The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

 CREATIVE DIRECTOR    

 

POSITION OVERVIEW

 

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, seeks a full-time Creative Director. Reporting to the Vice President, Philanthropy and Engagement, the Creative Director is responsible for establishing and maintaining the brand’s visual identity and voice across a variety of internal and external mediums. This position will work cross-functionally throughout the organization and alongside the Development and Marketing and Communications teams within Philanthropy and Engagement in order to deliver on the organization’s objectives and goals. It is envisioned that this position will recruit two full time staff to support the creation of this new department—a creative copywriter and graphic designer.

                                                                       

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND

 

The mission of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is inspire people of all ages to appreciate and protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem and the global environment through living exhibits, marine science, and environmental education. For 35 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium hosts nearly 450,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to more than 7,000 animals and 310 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 50,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community.

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

 

·      Establish and protect the brand’s visual identity, voice and tone.

·      Collaborate with other departments and teams to: obtain knowledge of their business requirements, ideate and lead creative brainstorming sessions, translate ideas into creative content, revise content and presentations, approve/reject ideas, and provide constructive, forward-looking feedback to the team.

·      Provide creative concepts, design, direction, and strategy in developing multi-tiered campaigns, with projects including:

Marketing promotions across the organization’s initiatives and programs

Communications

Website content

Social media

Events

Advertising

Donor promotional material

·      Oversee and/or design materials such as emails, postcards, brochures, presentations, landing pages, etc.

·      Ensure all creative is in alignment with strategic direction, on brand and adheres to guidelines.

·      Work with external freelancers and vendors as needed.

·      Build, train, direct and motivate a passionate team of artists (graphic designers, illustrators, photographers, copywriters, editors, etc.), to help them use their talents effectively and in tandem with one another.

·      Partner closely with the Exhibits department to determine how the organization’s visual identity, voice, and tone are aligned with the in-person experiences at the Aquarium

·      Manage, schedule, and prioritize workflow for in-house and freelance graphic designers and copywriters, seeing projects through from concept development to final production.

·      Monitor results of team efforts; propose actions for improvements.

·      Work to foster ongoing, collegial relations among the Philanthropy and Engagement department and other departments within the organization. Serve as a member of the senior management team that guides strategic decision-making.

·      Team with other senior leaders to enhance the Maritime Aquarium’s public image and positioning, foster positive external relations, build long-term strategic alliances, and play an active, public role as a spokesperson and representative of the organization.

·      In conjunction with the Vice President, Philanthropy and Engagement, prepare and manage the department’s financial reports and budget; monitor the creative budget and control expenses, as well as oversee the administration of the creative team, its procedures and policies.

·      Other duties as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

 

Work Experience

 

·      At least 7-10 years of progressively responsible creative role, or similar.

·      Hands-on experience in creative process, marketing, graphic design, brand development, and brand management.

·      Excellent working knowledge of software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Canva, etc.

·      Working knowledge of digital asset management system (DAM) and/or project management tool.

·      BSc/BA in advertising, fine art, design or relevant field; MSc/MA preferred

 

Knowledge and Skills

 

·      Commitment to the Aquarium’s mission, with an appreciation for the important role that the Aquarium plays in conservation, education and the life of a vibrant community.

·      Commitment to equity and social justice, and strong alignment with our organizational values.

·      An attitude of creativity, innovation, confidence and entrepreneurship, with an ability to inspire and motivate both audiences and staff.

·      Strong leadership ability with proven management skills in leading and developing staff and working within a highly motivated team.

·      Exemplary project management skills in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.

·      Strong interpersonal skills.

·      Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

·      Continuous improvement / problem solving mindset and way of working.

·      Strong attention to detail

·      Willingness to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

·      The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity.

 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Occasionally, duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

 

TO APPLY

 

Please send a cover letter and resume to Rosemarie Lombardi at [email protected], with Creative Director in the subject line.

 

The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.

 

 

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk