form content initiatives.
• Strong understanding of TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and current short‑form content trends.
• Demonstrated expertise in video editing, storytelling, and content optimization.
• Deep understanding of social media algorithms, audience retention, and growth strategies.
• Experience developing content concepts from idea through final publication.
• Strong communication and creative leadership skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑output content environment.

Preferred

• Experience managing or growing social media accounts with measurable audience growth.
• Personal social media presence or audience (5,000+ followers is considered a strong asset).
• Experience directing founders, executives, influencers, or on‑camera talent.
• Familiarity with analytics tools and performance reporting.
• Experience working in creator‑led, media, education, coaching, or personal brand businesses.