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Posted: 22-Jul-26
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Internal Number: 280455
A cover letter, resume, and links to relevant video, audio, content creation, and creative editing work samples are required for consideration for this position. The materials you submit will be used to assess writing and creative skills during the initial screening process. Please submit all materials together in a single file due to system limitations.
The Office of the Vice President for Communications (OVPC) is seeking an experienced and visionary Creative Director to lead the Michigan Commons creative team in producing compelling and impactful visual content. The Creative Director for Michigan Commons will play a crucial role in shaping the university's brand identity and enhancing its reputation through strategic creative initiatives. This role requires a leader who is both a creative thinker and an effective manager, capable of directing multiple high-profile projects and inspiring a talented team of designers and multimedia specialists.
Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
- Develop and oversee the implementation of creative strategies and visual concepts that align with the University of Michigan's vision, brand, and goals.
- Lead the Michigan Commons creative team in producing innovative, high-quality content for various platforms, including digital, print, social media, video, and other emerging media.
- Evaluate and refine creative processes within the Digital Strategy team to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring timely project delivery and that all Digital Strategy creative output meets our brand standards and aligns with our mission.
- Mentor and inspire a diverse team of creative professionals, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Represent OVPC in university-wide initiatives, providing strategic input and advocating for the role of creative storytelling in achieving institutional goals.
- Provide creative direction for all photo and video engagements.
- Continue to build out design systems within the Digital Strategy team to create efficiency and consistency in work products.
- Ensure that assets are being created and captured for campus communicators that support the university's strategic university goals.
- Direct and produce videos and photo sessions for the President - eg. monthly videos and other strategic content as needed.
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies to drive innovation and keep the university's brand at the forefront of higher education communications.
- A Bachelor's degree in Design, Fine Arts, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
- Experience in a creative leadership role, preferably within higher education or a similarly complex environment.
- Proven track record of developing successful creative campaigns and projects that engage and inspire diverse audiences.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating expertise across multiple media and platforms.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Deep understanding of brand development, digital marketing, and multimedia production.
- Proficiency with creative software and tools, such as Adobe Creative Suite.
- Familiarity with UX/UI design.
This is a hybrid position, when schedule can accommodate, with onsite expectations in Ann Arbor, Michigan, 3 days per week. You will work outside of normal business hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet event requirements and deadlines.
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct these checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
