Equator is a global packaging design agency, delivering strategy to shelf without compromise. We create powerful brands that get noticed and chosen. Equator is part of SGK.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Associate Creative Director assists the Creative Director with developing and directing creative vision and execution of client assignments. This position is responsible for defining of the creative brief, creative strategy, and creative solution, and the approach to and presentation of the overall project. The Associate Creative Director champions and protects the brand and/or creative idea while leading and inspiring teams to deliver the best creative solution that ultimately shapes communications for various touchpoints. This position supports the Creative Director in leading presentations with clients and is accountable for ensuring the creative deliverables are aligned with the brief and meet or exceed client expectations.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Maintains senior-level relationships with CD and client; establishes trusted advisor relationships in which clients and colleagues seek out advice and counsel.
Acts as a strategic partner to assigned clients by demonstrating a deep understanding of their market and business sectors and their specific challenges and opportunities. Provides thought leadership, insights, and perspectives that support client initiatives and align our services with client needs.
Ensures Creative Design deliverables (i.e. visual concept, design, textual content, etc.) follow project specifications and meet or exceed client needs.
Provides clear expectations to our internal production group.
Monitors progress of ongoing Creative Design projects; provides guidance and leadership to address and resolve promptly, accurately, effectively, and to the client's satisfaction, any issues or problems that may arise.
Leads project review sessions for assigned clients; utilizes information from review sessions to recommend best practices for copy excellence.
Ensures accurate, consistent, and timely completion of the highest-level client copywriting deliverables within budget and based on objectives and concepts established by the client. 

Develops creative, innovative, and cost-effective Creative strategies that meet client needs, utilizing project experience, current market trends, competitor intelligence, and innovative thinking.
Works closely with multiple teams, departments and clients to create, develop, and complete solutions for specific projects.
Engages with teams to manage the deliverables of final details and files to ensure a smooth hand-off and a profitable program.
Supports Company's profitability efforts by encouraging and actively enabling innovation, creativity, and cost efficiency through all Creative Design client activities.
Ensures client retention is maximized by delivering custom tailored solutions to meet clients' objectives and expectations.
Additional duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor's Degree in Art, Design, Marketing or related field
Advanced degree (MBA, Master's) preferred
8+ years of previous Art, Design, Marketing experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience
Periodic travel either locally, nationally, and/or internationally may be required.
High degree of proficiency in MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications.
Strong verbal and written communication skills (including analysis, interpretation, & reasoning).
Solid understanding and application of mathematical concepts.
Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with peers and colleagues across the organization, as well as, internal and external clients.
Ability to work well autonomously and within a team in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
Ability to work with and influence peers and management.
Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting.
PHYSICAL ASPECTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
Regularly required to stand; walk; sit; and talk, hear and see.
Regularly/Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
* Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
At Matthews International, what makes us different is what makes us great. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
