Associate Creative Director
ABOUT STEPT STUDIOS
Stept is an award-winning creative, production, and post studio known for work that entertains rather than interrupts. We believe in the power of stories to transform businesses and shape culture. The stories we remember, talk about, and share connect on an emotional level and leave a lasting impact on culture. Our Creative and Entertainment team, along with our progressive roster of directors, represents the next generation of storytellers.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Stept is seeking an Associate Creative Director with a background in advertising and branded entertainment to join the Stept Creative team. This role operates at the intersection of live action, design, branding, and culture, developing and executing work for our top-tier clients. We’re looking for a strong, conceptual creative leader who can consistently deliver big ideas while supporting and mentoring junior talent within the organization.
The ideal candidate possesses a strategic mindset, exceptional creative judgment, and the ability to dream big while challenging boundaries to deliver results for our clients. This position reports directly to the Head of Creative + Entertainment.
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
Conceive, script, and oversee best-in-class creative and content ideas that are on-brand, on-strategy, on-time, and on-budget—from inception to production through post and delivery.
Develop and present compelling presentations that effectively sell your ideas.
Motivate, collaborate with, and inspire the creative team to produce attention-grabbing work that achieves business objectives.
Strategically interpret and challenge client briefs to deliver creative solutions that go above and beyond expectations.
Lead and balance multiple projects simultaneously.
Inspire and mentor junior team members.
Build and nurture a network of creative talent for full-time and freelance needs.
Uphold high creative standards and inspire the team to produce work that aligns with our mission.
Continuously refine creative direction, management, and leadership skills.
Stay updated on art and cultural trends, leveraging them to guide creative decisions.
DESIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
6–10 years of experience developing strategic creative for top-tier brands at reputable agencies.
Proven experience leading, managing, and mentoring creatives across varying levels of experience.
Strong ability to review and provide constructive feedback to creative teams.
Exceptional leadership skills that foster trust and respect among teams, clients, and departments.
Superior presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud programs (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, After Effects) as well as Keynote and Google Slides.
Interest in and experience with tech-powered creative tools for writing, image, and video generation.
Passion for storytelling and a deep understanding of best practices across social, digital, branded, and traditional advertising.
Proven ability to elevate creative ideas and executions with thoughtful, surprising approaches.
Expertise in building and maintaining strong working relationships with clients, departments, and team members.
Ability to manage multiple projects independently while maintaining a commitment to creative quality and collaboration.
A diverse portfolio of 360 campaigns demonstrating innovative thinking.
PERKS AND BENEFITS
Salary Range $100 - 140,000
Unlimited PTO
Paid Holidays + Sick Leave
Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
Company 401(k)
Tech Reimbursement
Flexible Hybrid Working - 3 days in Studio in El Segundo
HOW TO APPLY
Please send cover letter and resume to jobs@steptstudios.com
SUBJECT: ACD ROLE
Stept is committed to a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages all candidates to apply.