Senior Director, Creative Direction

Universal Orlando•Orlando, FL

About The Position

The Senior Director, Creative Direction leads the creative vision and strategic direction for a portfolio of experiences across Universal Destinations and Experiences. The role guides projects from ideation and initial concept through opening day, with a focus on storytelling, innovation, and guest engagement. The Senior Director oversees creative development, including concept creation, narrative design, creative quality, and the overall guest experience. Working closely with intellectual property owners, cross-functional teams, and executive leadership, the role shapes project stories, aligns goals, and guides execution of the creative vision. As a leader in Universal Creative’s Creative Studio, the Senior Director manages the Creative Direction discipline across assigned projects, mentors and guides staff, and supports high standards of creative excellence across Universal Destinations and Experiences portfolios.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Theater, Art, Film, Architecture, or a related field.
15+ years of art direction or production design and field experience based on Universal Creative standards; experience designing experience-based entertainment for world-class theme parks or related industries; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee, support, and guide Creative Directors on assigned projects from ideation, feasibility, concept, schematic design, and design development through delivery.
Develop the overall design process and strategy with studio leadership peers.
Direct the conception, development, and definition of creative aspects affecting the guest experience; drive creative design through all project phases and encourage exploration of options to determine the best project direction.
Serve as the vision-keeper for assigned projects by communicating, inspiring, and maintaining project intent among team members; guide story development to preserve creative intent and deliver the intended guest experience.
Partner with the Show Producer to execute the intended creative direction; lead and creatively direct project design teams; mentor design staff; and direct other Creative Directors and Art Directors.
Develop and produce internal and external presentation and communication materials, including design development materials, physical and digital media, video, and key visuals.
Interpret and apply information such as market research, business practices, and executive design presentations to design documentation and deliverables.
Serve as project liaison with internal and external partners, licensors, and intellectual property owners as needed; interface with senior management, clients, partners, and Universal division stakeholders.
Oversee and coordinate presentations and approvals with intellectual property holders.
Understand and participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policies, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.