WTTW | WFMT, a leading media organization based in Chicago, IL, is currently in search of an Art Director specializing in Motion Graphics. This dynamic role involves creating and designing captivating motion graphics to support various content, marketing, and brand initiatives. The Art Director will also have the opportunity to lead and inspire a team of designers and animators, manage creative workflows, and collaborate with producers and marketing staff to bring creative concepts to life. With a focus on efficiency and attention to detail, the Art Director will play a crucial role in maintaining the graphic and brand identity of the organization. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience in motion graphics production, a strong background in typography and layout, and expertise in using Adobe Creative Suite. A Bachelor’s Degree in graphic arts or a related field is a plus. The position offers the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule, making it an exciting opportunity for individuals in the field. Interested candidates are required to submit an online portfolio showcasing their animation, motion graphics, typography, logo design, and color theory work. This role presents a unique chance to contribute to the creation of high-quality content that reflects the vibrant culture of the Chicago region.
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Key Responsibilities
Design, create, and animate inventive graphics packages and promos
The Art Director, Motion Graphics will be responsible for designing and creating engaging motion graphics packages and promos. They will use their creative skills to develop visually appealing and unique graphics that capture the attention of the audience. Through the use of animation and video, the Art Director will bring these graphics to life, enhancing the overall visual experience.
Inspire, lead, train, and provide art direction for a small team of designers/animators
In addition to their individual creative tasks, the Art Director will also have the responsibility of leading and training a team of designers and animators. They will provide art direction and guidance to ensure that all members of the team are working towards a cohesive vision. By inspiring and motivating their team, the Art Director will help to cultivate a collaborative and productive work environment.
Synthesize and assign creative requests and requirements
The Art Director will be responsible for synthesizing and assigning creative requests and requirements from various departments within the organization. They will carefully analyze these requests and determine the best approach to take in order to meet the goals and objectives. Through effective communication and collaboration, the Art Director will ensure that each project is assigned appropriately and that all creative requests are fulfilled in a timely manner.
Collaborate with producers and marketing/creative services staff
To create a cohesive and impactful visual experience, the Art Director will collaborate closely with producers and marketing/creative services staff. By working together, they will be able to develop and execute strategies that effectively communicate the desired message to the target audience. This collaboration will involve regular communication, feedback, and adjustments to ensure that all parties are aligned and working towards a common goal.
Develop, manage, streamline, and report on creative workflows and timelines
The Art Director will play a key role in the development, management, and streamlining of creative workflows and timelines. They will utilize project management software and scheduling systems to efficiently allocate resources, monitor progress, and report on project status. By effectively managing these processes, the Art Director will ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Manage creative assets library
As the Art Director, it will be their responsibility to manage the creative assets library. This involves organizing and cataloging all creative assets, ensuring that they are easily accessible to the team. They will also be responsible for maintaining the quality and integrity of these assets, as well as implementing strategies to continually update and improve the library.
Collaborate with marketing and creative services staff to create style guides
Working closely with the marketing and creative services staff, the Art Director will collaborate on the creation of style guides. These guides will help to establish consistent branding and visual identity across all platforms. By developing clear guidelines for typography, layout, color, and logo design, the Art Director will ensure a cohesive and professional visual experience.
Evaluate, interview, and hire graphic artists
The Art Director will be responsible for evaluating, interviewing, and hiring graphic artists for the team. They will review portfolios and assess the skills and experience of potential candidates to determine the best fit for the position. By carefully selecting and onboarding talented individuals, the Art Director will contribute to the growth and success of the team.
Perform other duties as assigned
In addition to the key responsibilities outlined above, the Art Director will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned. This may include collaborating on projects for sister stations or taking on additional responsibilities as needed to support the organization’s overall goals and objectives.
Skills
Verbal and written communication skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for the Art Director role. They will be required to effectively communicate their ideas and provide clear direction to their team. Additionally, they will need to collaborate with various departments and stakeholders, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Organizational skills and attention to detail
Due to the multifaceted nature of the Art Director role, strong organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial. They will be responsible for managing multiple projects and ensuring that all elements are delivered on time and to the highest standard. Attention to detail is also important when reviewing and providing feedback on creative assets.
Flexibility and adaptability under pressure
The Art Director must be able to work well under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances and tight deadlines. They should be able to manage competing priorities and remain flexible in their approach. This ability to adapt and remain calm under pressure will contribute to the success of the team and the timely delivery of projects.
Understanding of creative production planning and process
A deep understanding of creative production planning and process is necessary for the Art Director role. They should have knowledge of the various stages of production and be able to effectively estimate project scopes and timelines. This understanding will enable them to effectively manage resources and ensure the timely completion of projects.
Ability to manage creative staff
The Art Director will be responsible for managing a team of designers and animators. Therefore, they should possess strong leadership and management skills. They should be able to provide clear direction, motivate their team, and foster a collaborative and productive work environment. This ability to manage creative staff will contribute to the overall success of the team.
Willingness to work outside of traditional hours
The Art Director should be willing to work outside of traditional hours depending on the linear television schedule shifts. This flexibility is necessary to ensure that projects are completed on time and to accommodate any unforeseen changes that may arise.
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Experience
5+ years of experience as a designer overseeing motion graphics production
The Art Director should have a minimum of 5 years of experience as a designer overseeing motion graphics production. This experience will provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively lead and manage a team within a fast-paced environment.
Hands-on knowledge and background in typography, layout, color, and logo design
The Art Director should have a strong background and hands-on knowledge in typography, layout, color, and logo design. This expertise will enable them to provide guidance and direction to their team, ensuring that all creative elements are visually appealing and consistent with the brand identity.
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and project management software
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including After Effects, Element 3D, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Premiere, is essential for the Art Director role. They should also have experience and familiarity with project management software and ticketing systems to effectively manage workflows, resources, and timelines.
Experience with character generators a plus
While not required, experience with character generators, such as Chyron, Maestro, or XPression, would be beneficial. This additional skillset would enhance the Art Director’s ability to create dynamic and engaging motion graphics.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in graphic arts or related field a plus
A Bachelor’s Degree in graphic arts or a related field would be a plus for the Art Director role. While not a requirement, this level of education can provide a strong foundation in design principles and techniques.
Hybrid Work Schedule
The Art Director position offers a hybrid work schedule, providing flexibility for remote work in addition to on-site work in the Chicago office. This flexibility allows for a better work-life balance and can accommodate individual needs and preferences.
Application Details
Applicants for the Art Director, Motion Graphics position are required to submit an online portfolio that demonstrates their proficiency in animation, motion graphics, typography, logo design, and color theory. This portfolio will serve as a showcase of their skills and expertise in these areas. The portfolio should be submitted as part of the application process to be considered for the position.
Company Mission
WTTW | WFMT is committed to producing and presenting trusted, best-in-class content. With a distinct Chicago sensibility, the company aims to engage audiences through entertainment, inspiration, education, and reflection. By providing high-quality content, WTTW | WFMT seeks to connect with and enrich the lives of its viewers and listeners.
Company Purpose
The purpose of WTTW | WFMT is to enrich lives, engage communities, and inspire exploration. Through its content and programming, the company strives to make a positive impact on individuals and communities by fostering curiosity, encouraging learning, and promoting cultural exploration.
Company Values
WTTW | WFMT upholds a set of core values that guide its actions and decisions:
Curiosity
The company values curiosity and encourages a thirst for knowledge and understanding. By embracing curiosity, WTTW | WFMT aims to inspire lifelong learning and exploration.
Commitment
WTTW | WFMT is committed to building an innovative, creative, and collaborative culture. The company is dedicated to producing high-quality content and providing exceptional experiences for its audience.
Trust
Operating with integrity and transparency, WTTW | WFMT prioritizes trust in its interactions with employees, partners, and the community. The company strives to maintain trust through ethical practices and open communication.
Respect
Respect is a fundamental value at WTTW | WFMT. The company believes in treating individuals fairly, valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering an inclusive environment that promotes collaboration and understanding.
Excellence
WTTW | WFMT strives for excellence in all its endeavors. The company sets high standards for quality and seeks to deliver exceptional content and experiences to its audience.
Diversity & Equity
WTTW | WFMT celebrates diversity and strives for equity. The company recognizes the importance of reflecting the diverse faces and voices of its region in the stories it tells, as well as in its workforce and leadership.
Fun
While committed to hard work and producing great content, WTTW | WFMT also believes in fostering a positive and enjoyable work environment. The company values team-oriented collaboration and promotes a sense of fun and camaraderie among its employees.
In conclusion, the role of Art Director, Motion Graphics at WTTW | WFMT is a multifaceted position that requires a combination of creative expertise, leadership skills, and effective communication. The Art Director will be responsible for designing and animating inventive graphics, providing art direction to a team, managing creative workflows, and collaborating with various departments. Their skills in verbal and written communication, organization, and attention to detail will contribute to their success in this role. The Art Director should have extensive experience in motion graphics production and a solid background in typography, layout, color, and logo design. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and project management software is necessary, and experience with character generators is a plus. While a Bachelor’s Degree in graphic arts or a related field is not required, it is advantageous. The Art Director position offers a hybrid work schedule, providing flexibility for remote work. Applicants should submit an online portfolio showcasing their animation, motion graphics, typography, logo design, and color theory work. WTTW | WFMT is committed to producing and presenting trusted, best-in-class content that engages audiences and enriches lives. The company values curiosity, commitment, trust, respect, excellence, diversity & equity, and fun.
