Associate Creative Director

VML•New York, NY

6d•$75,000 - $180,000•Hybrid

About The Position

VML is seeking an Associate Creative Director (Art) for our New York office. As the ACD focusing on social media, you will help steer the creative vision for our social content. Equal parts concept-driven and craft-obsessed, this person brings fresh thinking, a strong design sensibility and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving social landscape. Bonus points if you are versed in shooting, editing and creating content yourself. You’ll lead and mentor a team of designers and art directors, collaborate with copy and strategy and partner closely with clients to deliver work that’s on brand, on trend and on time.

Requirements

Minimum 7 years’ experience in an agency setting with a focus on social media campaigns.
Strong portfolio showcasing creative concepts and visual executions for social media platforms.
Deep knowledge of social platforms and what types of visuals perform well on each.
Excellent understanding of social media platforms, their respective audiences and best practices.
Experience working in or with influencer campaigns, UGC, or creator-led content.
Understanding of paid vs. organic social strategies.
Highly collaborative, ego-free, and comfortable giving and receiving feedback.
Ability to work under tight deadlines, manage multiple projects simultaneously and to work collaboratively as part of a larger team in a fast-paced environment.
Strong communication and presentation skills.
Passionate about culture, design, branding, and how they intersect in the social space.
Expert in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign); Figma, AfterEffects, or similar motion tools a big plus.

Nice To Haves

Bonus points if you are versed in shooting, editing and creating content yourself.
CPG experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead the visual direction and execution of social-first campaigns across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and emerging channels.
Oversee team of creatives on organic social evergreen and campaign-driven social.
Develop creative concepts and visual strategies for social media campaigns across various platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok).
Concept bold, engaging ideas that drive conversation and cultural relevance for clients.
Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in social media and digital marketing.
Regularly connect with clients to create a partnership that builds trust in our thought leadership and ideas. Present work to articulating the “why” behind the creative.
Collaborate with creative leads, copywriters, strategists, producers, and social managers to bring ideas to life.
Stay ahead of platform shifts, language trends, and creative best practices in the social landscape.