Group Head Art Director at Publicis Groupe

Overview

• As a Creative Group Head specialising in Art Direction, you will assist in leading our passionate and multi-talented studio, guiding junior and midweight members to deliver exceptional, integrated concepts that exceed client briefs and expectations. You will embrace modern marketing principles and be a proactive self-starter who is not afraid to challenge the norm, embodying our philosophy of divine discontent.
• You are expected to be a craft-led, platform-neutral conceptual thinker, with a strong understanding of all major social platforms. Your goal is to transform brands by creating exceptional, intuitive, and human-centred products and experiences.
• You will be attuned to all aspects of South African popular culture and the platforms and media it engages with. You should have a strong point of view on what it takes to succeed in this space, backed by your experience. Immaculate art direction ability is paramount.
• You will work closely with the Creative Director and the creative team to develop and execute visual concepts for various projects. This role requires a keen eye for design, strong communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Your duties will include but are not limited to:

• Lead the development and execution of visual concepts for advertising campaigns, branding projects, and other creative initiatives.
• Conceptualising and optimising campaign creative for TTL campaigns keeping in mind media channels and retargeting objectives across verticals, such as SEM, display advertising, social media, affiliate marketing, content discovery platforms, and CRM etc.
• Mentor and guide junior creatives, designers and art directors, fostering a collaborative and inspiring work environment.
• Be a champion for digital innovation on every project you touch.
• Collaborate with copywriters, designers, and other team members to ensure cohesive and compelling visual storytelling.
• Work with other disciplines (Strategists, Developers, Media, Accounts, etc.) to ensure cohesive team integration, and alignment with broader business objectives.
• Present creative concepts and design solutions to clients, articulating the strategic thinking behind the work.
• Ensure all visual materials align with brand guidelines and project objectives.
• Stay updated on industry trends, design techniques, and emerging technologies to bring fresh perspectives to the team.
• Lead brainstorms, conceptualisation as well as the craft, art direction and design of an idea.
• Stay attuned to all aspects of South African popular culture and the platforms and media it engages with, leveraging this knowledge to use cultural insights to create relevant and impactful work.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards.
• Participate in pitches for new business opportunities, contributing innovative ideas and concepts.
• Attend client briefings and workshops.
• Oversee the creative process from concept to final execution, ensuring consistency and excellence in all deliverables.
• Source inspirational material and references to push creativity and innovation within the team.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in Graphic Design, Art Direction, Fine Arts, or a related field.
• 8 years+ of experience in an agency setting, a minimum of 2 years in a senior art direction role, preferably in an agency setting.
• Proven track record of leading successful creative projects and campaigns.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of design work and conceptual ATL and digital creative projects.
• Award shortlists and awards at local and international awards (i.e. Cannes, One Show, Loeries, Clios, Bookmarks etc.)
• A minimum of one gold award at a local or international award show.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrate exceptional strategic and highly conceptual thinking.
• Good understanding of influencer, Mobile, Podcast, out-of-home, guerrilla, activations, and direct marketing.
• An in-depth understanding of new and existing digital platforms.
• Track record of leading the conceptualisation and execution of campaigns.
• Ability to work collaboratively and take constructive feedback.
• Exceptional problem solving and leadership skills.

SOFTWARE & TOOLS

Must have a working knowledge of the following tools:

• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe InDesign
• Keynote
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Adobe After Effects (advantageous)