In all advertising agencies, the link between the creative team and the account executives is the guy at the top, the creative director, responsible for overseeing designers and copywriters as well as developing all aspects of the campaign according to the wishes of the client company. Conceptualising the client’s vision for the service or product as well as assigning projects to the teams and ensuring deadlines are met is all part of this crucial position. The CD gets the praise when the campaign is successful and the blame when it’s not!
Administrative and leadership qualities along with superb communications skills are essential, as is a strong background in design and/or copywriting. Extensive web and software experience is now requested by employers, and the position involves long hours, travel and a high stress level. Strong organizational skills are mandatory in order to ensure each section of the campaign is completed on time by the various departments involved.
The majority of CD jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of five year’s experience in the field, with seven and ten years requested in major advertising agencies. Salaries are commensurate with responsibilities, the size of the agency and its accounts, but range from C
$50,000 plus to the heights of around C
$200,000 for top people in the field.