Creative Director, Motion - The Heist

Thinkingbox•Chicago, IL

2d•$160,000 - $175,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Heist, the motion design, live action, and post-production studio within Thinkingbox, is seeking a hands-on Creative Director, Motion to join its Chicago team. The role leads a close-knit team of motion designers creating 2D and 3D motion graphics and animation for marketing campaigns and advertising projects across a diverse range of clients. The Creative Director reports to the Director of Animation and ensures each campaign's creative vision aligns with client goals. The position combines creative leadership with hands-on design and animation work, storyboarding, and client-facing collaboration. It also contributes to project budgeting and resource planning, and works with the motion team to develop processes and workflows suited to campaign needs.

Requirements

A portfolio showcasing refined taste in 2D and 3D motion design across varied marketing and campaign styles.
At least 8 years of experience in a motion design role, including at least 3 years in a leadership or senior capacity.
Strong proficiency in Cinema 4D and Redshift.
Ability to create clear storyboards and refined styleframes aligned with campaign goals.
Mastery of Adobe Suite, including After Effects, Premiere, Photoshop, and Illustrator, and a thorough understanding of the animation pipeline.
Strong design sensibilities and ability to combine aesthetic and technical skills.
Working knowledge of Figma.
Strong organizational skills and a solution-oriented approach to creative and technical challenges.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of XParticles, Marvelous Designer, and/or Houdini.
Curiosity and a desire to continue developing skills.

Responsibilities

Lead and inspire a nimble team of motion designers, guiding projects with strong creative direction.
Contribute hands-on in design or animation when needed.
Develop clear storyboards and polished styleframes that communicate each campaign's narrative and aesthetic.
Oversee and participate in creating campaign assets, including 2D and 3D animation, ensuring work aligns with brand guidelines and art direction.
Provide clear, actionable feedback to team members to support their growth and maintain high-quality work.
Engage directly with clients, interpret their needs, and provide creative insights throughout the project lifecycle.
Collaborate with the motion team on processes and workflows tailored to each marketing campaign.
Contribute to project budgeting and resource planning.