3D / 2D Art Director

Job Description

The Mill is a global creative partner for agencies, production companies and brands, working across all media channels and platforms.

We are trusted specialists in visual effects, creative technologies and content production Our projects include the creation of digital products and virtual experiences, as well as world class visual effects and video production.

We are a vibrant network of talented artists, producers, directors and creative technologists from multinational backgrounds. We nurture innovation, flexibility and diverse ideas across our studios in London, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Berlin and Bangalore. We are all united by one single ambition: To create extraordinary and memorable work that captivates and excites audiences.

We are The Mill. We create the extraordinary.

The role of Art Director (AD) at The Mill is one creative, innovation, ingenuity, leads, and builds the team. Responsible for working cohesively with a team of Designers, Illustrators, and Animators to create the unique vision developed for our clients. A Mill AD has an extensive knowledge of the Design/VFX & commercial advertising industry and can relate it to our clients' specific projects in the most unique, artistic way.

We are looking for a AD to help build the vision for the LA design team. Producing cutting edge 3D and 2D design commercials as well as music videos and film title sequences. Our AD will work closely with the support of the HoD and CD's to create boundary pushing work. Designing style frames and building a strong aesthetic on each project. The AD supports and mentors the team in the production pipeline by participating, lead meetings, and oversees design and animation.

Responsibilities:
• Art Direct projects for both internal and external clients, leading each project from conceptualization through to final product.
• Inspiring, conceptual, and creative ideas through and within the Design team.
• Mentor a productive and award-winning creative team, constantly improving and refining creative output at the highest level.
• Leading creative projects including the conceptualization and origination of design briefs and execution of the work across all disciplines.
• Ensure the response to brief aligns to client strategy and brand guidelines.
• Pitch with creative leads and production teams to win work from prospective clients.
• Working closely with the HoD, CD and Design Directors to provide & develop design solutions.
• Lead the art direction of visual content for Design, 2D and 3D projects.
• Leading artists on both production and creative, ensuring the highest creative output and quality control from conception through delivery to meet creative, budget and deadline expectations.
• Feedback on work with the creative teams in developing ideas, strategy, and pitch collateral for all Design projects.
• Present concepts and design ideas to clients and make recommendations where appropriate.
• Attend local awards and client events to build relations and create new leads for potential projects and business.
• Work closely with CD, Design Directors, and Designers to research, develop and implement new technology and creative ideas to mentor the team.
• Guide, teach and mentor Artists in the Design department in developing ideas further.
• Brief other members of the creative team and lead successful creative sessions for projects.
• Create, design, and animate where necessary, in collaboration with others.
• Weekly meetings with HoD, CD's and Producers.

Qualifications

An AD at The Mill will work closely with the CD for Design and the Design team on projects that require origination and creative development and thinking. The AD must be highly visually creative and in addition to an acute sense for visual aesthetics, have an in-depth knowledge of the technology used in aspects of Design. They will design for the projects of internal and external directors. They must also have an excellent awareness of client requirements and the ability to coordinate projects, communicate creative ideas, and guide clients through a creative process.
Our AD's must constantly research, develop and adapt new and current technology, creative ideas and techniques so that they remain at the forefront of our industry and develop a reputation for attracting and producing work that is innovative and highly original. They will be responsible for improving and refining creative output to build a culture of design around a vision set by the CD, HOD & EP. They are expected to manage projects from collaborative conceptualization through to final design and deliver the vision and creative process. The AD is confident that they can join a company that is among the most award-winning in its field and have the ability to guide it to the next level.
• Minimum 2-5 years of Art Direction, using C4D, Redshift or 2D style design tools.
• Ability to collaborate easily with directors, producers and designers.
• Ability to lead projects from pitch development to final conform and grade.
• Clear presentations skills to inspire the creative team and to present company goals and creative vision.
• Ability to visualize high end concepts into style frames.
• Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently internally and externally.
• In-depth knowledge of animation, 2D & 3D design and experience of design tools.
• Ability to supervise and mentor designers, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling projects.
• An active knowledge of working in 3D/2D animation pipeline is a must.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-d8mpq9-18-219-22-169-42 in your application.