Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director

Company: Wild Card Creative Group

Location: Culver City, CA, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Management & Leadership

Date Posted: February 28, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creative vision and execution for theatrical and streaming campaign graphics, ensuring visual consistency and technical excellence.

• Actively design and animate high-impact visual assets using industry-leading software like After Effects and Cinema 4D.

• Oversee and mentor a team of animators, providing guidance and ensuring alignment with campaign objectives and client expectations.

• Partner closely with Creative Directors, Producers, and clients to refine creative concepts and deliver polished, compelling final products.

• Drive innovation in motion design techniques and stay abreast of emerging industry trends to elevate the company's creative output.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data focuses on creative responsibilities, the "Director" title and emphasis on "leadership," "mentorship," and "oversight" strongly imply a significant operational component. This role will require managing project timelines, resource allocation within the design team, and ensuring efficient workflow from concept to delivery, aligning with typical Revenue Operations or GTM Operations principles of process efficiency and strategic execution, albeit within a creative context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and animate high-level graphical assets for theatrical and streaming trailers using After Effects and Cinema 4D, maintaining expert on-the-box execution.

• Oversee the complete lifecycle of campaign graphics, from initial concept development through final release, in close collaboration with the Creative Director and project Producers.

• Lead, mentor, and provide constructive feedback to animators, ensuring their work aligns with the overarching campaign vision and quality standards.

• Conduct thorough reviews and approvals of all graphics to guarantee visual consistency, technical proficiency, and adherence to client briefs before delivery.

• Provide hands-on design leadership across multiple simultaneous campaigns, balancing creative direction with team support.

• Actively refine and elevate design work through insightful feedback and iterative improvements, pushing creative boundaries.

• Collaborate with Producers to optimize workflows, ensuring efficient project execution and timely delivery within fast-paced trailer environments.

• Proactively identify and troubleshoot creative and technical challenges that arise during high-pressure finishing timelines.

• Contribute to accurate project scoping and scheduling by providing expert design-centric estimations and insights.

• Stay current with industry trends, competitor campaigns, and evolving motion graphics techniques to inform and inspire creative strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for strong project management and operational oversight within the creative process. This includes managing multiple simultaneous projects, ensuring efficient workflows, and contributing to scoping and scheduling, which are core functions in operational roles focused on GTM efficiency and resource management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Motion Graphics, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for a Director-level role in this industry.

Experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in motion design, with a significant and demonstrated track record in theatrical and/or streaming trailer campaigns.

Required Skills:

• 10+ years of motion design experience, with substantial theatrical and/or streaming trailer background being a mandatory requirement.

• Proven expertise in logo design specifically for theatrical and/or streaming trailer contexts.

• Exceptional design, animation, and finishing skills in Adobe After Effects and Maxon Cinema 4D.

• Strong understanding of trailer production workflows, including editorial collaboration and delivery pipelines.

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

• Collaborative leadership style characterized by strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Proven comfort and effectiveness working in fast-moving, deadline-driven production environments.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other 3D software or rendering engines.

• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.

• Experience in client-facing presentations and art direction.

• Understanding of brand strategy and its application in trailer creative.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "10+ years," "significant background," and "expert execution" highlights a senior-level role requiring deep domain expertise. The blend of technical design skills with leadership and workflow management aligns with senior operations roles that require both technical proficiency and strategic oversight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive 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 theatrical and/or streaming trailers, demonstrating creative problem-solving and impactful visual execution.

• Case studies illustrating the end-to-end design process for complex campaigns, from concept ideation to final delivery, highlighting workflow efficiency.

• Demonstrations of technical mastery in After Effects and Cinema 4D, showcasing advanced animation, compositing, and rendering techniques.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase a clear understanding of trailer workflows, including how designs are integrated into editorial pipelines and client review cycles.

• Provide examples of how you have managed and mentored design teams, detailing your approach to feedback, quality control, and team development.

• Illustrate your ability to troubleshoot creative and technical challenges, offering concise explanations of the problems and your solutions.

• Demonstrate experience in contributing to project scoping and scheduling, showing how design considerations impact timelines and resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Director-level role, the portfolio is not just about finished work but also about demonstrating process, leadership, and operational efficiency. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their strategic approach to design execution and team management, akin to how an operations professional would present process improvements and strategic initiatives.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $170,000 USD per year. This range reflects the senior-level experience, specialized skills in theatrical and streaming campaigns, and the leadership responsibilities associated with a Design Director role in the Culver City, CA market.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

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

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with potential company match.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

• Access to cutting-edge design software and hardware.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with potential for overtime during peak production periods.

• This is an on-site role requiring consistent presence in the Culver City office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided based on the input data. For benefits, standard industry offerings for full-time creative roles in the Los Angeles area are inferred. The "on-site" requirement is a critical factor influencing the work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment Marketing / Advertising / Creative Services, specifically focusing on theatrical and streaming campaign creation.

Company Size: The input data does not specify company size, but Greenhouse ATS and the nature of the role suggest a mid-sized to large creative agency or production house.

Founded: The input data does not specify the founding date.

Team Structure:

• The Design Director will report to a Creative Director or Head of Creative.

• They will lead a team of motion designers, animators, and potentially graphic artists.

• Close collaboration is expected with Editorial teams, Producers, Account Managers, and directly with clients.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-informed creative strategy, blending artistic vision with an understanding of audience engagement and market trends.

• Agile and adaptive workflows to accommodate fast-paced trailer production environments.

• Collaborative problem-solving to address creative and technical challenges efficiently.

• A commitment to continuous improvement in design craft and workflow optimization.

Company Website: wildcardcreativegroup.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the company description ("Born in Hollywood," "connect brands with global markets," "crafting high-impact experiences"), Wild Card Creative Group positions itself as a dynamic agency focused on storytelling and brand connection within the entertainment sector. The "on-the-box leadership" aspect suggests a culture that values both hands-on contribution and strategic direction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the creative operations of an entertainment marketing agency. It bridges the gap between hands-on creative execution and strategic team management, requiring a blend of artistic vision, technical expertise, and operational efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director typically reports to a Creative Director, Head of Creative, or a senior executive overseeing creative production. They, in turn, manage and mentor a team of designers and animators.

Operations Impact: The Design Director's impact is critical to the success of marketing campaigns. By ensuring visual consistency, technical excellence, and compelling creative output, they directly influence brand perception, audience engagement, and ultimately, the effectiveness of marketing efforts for theatrical releases and streaming content. Efficient workflow management by the Design Director also contributes to project profitability and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Creative Director, Executive Creative Director, or Head of Creative roles.

• Specialization in directing major franchise campaigns or developing new creative service offerings.

• Opportunities to influence agency-wide creative strategy and process improvements.

• Potential to lead larger, more complex creative teams and projects.

• Mentorship roles for emerging talent within the industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is primarily creative, the "Director" title and the need to manage workflows and teams place it within the operational framework of a creative agency. Growth opportunities would involve expanding this operational scope and strategic influence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Culver City, CA, suggesting a professional office environment typical of creative agencies in the entertainment industry. This likely includes collaborative workspaces, individual workstations, and potentially screening rooms or client meeting areas.

Office Location(s): Culver City, California. This location is a hub for the entertainment industry, offering proximity to studios and other relevant businesses.

Workspace Context:

• A dynamic and collaborative environment where creative professionals work closely together.

• Access to high-performance workstations equipped with industry-standard design and animation software (After Effects, Cinema 4D).

• Opportunities for spontaneous brainstorming sessions and cross-functional team interactions.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours, likely Monday through Friday, with an expectation of flexibility to meet project deadlines. This means occasional longer hours or weekend work during crunch times is probable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is crucial. The environment is described as "fast-paced" and "deadline-driven," which necessitates strong organizational and time-management skills, often honed in operational roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, technical skills, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Portfolio Review & Creative Discussion: A deep dive into your portfolio with the hiring manager and potentially a Creative Director. Expect to discuss your design process, decision-making, and how you approach creative challenges.

• Hands-on Challenge (Potential): You might be given a small design or animation task to assess your practical skills and problem-solving approach in real-time.

• Team & Culture Fit: Interviews with potential colleagues and other leads to evaluate collaborative style, leadership approach, and cultural alignment.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to cover strategic vision, operational management capabilities, and overall fit for the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Showcase your strongest work, particularly examples relevant to theatrical and streaming trailers, and logo design. Ensure a clear demonstration of your "on-the-box" execution skills.

• Tell Your Story: For each project, explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, the challenges faced, and the final outcome. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., how your design contributed to a campaign's success).

• Highlight Leadership: Include examples where you've led a team, mentored junior designers, or overseen a project from concept to completion.

• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your technical workflows, problem-solving techniques in After Effects and Cinema 4D, and how you ensure technical excellence.

• Operational Awareness: Briefly touch on how you managed your time, collaborated with producers, and contributed to project timelines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Key Software: Refresh your skills in After Effects and Cinema 4D, focusing on common trailer design elements and animation techniques.

• Understand Trailer Workflows: Be prepared to discuss the typical stages of trailer production and how design fits into them.

• Articulate Your Process: Be ready to explain your design methodology clearly and concisely, especially under pressure.

• Think Operationally: Consider how you would manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and communicate with stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to highlight the dual nature of the role – creative execution and operational oversight. The emphasis on portfolio content and interview preparation aims to guide candidates on demonstrating both their artistic talent and their capacity for leadership and process management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe After Effects: Essential for motion graphics, animation, compositing, and finishing. Proficiency expected at an expert level.

• Maxon Cinema 4D: Crucial for 3D modeling, animation, and rendering, often used in conjunction with After Effects for complex visual effects. Expert proficiency required.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Familiarity with other Adobe applications like Photoshop and Illustrator for asset creation and manipulation.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this creative role, but familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Jira) used for tracking creative workflows and deadlines would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on industry-standard creative software. The "operations" aspect here pertains to the efficient use and management of these tools within a project pipeline.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship: A deep commitment to high-quality design and execution, ensuring every visual element is polished and impactful.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team environment where ideas are shared freely, feedback is constructive, and collective success is paramount.

• Innovation: Encouraging the exploration of new techniques, tools, and creative approaches to stay at the forefront of entertainment marketing.

• Efficiency: Valuing streamlined workflows and effective project management to meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.

• Storytelling: A core belief that all creative work should serve the narrative and emotional impact of the brand or project.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, working hand-in-hand with Creative Directors, Producers, Editors, and clients.

• Emphasis on open communication, active listening, and a shared commitment to achieving the project's goals.

• A supportive and mentoring approach towards junior team members, empowering them to grow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's description emphasizes "stories that move audiences" and "connecting brands," indicating a culture that prioritizes creative impact and strategic brand integration. The "on-the-box" leadership implies a hands-on, collaborative culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Demands: Effectively translating client feedback and brand requirements into compelling creative solutions while maintaining artistic integrity.

• Managing Multiple High-Pressure Projects: Juggling the demands of several simultaneous campaigns, each with unique creative needs and tight deadlines.

• Technical Hurdles: Troubleshooting complex animation and rendering issues in fast-paced environments.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously adapting to the evolving landscape of visual effects, motion graphics, and entertainment marketing trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mastering New Software & Techniques: Access to training and resources to deepen expertise in After Effects, Cinema 4D, and emerging creative technologies.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone management and mentorship skills through leading design teams.

• Industry Exposure: Working on high-profile campaigns for major studios and brands provides invaluable experience and networking opportunities.

• Creative Innovation: Contributing to the development of new creative strategies and service offerings for the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for resilience, adaptability, and strong problem-solving skills, which are transferable to operational problem-solving. Growth opportunities focus on expanding creative and leadership capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a design team through a challenging trailer campaign. What was your approach to ensuring creative quality and meeting deadlines?" (Focus on leadership, process, and problem-solving).

• "How do you balance your hands-on design work with your directorial responsibilities? Provide an example." (Assess time management and delegation skills).

• "Walk me through your process for designing a key graphic element (like a title card or logo treatment) for a theatrical trailer. What factors do you consider?" (Demonstrate creative strategy and execution).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Wild Card Creative Group and our work in theatrical and streaming campaigns?" (Research the company's recent projects and client roster).

• "How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you foster a collaborative environment within a creative team?" (Align your style with the company's emphasis on collaboration and storytelling).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, starting with your most relevant and impressive theatrical/streaming trailer work.

• Narrative is Key: For each project, tell a concise story: the client brief, your creative concept, your role (especially leadership), the challenges, and the outcome.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use high-quality visuals and video clips. Be prepared to screen-share and talk through specific elements of your work.

• Quantify When Possible: If you can attribute specific successes (e.g., positive client feedback, impact on campaign reception), include it.

• Highlight Operational Aspects: Briefly touch upon workflow management, team collaboration, and how you ensured efficiency in your showcased projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: These questions are designed to probe both the candidate's creative acumen and their operational capabilities in managing projects, teams, and workflows within a demanding industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the Greenhouse job portal link.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your strongest work in theatrical and streaming trailer design and logo creation. Prepare to screen-share and walk through specific case studies that highlight your leadership and hands-on execution.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your 10+ years of motion design experience, specifically calling out your expertise in After Effects, Cinema 4D, and trailer workflows. Highlight any experience in team leadership, mentorship, or project oversight.

• Prepare for Creative & Operational Discussions: Be ready to articulate your design process, leadership philosophy, and how you manage creative workflows in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. Think about specific examples of how you've ensured both creative excellence and operational efficiency.

• Research Wild Card Creative Group: Familiarize yourself with their recent projects, client roster, and overall brand identity to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Wild Card Creative Group before making application decisions.