GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR – ART & DESIGN (Ad Agency)
WE WANT YOU … TO WANT US
This is no Cheap Trick: Plan B is on the hunt for a dynamic, rockstar creative leader with serious art, design, and conceptual chops to help our inclusive, equitable, and sustainability-minded agency soar to even greater heights — and our talented band of creatives wants you … to want us.
See:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj9dDSE3ceQ
WE WANT YOUR LEADERSHIP. The Group Creative Director (Art & Design) is responsible for the overall supervision of the agency’s creative department and product – both design and copy, but with an emphasis on the quality of the design.
WE WANT YOUR STRATEGIC & CREATIVE VISION. The Group Creative Director (Art & Design) interfaces with the client, account teams, creative department, production department, and management team, and is responsible for taking strategic marketing plans and interpreting them into “big ideas” with a unique point of view.
WE WANT YOUR SAVVY MANAGEMENT SKILLS. The Group Creative Director (Art & Design) advises the Creative Directors regarding which creative team members to assign to which creative assignments. He/she works closely with creative staff to ensure quality results, fostering professional growth while working to bring everyone’s work to the highest standard possible.
WE WANT YOUR EYE FOR DETAIL. The Group Creative Director (Art & Design) ultimately approves all work before presentation to the client, reviewing it with account leaders and taking their requests into consideration. Most of all, the Group Creative Director (Art & Design) recognizes the importance of the creative product with regard to the future success of the agency and is a steward of excellence behind all work the agency produces.
This Group Creative Director (Art & Design) role is primarily an on-site position at our Chicago River North location. Regularly attending work in-person (5 days a week, M-F) is essential for the success of the company, our clients, and the entire Plan B team.
WE WANT YOU … TO APPLY NOW!
CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Directs the creative product, striving for excellence from concept to completion of every project.
- Provides insightful, groundbreaking, and/or original creative concepts as required for specific assignments.
- Produces director-level art direction and design for mobile-first digital experiences, including websites, landing pages, emails, e-newsletters, microsites, and digital display ads across client accounts as needed.
- Collaborates with account group to joint estimate projects, assign resources, and define scope/schedule.
- Works closely with account teams to solve marketing problems through smart advertising and best practices.
- Manages Creative department, Creative Directors, Creative Production Services, and Freelance resources.
- Confirms delivery schedules with account teams and oversees assignment of jobs to creative team members.
- Oversees creative solutions produced by team and offers valuable input to elevate quality of creative product.
- Serves as client-facing representative of the agency and effectively “sells” creative at client presentations.
- Responsible for the selection and management of freelance services.
- Assists in screening and interviewing applicants for creative positions, hiring and terminating to ensure creative department is appropriately staffed.
- Actively promotes the agency’s growth and exposure via new business pitches, self-promotional efforts, and RFP response/proposal development.
- Maintains current working knowledge of computer-related skills, software, and programs to ensure entire creative department and staff remain on the leading edge of essential technology and skills.
- Makes recommendations to ensure profitability for the agency.
- Recommends hardware and software purchases to keep department current and efficient.
- Supports agency operations as a senior member of the agency’s management team.
WHY PLAN B?
Plan B is never boring. We’ve managed to maintain a flat organizational structure, an agile development style and the entrepreneurial spirit of a start-up, even after 20 years in business. We work with both Fortune 500 companies and the innovative startups who move culture forward – so the work is rewarding, relevant and dialed into the exciting ambience of our connected world.
As a highly strategic creative boutique, we understand how game-changing, category-killing creative work emerges from powerful insights that are properly driven through complex multi-channel executions.
- Highly-Competitive Salary
- Equity/Profit-Sharing Program
- 401K
- Liberal PTO Program (including summer hours)
- Continuing Education Support Opportunities
- Full Health Benefits
- Limited Matching Contributions to Any Non-profit of Your Choice
- Decent coffee
- Smart, fun, passionate, ass-busting colleagues
- We don’t do weekends (or many late nights)
We also recognize the critical difference today’s companies can (and must) make with regard to corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability. The values of conservation and efficiency have long been core to Plan B’s cultural and operational foundation, and are even more of a priority today in light of how much our world is changing. In partnership, we work best with clients and vendors who share our passion for protecting the planet – companies whose operational and cultural priorities have shifted toward placing less value on GDP, and more value on GDH.
In practice, we are habitually seeking ways to do more with less, to reduce unnecessary waste and emissions, and to eagerly assist clients looking to promote their efforts to be responsible global citizens.
Plan B doesn’t discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
DESIRED REQUIREMENTS:
- 10+ years of experience, including 3+ years of creative leadership and team management.
- Expertise with both traditional and digital tactic development and execution.
- Enough “scrappy” experience to never become paralyzed by time or budget realities that might restrict creative process.
- A generous, collaborative spirit and a seeker of mentoring opportunities.
- A desire to innovate and help the creative team learn and grow on a professional level.
- Comfortable managing a multitude of projects simultaneously.
- A thinker, a day-dreamer, a non-traditional outlier who wants to believe in what they’re doing, who they’re doing it with, and who they’re doing it for.
- A stellar portfolio of cross-channel creative work.
- Expert working knowledge of current design tools, including Adobe Creative Suite, Premiere Pro, After Effects and WordPress.
- A desire to work onsite at our River North office.
APPLY TODAY
Please send a short cover letter, link to your portfolio and attached resume to [email protected].
Local Chicago candidates only.
IF YOU ROCK, HERE’S HOW WE’LL ROLL …
You made the first cut! Now what?*
1. First, we’ll email you a few additional qualifying questions (there are no wrong/right answers)
2. Next, we’ll schedule you for a 30-minute Google Meet video call with some of our team
3. If we think you’re the jam, we’ll have you take an online personality test (just to make sure you’re weird enough)
4. And finally, an in-person interview with the Creative Team at the Plan B HQ, 116 W. Illinois St. #3W, Chicago (please be prepared to present a work case study)
(*We’re not looking to drag the process out! Our aim is to complete these steps within 10 working days.)
Plan B®
Related jobs:
Casting Call: Speaker for Hair Brand Commercial in Los Angeles
Job Description:
UCA is casting a Speaker for an upcoming hair brand commercial filming in Los Angeles. We are seeking a charismatic and confident individual who can deliver lines with clarity and professionalism. This role is ideal for someone who can represent the brand effectively on camera, combining communication skills with a dynamic presence.
Job Responsibilities:
- Deliver scripted lines clearly and confidently in front of the camera.
- Represent the brand by speaking directly to the audience, conveying the message in a professional and engaging manner.
- Follow the direction of the production team to ensure the tone and style align with the brand’s identity.
- Participate in multiple takes and collaborate with other actors and crew members to ensure a successful production.
Requirements:
- Open to men and women of all ethnicities.
- Aged 20-35.
- Comfortable speaking on camera and delivering lines.
- Must be available for filming on Day 1.
- Local hire preferred, as no travel or lodging is provided.
Compensation:
- Rate: $600 for up to 6 hours of work.
- Payment will be provided after filming.
Casting Call: Lead Man and Lead Woman for Hair Brand Commercial in Los Angeles
Job Description:
UCA is casting for Lead Man and Lead Woman roles in an upcoming hair brand commercial filming in Los Angeles. We are seeking actors who can confidently take on lead roles, deliver compelling performances, and work in a dynamic commercial setting. This is a paid opportunity to be featured prominently in a commercial for a well-known brand.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray the lead character in various scenes that showcase the brand’s hair products.
- Follow the direction of the production team to bring energy and authenticity to your performance.
- Participate in multiple takes and ensure continuity in your portrayal throughout the day.
- Collaborate with other actors, models, and the crew to ensure the success of the production.
Requirements:
- Lead Man:
- White, aged 20-35.
- Must be available for filming on Day 2.
- Lead Woman:
- White, aged 20-35.
- Must be available for filming on Day 2.
- Must be comfortable in front of the camera and capable of delivering a polished performance.
- Previous acting experience is preferred but not required.
- Local hire preferred, as no travel or lodging is provided.
Compensation:
- Rate: $400 for up to 8 hours of work.
- Payment will be provided after filming.
Casting Call: Product Models for Hair Brand Commercial in Los Angeles
Job Description:
UCA is casting male and female Product Models for an upcoming hair brand commercial filming in Los Angeles. We are seeking individuals who are comfortable being on camera and can model hair care products in a professional, high-quality setting. This is a paid opportunity to showcase your modeling talents in a commercial for a well-known brand.
Job Responsibilities:
- Model hair care products on camera, posing as directed by the production team.
- Participate in various scenes showcasing the brand’s products in a professional manner.
- Follow all instructions from the production team to ensure smooth filming.
- Maintain professionalism and adaptability throughout the shoot.
Requirements:
- Male and female models, all ethnicities.
- Ages 20-35.
- Must be comfortable working in a commercial setting and following the direction of the production team.
- Must be available for filming on Day 1.
- Local hire preferred, as no travel or lodging is provided.
Compensation:
- Rate: $250 for 6 hours of work.
- Payment will be provided after filming.
Casting Call: French Bulldogs for Hair Brand Commercial in Los Angeles
Job Description:
UCA is seeking well-behaved French Bulldogs to feature in an upcoming hair brand commercial filming in Los Angeles. This is a paid opportunity for your dog to shine on-screen in a professional production setting, working alongside actors in fun and creative scenes.
Job Responsibilities:
- French Bulldogs will appear in commercial scenes, interacting with actors or being part of the overall environment.
- Must follow direction from the handler and production team for required actions.
- Be comfortable around lights, cameras, and people on set.
Requirements:
- Must be a well-behaved French Bulldog.
- Comfortable on a professional set with people and other animals.
- Able to follow directions from the handler.
- Must be available for one day of filming.
Compensation:
- Rate: $250 for 2 hours of work.
- Payment will be provided after filming.
Casting Call: Ceremony Guests for Streaming Platform Project in Atlanta
Job Description:
We are casting male and female extras to portray Ceremony Guests for a new streaming platform project filming in Duluth, GA (near Sugarloaf Pkwy). This role requires individuals who can represent formal guests at a ceremony. Men must provide and wear navy, beige, or light grey suits. This is a great opportunity for those interested in a professional film setting.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a guest attending a formal ceremony in various scenes.
- Follow direction from the production team to ensure an appropriate demeanor for a formal event.
- Be prepared for multiple takes and adjustments to scenes as needed.
- Maintain professionalism and punctuality throughout the day.
Requirements:
- 4 men and women, ages 25+.
- Men must own and bring a navy, beige, or light grey suit to wear during filming.
- Must be comfortable working in a formal setting.
- Local hire only (Duluth, GA near Sugarloaf Pkwy), as no travel or lodging is provided.
- Must be available for the entire day of filming.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 10 hours of work.
- Payment will be made via direct deposit only (no exceptions).
Casting Call: Security Guards for Streaming Platform Project in Atlanta
Job Description:
We are seeking male extras to portray Security Guards for a new project filming in Duluth, GA (near Sugarloaf Pkwy). This role involves working as a security guard at a formal ceremony, requiring a professional appearance and demeanor. This is a great opportunity for those interested in being part of an exciting production for a major streaming platform.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a security guard at a formal ceremony, ensuring a serious and professional appearance.
- Follow the direction of the production team and perform various tasks that align with the role of security personnel.
- Be prepared for multiple takes and scene adjustments.
- Maintain professionalism and punctuality throughout the day.
Requirements:
- 2 male extras, ages 20-50.
- Must be comfortable portraying a security guard in a formal setting.
- Local hire only (Duluth, GA near Sugarloaf Pkwy), as no travel or lodging is provided.
- Must be available for the entire day of filming.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 10 hours of work.
- Payment will be made via direct deposit only (no exceptions).
Casting Call: Auction Buyers for Streaming Platform Project in Atlanta
Job Description:
We are casting male and female extras to portray Auction Buyers for a new streaming platform project filming in Duluth, GA (near Sugarloaf Pkwy). This is an exclusive small scene where you will be part of an elegant auction setting. Men must have appropriate attire (navy, beige, or light grey suits). This is a great opportunity for those looking to be part of a professional production.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray an auction buyer or party guest in a formal, upscale auction scene.
- Follow the direction of the production team to perform specific actions and movements as required for the scene.
- Be prepared for multiple takes and scene adjustments.
- Maintain professionalism and punctuality throughout the day.
Requirements:
- 3 men and women, ages 30+.
- Men must own and bring a navy, beige, or light grey suit to wear during filming.
- Must be comfortable working in a professional environment and taking direction.
- Local hire only (Duluth, GA near Sugarloaf Pkwy), as no travel or lodging is provided.
- Must be available for the entire day of filming.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 10 hours of work.
- Payment will be made via direct deposit only (no exceptions).
Casting Call: Male and Female Extras (Ages 18-65) for TPS Production Services Movie – Funeral Attendees
Job Description:
TPS Production Services is seeking male and female extras to portray Funeral Attendees for an upcoming movie filming in Atlanta, GA. We are looking for African-American individuals to participate in scenes that will depict a formal funeral setting. This is a paid opportunity for those looking to gain experience on a professional movie set.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a funeral attendee, dressed appropriately for a formal funeral scene.
- Follow directions from the production team and maintain the required demeanor throughout the scene.
- Participate in multiple takes and scene adjustments as needed.
- Work professionally and collaboratively with the cast and crew to achieve the desired look and feel for the scene.
Requirements:
- Male and female extras, ages 18-65.
- African-American only.
- Must be comfortable portraying a somber, respectful attendee at a formal funeral.
- Must be local to Atlanta, GA, or able to provide own transportation, as no travel or lodging is provided.
- Available for up to 8 hours on the day of filming.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 8 hours of work.
- Payment will be mailed via check within 2 to 3 weeks after filming.
Casting Call: Body Doubles for Upcoming Production in Atlanta
Job Description:
We are seeking two body doubles for an upcoming production filming in Atlanta, GA. The production is looking for a specific match in physical appearance, so applicants must meet the required body types and characteristics. This is a great opportunity for those who fit the description to work closely with the production team in a professional environment.
Role 1:
- African American Female Double
- Size: 2
- Height: 5’6″
- Age Range: 20s to 30s
- Hair: Shoulder-length or similar
Role 2:
- Caucasian Male Double
- Height: 6’2″
- Shirt Size: Large
- Waist: 34
- Hair: Short brown
- Build: Athletic, in good shape
Job Responsibilities:
- Stand in for the main actors in scenes requiring a body double.
- Accurately match the appearance and movements of the lead actor during filming.
- Work closely with the production team to ensure seamless continuity.
- Be prepared for extended periods on set, following all directions given by the crew.
Requirements:
- Must match the physical specifications provided for either role.
- Comfortable working as a body double, maintaining professionalism on set.
- Available for the entire day of filming.
- Must provide a recent photo of yourself with your current hair length, along with your height, clothing sizes, and contact information.
Compensation:
- Compensation details will be provided upon inquiry or during the application process.
Casting Call: Male and Female Extras (Ages 18-65) for TPS Production Services Movie – Tourists
Job Description:
TPS Production Services is casting male and female extras to portray Tourists for an upcoming movie filming in Atlanta, GA. We are seeking individuals who can convincingly look like they are visiting Italy, capturing the essence of travelers in a bustling, picturesque location. This is a 3-day booking, and all ethnicities are encouraged to apply.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a tourist visiting Italy in scenes such as public squares, cafes, or sightseeing locations.
- Follow direction from the production team to ensure your appearance and behavior match that of a typical visitor.
- Be prepared to participate in multiple takes and scene adjustments.
- Collaborate with the production team and maintain professionalism throughout the 3-day shoot.
Requirements:
- Male and female extras, ages 18-65.
- Must be able to convincingly portray a tourist visiting Italy (appearance and demeanor).
- All ethnicities are welcome to apply.
- Comfortable working in a busy production environment and taking direction.
- Must be available for the entire 3-day booking.
- Local hire only (Atlanta, GA), as no travel or lodging is provided.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 8 hours of work per day.
- Payment will be mailed via check within 2 to 3 weeks after filming.
Casting Call: Male and Female Extras (Ages 18-65) for TPS Production Services Movie – Tourists
Job Description:
TPS Production Services is casting male and female extras to portray Tourists for an upcoming movie filming in Atlanta, GA. We are seeking individuals who can convincingly look like they are visiting Italy, capturing the essence of travelers in a bustling, picturesque location. This is a 3-day booking, and all ethnicities are encouraged to apply.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a tourist visiting Italy in scenes such as public squares, cafes, or sightseeing locations.
- Follow direction from the production team to ensure your appearance and behavior match that of a typical visitor.
- Be prepared to participate in multiple takes and scene adjustments.
- Collaborate with the production team and maintain professionalism throughout the 3-day shoot.
Requirements:
- Male and female extras, ages 18-65.
- Must be able to convincingly portray a tourist visiting Italy (appearance and demeanor).
- All ethnicities are welcome to apply.
- Comfortable working in a busy production environment and taking direction.
- Must be available for the entire 3-day booking.
- Local hire only (Atlanta, GA), as no travel or lodging is provided.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 8 hours of work per day.
- Payment will be mailed via check within 2 to 3 weeks after filming.
Casting Call: Male and Female Extras (Ages 18-65) for TPS Production Services Movie – Local Italy Residents
Job Description:
TPS Production Services is casting male and female extras to portray Local Italy Residents for an upcoming movie filming in Atlanta, GA. We are looking for individuals who can authentically portray residents of Italy in various scenes. This is a 3-day booking, and we encourage people of all ethnicities who can convincingly look like they live in Italy to apply.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a local Italian resident in different settings such as streets, cafes, or homes.
- Follow directions from the production team to ensure your appearance and actions reflect the culture and vibe of Italy.
- Work professionally on set, being prepared for multiple takes and scene adjustments.
- Be available for all three days of filming.
Requirements:
- Male and female extras, ages 18-65.
- Must be able to convincingly portray an Italian local (appearance and demeanor).
- All ethnicities are welcome to apply.
- Comfortable working in a busy production environment and taking direction.
- Must be available for the entire 3-day booking.
- Local hire only (Atlanta, GA), as no travel or lodging is provided.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for up to 8 hours of work per day.
- Payment will be mailed via check within 2 to 3 weeks after filming.