Associate Creative Director, Art (Los Angeles Based)

ICF • Los Angeles, CA

3d • $118,807 - $201,971 • Remote

About The Position

ICF Next is seeking an Associate Creative Director, Art to lead major creative assignments across diverse client portfolios. The role develops visual concepts and campaign systems that build brands, clarify complex topics, and motivate people to act. It spans integrated campaigns, social content, and video storytelling across platforms, audiences, and sectors, with a focus on strong ideas, exceptional craft, and confident creative leadership.

The Associate Creative Director partners with copy, strategy, account teams, and production; presents work to clients; mentors the art team; and directs designers, makers, and external partners. The role leads day-to-day creative practice, manages complex stakeholder needs, and helps senior leaders maintain creative standards and develop talent. For select accounts, ICF is seeking candidates based in the Los Angeles metro area with local market knowledge and the ability to connect with regional clients and communities.

Requirements

• 7+ years of relevant creative experience in an agency or studio, including demonstrated leadership.
• A strong portfolio rooted in art direction, visual concept, design craft, and integrated campaign work.
• Strong conceptual thinking and visual storytelling skills.
• Confidence directing integrated work across art and copy.
• Ability to give clear, useful creative direction.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• A collaborative approach and sound judgment.
• Agility in dynamic, high-pressure environments.
• Passion for craft, design, and the details that make an idea stronger.
• Ability to inspire others while staying close to the work.
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Experience developing behavior-change campaigns that motivate measurable action.
• Experience working across private- and public-sector clients.
• A degree in art direction, design, or a related discipline—or equivalent professional experience.
• Fluency in emerging creative technology, including AI-supported workflows.
• Los Angeles metro area location and strong local market knowledge for select accounts.

Responsibilities

• Lead visual concepts and art direction for major assignments across diverse client portfolios.
• Translate briefs into strong ideas, campaign visuals, and cohesive design systems.
• Direct integrated work across digital, social, video, experiential, and earned media.
• Protect the visual integrity of ideas from concept through production.
• Guide and mentor art directors and designers toward stronger execution.
• Partner with copywriters and strategists to shape clear, compelling stories.
• Present work persuasively to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Lead multiple assignments with urgency, quality, and limited oversight.
• Help maintain creative standards, develop talent, and strengthen collaboration.

What This Job Offers

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