Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director

Company: Wild Card Creative Group

Location: Culver City, CA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: March 31, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a hands-on leadership role within a creative agency specializing in entertainment marketing, focusing on theatrical and streaming campaigns.

• The Design Director is expected to actively contribute to design and animation while providing visual oversight and ensuring the highest quality execution.

• This position requires a deep understanding of trailer workflows, creative problem-solving, and the ability to mentor and lead a team of designers and animators.

• The role demands a strong blend of technical proficiency in industry-standard software and creative vision to elevate brand storytelling for major entertainment properties.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Director," the description emphasizes an "on-the-box" leadership style, meaning the candidate will be expected to actively design and animate, not solely manage. This is crucial for candidates to understand, as it implies a significant hands-on component to the role. The focus on "theatrical and streaming campaigns" and "trailer workflows" indicates a specialized niche within the broader creative industry.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute high-level design and animation work using After Effects and Cinema 4D for theatrical and streaming trailers, demonstrating expert on-the-box capabilities.

• Lead the visual execution of campaign graphics from initial concept through final release, ensuring creative consistency and technical excellence in collaboration with Creative Directors and Producers.

• Provide mentorship, guidance, and work reviews for animators and designers, ensuring alignment with the overarching campaign vision and creative direction.

• Approve all graphic assets, maintaining rigorous standards for visual quality, technical precision, and brand/project alignment before client or editorial delivery.

• Offer direct, hands-on design leadership across multiple concurrent campaigns, managing priorities and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality creative assets.

• Actively refine and elevate creative work through constructive feedback and iterative design processes.

• Collaborate closely with Producers to optimize workflows, manage timelines efficiently, and ensure project deadlines are met.

• Proactively identify and troubleshoot creative and technical challenges that arise during high-pressure finishing stages of trailer production.

• Contribute expert design perspective to scoping and scheduling discussions, providing accurate estimates for design tasks and resource allocation.

• Maintain a keen awareness of current industry trends, competitor campaigns, and emerging motion graphics techniques to inform creative strategies and execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility to "Contribute to accurate scoping and scheduling conversations from a design perspective" highlights the strategic operational aspect of this role. It implies the need for not just creative talent but also an understanding of project management, resource allocation, and the financial implications of design choices within a production pipeline.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong portfolio demonstrating equivalent practical experience and mastery of relevant software is implicitly required.

Experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in motion design, with a mandatory and significant focus on theatrical and/or streaming trailer campaigns.

Required Skills:

• Over 10 years of dedicated motion design experience, with a substantial background in theatrical and/or streaming trailer production.

• Demonstrated expertise in logo design specifically for theatrical and/or streaming trailers.

• Exceptional proficiencies in After Effects and Cinema 4D for design, animation, and final finishing.

• Expert-level 3D design skills in Cinema 4D, including advanced command of lighting, materials, and rendering (specifically with Redshift), alongside superior animation capabilities.

• In-depth understanding of trailer production workflows, the nuances of editorial collaboration, and standard delivery pipelines.

• Proven ability to effectively balance hands-on creative execution with team oversight and leadership responsibilities.

• Possession of a collaborative leadership style, complemented by strong and articulate communication skills.

• Comfort and proven success working within fast-paced, deadline-driven creative environments.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with additional 3D rendering engines or compositing software.

• Experience with project management tools relevant to creative production.

• Knowledge of graphic design principles beyond motion graphics.

• Ability to provide creative direction in client-facing meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for "Logo design for theatrical and/or streaming trailers is a must" is a highly specific qualification that candidates must address. Additionally, the emphasis on "expert 3D designer with strong command of lighting, materials, in C4D with Redshift" points towards a need for advanced technical skills in 3D rendering, which is critical for high-end trailer graphics.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 10 years of motion design work, with a strong emphasis on theatrical and streaming trailer campaigns.

• Specific examples of logo design for film and television campaigns, demonstrating creative problem-solving and visual impact.

• Demonstrations of advanced 3D design work in Cinema 4D, highlighting expertise in lighting, materials (Redshift), and complex animation.

• Case studies that illustrate the entire design process, from concept ideation and storyboarding to final execution and delivery, within trailer production workflows.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of workflow management within trailer production, detailing how design elements are integrated with editorial and other post-production stages.

• Provide evidence of process optimization, such as how design pipelines were streamlined or how technical challenges were overcome efficiently.

• Illustrate the application of feedback loops and iterative refinement in the design process, demonstrating responsiveness to directorial and client input.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an "on-the-box" role means the portfolio should not just present final work but also include elements that demonstrate the process of design and animation. This could include breakdowns of complex animations, wireframes for 3D scenes, or explanations of design decisions made under pressure.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $170,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan options, such as a 401(k), potentially with company match.

• Opportunities for professional development and ongoing training in design software and industry trends.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit-sharing, depending on company performance and individual contribution.

Working Hours: The role is on-site, implying standard office hours, but the fast-paced, deadline-driven nature of trailer production may require flexibility and occasional extended hours or weekend work during peak periods. An estimated 40-hour work week is typical, with potential for overtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Culver City, CA location, which is a competitive market for creative professionals in the entertainment industry. This range is competitive for a Design Director role with significant hands-on responsibilities and over 10 years of specialized experience. The benefits are standard for full-time roles in the US creative agency sector but may not be exhaustive.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising & Marketing / Entertainment Marketing / Creative Services. Wild Card Creative Group operates at the intersection of entertainment and marketing, leveraging storytelling expertise to connect brands with global audiences across various media.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the Greenhouse job board source and the mention of multiple simultaneous campaigns suggest a medium-sized agency, likely with 50-200 employees. This offers a balance of structured processes and a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Founded: Born in Hollywood, suggesting a company with deep roots and established experience in the entertainment industry, likely founded several years ago to build this expertise.

Team Structure:

• The operations team likely includes Creative Directors, Producers, Editors, Motion Designers, Animators, and potentially specialists in VFX and sound design.

• The Design Director will report to a Creative Director and work closely with Project Producers, forming a core project leadership unit.

Methodology:

• Wild Card emphasizes a blend of creativity and data to craft high-impact experiences, suggesting a data-informed approach to creative strategy and execution.

• The company values building genuine connections, implying a focus on audience engagement and storytelling that resonates emotionally.

• Workflow optimization and efficiency are critical, especially given the fast-paced nature of trailer production.

Company Website: wildcardcreativegroup.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's "Born in Hollywood" origin story and focus on "stories that move audiences" and "connecting brands with global markets" clearly position them as specialists in entertainment marketing, particularly for film and television. This context is vital for understanding the specific demands and creative standards of the Design Director role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position, a Design Director, requiring significant technical mastery and leadership experience. It sits above individual contributor designers and junior leads, serving as a key creative and technical authority.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director will likely report to a Creative Director, overseeing a team of motion designers and animators. They will work in close partnership with Producers to manage project execution.

Operations Impact: The Design Director's impact is directly tied to the visual quality and effectiveness of marketing campaigns. Their work influences audience perception, engagement, and ultimately, the success of theatrical releases and streaming content. They are instrumental in translating creative concepts into compelling visual narratives that drive viewership and brand recognition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential advancement to Creative Director or Executive Creative Director roles within the agency, leading larger teams and broader creative strategies.

• Opportunities to specialize further in specific areas of entertainment marketing or to take on more strategic client-facing responsibilities.

• Continuous development in cutting-edge design and animation techniques, staying at the forefront of industry trends through training and project experience.

• Potential to influence the agency's creative direction and methodology, contributing to its reputation and growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-the-box" leadership aspect suggests that career progression might also involve developing training programs or becoming a subject matter expert within the company, in addition to traditional leadership track opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Culver City, CA, suggesting a professional creative agency office environment conducive to collaboration and client meetings.

Office Location(s): Culver City, California, a hub for the entertainment industry, offering proximity to studios and post-production facilities.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is likely dynamic and collaborative, with open studio spaces designed to foster teamwork and creative exchange among designers, editors, and producers.

• Access to industry-standard hardware and software, including high-performance workstations, rendering farms, and the latest versions of After Effects, Cinema 4D, and Redshift.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with creative leadership, project teams, and potentially clients, encouraging a culture of shared creativity and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is expected, the demands of trailer production, especially nearing release dates, can necessitate flexible scheduling, including extended hours or weekend work. This requires adaptability and commitment to meeting project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Being on-site in Culver City places the Design Director in a prime location within the entertainment ecosystem, facilitating networking and collaboration with industry peers and clients.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess experience, technical skills, and alignment with the role's specific requirements (theatrical/streaming trailers, logo design, C4D/Redshift expertise).

• Creative Assessment: A hands-on design challenge or a detailed review of portfolio case studies, focusing on problem-solving, creative process, technical execution, and storytelling ability. This may involve presenting work and discussing design decisions.

• Team/Leadership Interview: Meeting with Creative Directors and potentially Producers to evaluate leadership style, collaborative approach, communication skills, and ability to mentor a team.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential within the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Clearly categorize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Theatrical Trailers, Streaming Campaigns, Logo Design).

• For trailer-specific work, provide context: What was the brief? What was the target audience? What were the key creative challenges?

• Highlight your C4D/Redshift work with detail on lighting, texturing, and render settings. Break down complex animations to show your process.

• Include at least one strong example of logo design for film/TV, explaining your design rationale and execution.

• Be prepared to discuss your on-the-box contributions, demonstrating your hands-on design and animation skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a practical design exercise that tests your speed and skill in After Effects and Cinema 4D under a time constraint.

• Practice articulating your design process and decision-making clearly and concisely.

• Prepare to discuss industry trends and how you stay current, particularly regarding trailer design and motion graphics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-the-box" nature of the role means interviewers will likely probe deeply into the candidate's personal contributions to projects. Candidates should meticulously prepare to discuss their specific role, techniques, and problem-solving approaches for each piece of work presented in their portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe After Effects: Essential for motion graphics, animation, compositing, and finalization.

• Maxon Cinema 4D: Core 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software.

• Redshift: GPU-accelerated renderer for Cinema 4D, crucial for high-quality 3D visuals.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Including Photoshop and Illustrator for asset creation and manipulation.

Analytics & Reporting: While not directly a "design" tool, understanding how design impacts campaign performance (e.g., click-through rates on digital assets, audience engagement metrics) is beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Less relevant for this specific role, as it's focused on creative execution rather than sales or marketing automation. However, understanding how creative assets are deployed through marketing platforms could be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Redshift indicates a need for advanced 3D rendering skills, not just basic modeling and animation. Proficiency with this specific renderer is a key technical requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Storytelling: A core value, emphasizing the creation of narratives that connect with audiences and drive emotional engagement.

• Craftsmanship: A dedication to high-quality execution, technical excellence, and meticulous attention to detail in all visual output.

• Collaboration: A team-oriented approach, valuing open communication, shared feedback, and collective problem-solving.

• Innovation: A commitment to staying current with industry trends and pushing creative boundaries through new techniques and technologies.

• Efficiency: Recognizing the fast-paced nature of entertainment marketing, valuing timely delivery and optimized workflows.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional integration with editorial, producers, and client services is paramount.

• A culture of constructive critique and feedback is fostered to elevate the work.

• Emphasis on clear communication to ensure alignment on creative vision and project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's slogan, "Born in Hollywood," and their focus on "stories that move audiences" suggest a culture that deeply values creativity, artistic expression, and a passion for the entertainment industry itself.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple High-Pressure Campaigns: Juggling concurrent projects with tight deadlines and demanding creative requirements.

• Maintaining Creative Consistency: Ensuring a unified visual style across a campaign, especially when working with multiple designers and animators.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing complex creative or technical issues that arise during the animation and finishing process, often under tight time constraints.

• Balancing Hands-On Work with Leadership: Effectively transitioning between detailed creative execution and guiding/mentoring a team.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to a wide range of high-profile entertainment marketing projects, offering diverse creative challenges.

• Opportunities to master new design and animation techniques through practical application and potential training.

• Mentorship from experienced Creative Directors and industry professionals.

• Development of leadership and project management skills within a creative agency setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-the-box" nature of the role presents a unique challenge: the need to perform at a senior individual contributor level while simultaneously fulfilling leadership duties. This requires exceptional time management and the ability to maintain high output in both capacities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design a logo for a major theatrical release under extreme time pressure. What was your process, and what was the final outcome?" (Tests logo design, pressure handling, process).

• "Walk us through a complex 3D animation you created for a trailer. What were the technical challenges related to lighting and materials, and how did you overcome them using C4D and Redshift?" (Tests technical depth, C4D/Redshift, problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Wild Card Creative Group's work in theatrical and streaming campaigns?" (Tests research, cultural alignment).

• "How do you approach collaborating with editors and producers in a fast-paced trailer environment?" (Tests collaboration, understanding of workflow).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically, starting with your strongest theatrical/streaming trailer work and logo designs.

• For each project, clearly articulate your role, the creative brief, your design process, and the key challenges you addressed.

• Be prepared to demonstrate your hands-on skills. Have examples ready that show your direct contributions to animation and design.

• For 3D work, be ready to discuss technical details like lighting setups, material properties, and rendering optimizations.

• Showcase your leadership by including examples of how you’ve guided junior team members or managed feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "on-the-box" requirement, candidates should prepare to not only present their portfolio but also potentially demonstrate their skills live or discuss specific technical workflows in detail. Be ready to discuss the "why" behind design choices, not just the "what."

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link, ensuring your resume and portfolio are uploaded.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant work, specifically highlighting theatrical/streaming trailer campaigns and logo design examples. Include detailed case studies that showcase your hands-on design process, 3D expertise (C4D/Redshift), and leadership contributions.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly states your 10+ years of motion design experience, emphasizing your background in entertainment marketing and trailer production. Use keywords like "Motion Design," "After Effects," "Cinema 4D," "Redshift," "Theatrical Campaigns," "Streaming Campaigns," and "Logo Design."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design philosophy, workflow processes, and leadership approach. Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail, focusing on your individual contributions and problem-solving strategies. Rehearse your responses to potential interview questions covering technical skills, creative direction, and team collaboration.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Wild Card Creative Group's recent work, client roster, and company culture. Understand their approach to storytelling and brand connection within the entertainment industry.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.