Associate Creative Director, Art (Social)

VML; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative agency is looking for an Associate Creative Director to lead social media campaigns. This role requires a concept-driven individual with a strong design sensibility and a deep understanding of the social landscape. You will mentor a team of creatives, collaborate with various stakeholders, and engage with clients to deliver impactful work. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in social media, a strong portfolio, and a passion for culture and branding. Join a passionate team committed to extraordinary work in a hybrid work environment that values inclusivity and connection.

Benefits

Health Coverage

401k Match

Paid Time Off

Ongoing Training

Qualifications

• 7+ years in agency focusing on social media campaigns.
• Strong portfolio showcasing social media concepts.

Responsibilities

• Lead visual direction for social-first campaigns.
• Oversee a team of creatives on social content.

Skills

Social Media Campaigns

Creative Concept Development

Visual Strategy

Adobe Creative Suite

Communication Skills

Collaboration

Cultural Awareness

Tools

Figma

After Effects

Job description

Associate Creative Director, Art (Social)

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About VML

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

Who We Are Looking For

VML is seeking an Associate Creative Director (Art) for our Los Angeles office. As the ACD focusing on social media, you will help steer the creative vision for our social content. You should be concept-driven, craft-obsessed, and bring fresh thinking, a strong design sensibility, and a deep understanding of the social landscape. Bonus points if you are versed in shooting, editing, and creating content yourself. You will lead and mentor a team of designers and art directors, collaborate with copy and strategy, and partner closely with clients to deliver on-brand, on-trend, and timely work.

What You'll Do

• Big idea thinking: Lead the visual direction and execution of social-first campaigns across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and emerging channels.
• Manage: Oversee a team of creatives on organic social evergreen and campaign-driven social.
• Concept: Develop creative concepts and visual strategies for social media campaigns across various platforms.
• Create: Concept bold, engaging ideas that drive conversation and cultural relevance.
• Craft: Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in social media and digital marketing.
• Client facing: Regularly connect with clients to build trust and present work, explaining the creative's 'why'.
• Collaborate: Work with creative leads, copywriters, strategists, producers, and social managers to bring ideas to life.
• Cultivate: Stay ahead of platform shifts, language trends, and creative best practices.

What you'll need

• Minimum 7 years' experience in an agency setting focusing on social media campaigns.
• Strong portfolio showcasing social media concepts and visual executions.
• Deep knowledge of social platforms and effective visual strategies for each.
• Experience with influencer campaigns, UGC, or creator-led content.
• Understanding of paid vs. organic social strategies.
• Highly collaborative, ego-free, and receptive to feedback.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines, manage multiple projects, and collaborate in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Passion for culture, design, branding, and their intersection in social media.
• Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite; experience with Figma, After Effects, or similar tools is a plus.
• Automotive experience is a plus.

What we offer

• Passionate, driven team committed to extraordinary work.
• Inclusive culture emphasizing connection, positivity, and active listening.
• Competitive benefits including health coverage, 401k match, and paid time off.
• Growth opportunities with ongoing training and feedback.

The base salary range is $75,000-$180,000 USD, with individual compensation based on various factors. We offer a hybrid work approach and are committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity.