Art Director

Company Description

The Mill is a global creative partner for agencies, production companies and brands, working across all media channels and platforms.

We are trusted specialists in visual effects, creative technologies and content production Our projects include the creation of digital products and virtual experiences, as well as world class visual effects and video production.

We are a vibrant network of talented artists, producers, directors and creative technologists from multinational backgrounds. We nurture innovation, flexibility and diverse ideas across our studios in London, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Berlin and Bangalore. We are all united by one single ambition: To create extraordinary and memorable work that captivates and excites audiences.

We are The Mill. We create the extraordinary.

The Mill’s flagship studio, Mill London, opened its doors in 1990. Located in London’s Fitzrovia, the studio is home to over 300 creators working across Mill VFX, Mill Direction and Mill Experience projects. The Mill’s London home overlooks the iconic BT tower, and is surrounded by some of the best eateries in town. The London creative community often gathers on The Mill’s rooftop bar and terrace, which plays host to a number of industry and staff events.

Job Description

The role of Art Director (AD) at The Mill is one of creative innovation and ingenuity, leadership, and team building, responsible for working cohesively with a team of Designers, Illustrators and Animators to create the unique vision developed for our clients. A Mill AD has an extensive knowledge of the Design/VFX & commercial advertising industry and can relate it to our clients’ specific projects in the most unique artistic way.

An AD at The Mill will work closely with the CD for Design and the Design team on projects that require origination and creative development and thinking. The AD must be highly visually creative and in addition to an acute sense for visual aesthetics, have an in-depth knowledge of the technology used in aspects of Design. They will design for the projects of internal and external directors. They must also have an excellent awareness of client requirements and the ability to coordinate projects, communicate creative ideas and guide clients through a creative process.

Our AD’s must constantly research, develop and adapt new and current technology, creative ideas and techniques so that they remain at the forefront of our industry and develop a reputation for attracting and producing work that is innovative and highly original. They will be responsible for improving and refining creative output to build a culture of design around a vision set by the CD, HOD & EP. They are expected to manage projects from collaborative conceptualization through to final design and deliver the vision and creative process. A Mill AD is confident that they can join a company that is among the most award-winning in its field and have the ability to guide it to the next level.

Responsibilities

• Art Direct projects for both internal and external clients, managing each project from conceptualisation through to final product.
• Generate inspirational, conceptual and creative ideas through and within the Design team.
• Mentor a productive and award winning creative team, constantly improving and refining creative output.
• Manage creative projects including the conceptualisation and origination of design briefs and execution of the work across all disciplines.
• Ensure final creative is consistent with client strategy and brand guidelines.
• Work with creative leads and production teams to win work from prospective clients.
• Work with the HOD, CD and Design Directors to provide & develop design solutions.
• Lead the art direction of visual content for Design, 2D and 3D projects.
• Manage artists on both production and creative, ensuring highly creative output and quality control from conception through to delivery to meet creative, budget and deadline expectations.
• Advise and work with the creative teams in developing ideas, strategy and pitch collateral for all Design projects.
• Present concepts and design ideas to clients and make recommendations where appropriate.
• Attend local awards and client events to build relations and create new leads for potential projects and business.
• Work closely with CD, Design Directors and Designers to research, develop and implement new technology and creative ideas.
• Guide, teach and mentor Artists in the Design department in developing ideas further.
• Brief other members of the creative team and lead successful creative sessions for projects.
• Create, design and animate where necessary, in collaboration with others.
• Weekly meetings with CD and Producer.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of Art Direction.
• Ability to work with directors, producers and designers.
• Ability to lead projects from concept to completion.
• Clear presentations skills to inspire the creative team and to present company goals and creative vision.
• Ability to translate concepts into creative design.
• Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently internally and externally.
• In-depth knowledge of motion graphics, 2D & 3D design and experience of design tools.
• Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling projects.

Additional Information

Please review our privacy notices for job applicants.

If you require assistance applying or would like to find out more about our recruitment process, please contact [email protected] and we’ll be happy to assist.

At The Mill, we want to work with the best people and we want them to have a great career with us. We will make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process and beyond to help people shine and enable them to show us their skills and experience. We are committed to an inclusive workplace that reflects the needs of a diverse workforce. We will offer flexible working practices and make relevant workplace adjustments for employees who need them to be at their best. The Mill