Associate Creative Director (Art)

VML Canada (English) • Toronto, ON

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

VML 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• The base salary for this position at the time of this posting may range between the values at the bottom of this posting. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed