Group Head Art Director

Publicis Groupe Holdings B.V; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global communications firm is looking for a Creative Group Head specializing in Art Direction in Johannesburg. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in the agency setting and at least 2 years in a senior role, leading innovative creative projects. You will mentor junior team members, develop visual concepts, and work collaboratively across disciplines to drive brand success. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and a strong design portfolio are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in an agency setting.
• At least 2 years in a senior art direction role.
• Proven track record of leading successful creative projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of visual concepts for advertising campaigns.
• Mentor junior creatives and designers.
• Collaborate with copywriters and designers for cohesive storytelling.

Skills

Art direction

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Leadership

Education

Tertiary qualification in Graphic Design, Art Direction, Fine Arts or related field

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe InDesign

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Company description

Publicis Groupe is a global leader in communication. The Groupe is positioned at every step of the value chain, from consulting to execution, combining marketing transformation and digital business transformation.

Overview

As a Creative Group Head specializing in Art Direction, you will assist in leading our passionate and multi‑talented studio, guiding junior and mid‑weight members to deliver exceptional, integrated concepts that exceed client briefs and expectations. You will embrace modern marketing principles and be a proactive self‑starter who is not afraid to challenge the norm, embodying our philosophy of divine discontent.

You are expected to be a craft‑led, platform‑neutral conceptual thinker, with a strong understanding of all major social platforms. Your goal is to transform brands by creating exceptional, intuitive, and human‑centred products and experiences.

You will be attuned to all aspects of South African popular culture and the platforms and media it engages with. You should have a strong point of view on what it takes to succeed in this space, backed by your experience. Immaculate art direction ability is paramount.

You will work closely with the Creative Director and the creative teamRESET to develop and execute visual concepts for various projects. This role requires a keen eye for design, strong псcommunication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of visual concepts for advertising campaigns, branding projects, and other creative initiatives.
• Conceptualise and optimise campaign creative for TTL campaigns across verticals such as SEM, display advertising, social media, affiliate marketing, content discovery platforms, and CRM.
• Mentor and guide junior creatives, designers and art directors הויך fostering a collaborative and inspiring work environment.
• Be a champion for digital innovation on every project.
• drummer collaborate with copywriters, designers, and other team members to ensure cohesive and compelling visual storytelling.
• Work with other disciplines (Strategists, Developers, Media, Accounts, etc.) to ensure cohesive team integration and alignment with broader business objectives.
• Present creative concepts and design solutions to clients, articulating the strategic thinking behind the work.
• Ensure all visual materials align with brand guidelines and project objectives.
• Stay updated on industry trends, design techniques, and emerging technologies.
• Lead brainstorms, conceptualisation, and shutter art direction for ideas.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and maintaining high‑quality standards.
• Participate in pitches for new business opportunities and contribute innovative ideas.
• Attend client briefings and workshops.
• Oversee the creative process from concept to final execution, ensuring consistency and excellence in all deliverables.
• Source inspirational materials and references to push creativity and innovation within the team.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in Graphic Design, Art Direction, Fine Arts or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in an agency setting, including at least 2 years in a senior art direction role.
• Proven track record of leading successful creative projects and campaigns.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite – Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign.
• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of design work and conceptual ATL and digital creative projects.
• A minimum of one gold award at 리스트 a local or international award show.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrate exceptional strategic and highly conceptual thinking.
• Good understanding of influencer, mobile, podcast, out‑of‑home, guerrilla, activations, and direct marketing.
• In‑depth understanding of new and existing digital platforms.
• Track record of leading the conceptualisation and execution of campaigns.
• Ability to work collaboratively and take constructive feedback.
• Exceptional problem‑solving and leadership skills.

Software & Tools

Must have a working knowledge of the following tools:

• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe InDesign
• Keynote
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Adobe After Effects (advantageous)