Creative Director

Within the spirit of "Making People's Dreams Come True", this position is responsible for leading and supporting creative initiatives with the development and implementation of creative strategies, overall design layout and visual impact of marketing materials, products, and publications for The Villages brand. Duties include leading and coaching a creative team, meeting with stakeholders to determine visual needs. This position collaborates and coordinates with other members of the team Leadership, Account Manager(s), Other Creative Directors, Graphic Designer(s), Print Media Designer(s), Web Designer(s), Media Representative(s), Photo and Video Media Representatives, Social and Digital Team member(s) to ensure all elements of The Villages brand and marketing needs are not only met, but exceeded. This role contributes creatively to the day-to-day operations and is an integral part of the Marketing Team. These duties are accomplished while delivering Raving Fans customer service to both internal and external customers.

Full Time, On Site Position

Benefits for full-time eligible positions:
Medical (HSA/FSA), Dental, and Vision | 401K and/or ROTH | PTO & Paid Holidays | Basic Life & AD&D | The Villages Charter School eligibility | and much more!

Responsibilities:

• Create, plan, and oversee the development of the company's marketing communications and branding campaigns.
• Work closely with the marketing team to develop original concepts, strategies, and creative solutions.
• Conduct the development and design of creative materials for branding, promotional campaigns, and marketing communications - which may include new ideas.
• Ensure brand identity and message to create a cohesive experience across channels.
• Direct and participate in strategic brainstorming meetings and creative sessions.
• Oversee, lead, and mentor graphic designers; provides creative solutions and direction on projects.
• Coordinate with the Creative Team, Social Media Specialist(s), Project Managers, Event Planners, and related roles to ensure business client needs are met and exceeded.
• Collaborate with internal channel experts to implement creative projects, analyze performance and identify actions needed to successfully meet marketing objectives.
• Understand our audiences, brand promises, pillars, and programs to support the business's needs.
• Ensure campaigns meet the needs and goals of the business/pillar.
• Maintain a working knowledge of various marketing channels and tools used to create effective campaigns such as marketing research, creative, digital media, SEO, email marketing, website development, social media, and lead generation.
• Attend special meetings, educational sessions and/or assists leadership in ongoing training of team members.
• Assist the Marketing Team in its overall initiatives where applicable.
• Utilize office computer and a host of other software applications such as Microsoft Office Suite, Workfront and/or related or comparable marketing tools and office equipment (copier, fax, etc.). Creative programs include Adobe suite products, Apple motion and final cut pro, Chief Architect, Twin Motion and Evernote.
• Other duties as assigned - specific to role focus or department needs.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree (B.A.) or equivalent from four (4) year college or technical school and a minimum of ten (10) or more years related in-field experience, four (4) of which must be in marketing, graphic/creative design and/or communications. Degree in the field of marketing or related field preferred.
• This position requires a strong drive to deliver the ultimate customer marketing experience, enthusiasm for The Villages and all it has to offer, and the ability to problem solve to handle a variety of variables.
• Must exhibit well-developed interpersonal, communication and servant leadership skills. Must be able to communicate orally confidently and effectively, in writing and electronically.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.