Associate Creative Director, Motion & Design

<p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Highwire’s creative team sits within the agency’s Innovation practice. We lead the creative strategy, design, and execution of powerful, valuable, and impactful ideas that drive business impact for our clients.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We weave insights into ideas, make ideas real, and combine multidimensional creativity with strategic storytelling so our clients stand out from the competition. We believe the biggest ideas don’t have to be the most complex, and we champion the importance of matching high-caliber creative delivery with strategic motivation.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">As the<strong> Associate Creative Director, Motion &amp; Design</strong>, you will be a driving creative force within the agency, working on Fortune 500 clients. You will bridge the gap between high-level conceptual thinking and flawless visual execution, specifically spearheading our motion graphics, video, and digital design output.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In this role, you will lead the creative development of multi-channel campaigns, brand visual identities, and immersive digital experiences for a diverse roster of clients. You aren't just managing the work; you are setting the visual standard, leading pitches, and inspiring a talented team of designers and animators to push boundaries across social media, digital content, events, and interactive platforms.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">You'll work seamlessly with our Creative Directors, Digital Strategy Leads, Project Managers, and Account teams to transform complex tech and B2B narratives into awe-inspiring visual stories. This position will report to the VP, Creative Director.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">You’ll co-lead creative for large-scale account engagements with high visibility and stakes. You’ll join at the ground floor of our AI-integrated production workflows, working directly within a guardrail architecture team. You’ll step into high-growth engagements, building a record of expanding scope and responsibility.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>About you:</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">You are someone who is equal parts visionary storyteller and hands-on artisan. You know how to command a room, translate client goals into stunning motion and design systems, and elevate the skills of the creatives around you.</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Creative Vision &amp; Motion Mastery: </strong>Your portfolio is a masterclass in modern digital design and dynamic motion graphics. You have a deep understanding of pacing, rhythm, and visual storytelling. You know how to break brand boundaries while respecting core parameters.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Leadership &amp; Mentorship:</strong> You are an empathetic, inspiring leader. You know how to give constructive, actionable creative feedback that elevates the work without crushing the creator's spirit. You have direct management experience, including delivering structured performance feedback and development conversations. You can point to specific examples of how you grew a team member's skill set or addressed underperformance directly.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Strategic Communication: </strong>You are an exceptional presenter and storyteller. You can confidently sell bold creative concepts to C-suite clients and translate abstract strategic goals into concrete visual directions. You have a track record of defending creative direction in the face of pushback rather than simply executing a brief handed to you.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Operational Excellence: </strong>You have owned delivery timelines across multiple concurrent workstreams, with a demonstrated ability to forecast capacity needs, flag bottlenecks before they hit deadlines, and escalate appropriately when scope or resourcing is at risk.</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Key Responsibilities</strong></span></p> <ul> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Creative Assessment &amp; Execution:</strong> Lead the conceptualization and execution of high-impact design and motion concepts for web, social campaigns, event experiences, brand video, and digital products.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Motion Pipeline Ownership:</strong> Establish and optimize the agency's motion design standards and best practices, including building scalable motion asset systems (templates, modular components, reusable frameworks) that support high-volume output without sacrificing brand consistency or craft quality. Own and continuously refine motion design workflows end to end (from storyboarding to final post-production), including capacity forecasting, escalation protocols, and bottleneck prediction across simultaneous high-volume workstreams.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>AI-Integrated Production: </strong>Operate within AI-supported creative production workflows, partnering with technical and AI-focused team members under established human-in-the-loop guardrails to balance speed, scale, and creative quality.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Client &amp; Pitch Leadership:</strong> Own creative presentations for major client accounts and high-stakes new business pitches. Effectively articulate the strategic "why" behind creative and motion-driven choices to non-creative stakeholders.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Account-Creative Alignment:</strong> Manage friction points between creative timelines and account or client demands, protecting production quality and team capacity while maintaining a collaborative cross-functional relationship.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Team Management &amp; Mentorship:</strong> Directly manage a team of motion designers and brand designers, including formal performance reviews and development planning. Foster a culture of continuous learning, creative experimentation, and technical growth, while holding the team to clear delivery and craft standards.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Brand Guardianship:</strong> Act as the primary guardian of Highwire’s own visual brand, while simultaneously ensuring clients' visual systems remain cohesive and forward-thinking across all mediums.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Cross-Functional Collaboration:</strong> Partner with Digital Strategy and Copy leads to ensure copy and visuals work in perfect harmony to drive measurable business results.</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Candidate requirements</span>&nbsp;</strong></span></p> <ul> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Experience:</strong> 8+ years of professional design and motion experience, with at least 3+ years in a dedicated creative leadership or player-coach role (agency experience heavily preferred). Demonstrated direct people management experience, including conducting formal performance evaluations, is required.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Portfolio:</strong> A portfolio demonstrating ownership of brand, motion, and video storytelling at a campaign or systems level, not just individual pieces, alongside strong typography, layout, and UI/UX fundamentals.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Technical Mastery:</strong> Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Premiere, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and Figma. Experience with 3D software (Cinema 4D or Blender) is a massive plus. Experience with Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve is helpful.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Design Systems:</strong> Deep experience creating, scaling, and maintaining comprehensive digital and motion design systems.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Strategic Intuition: Strong understanding of UX/UI principles, digital accessibility standards, and multi-platform social media optimization.</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Culture Fit: </strong>A thriving-under-pressure mentality with strong judgment for managing competing priorities across multiple concurrent projects. Working knowledge of AI-integrated creative workflows, including comfort operating within human-in-the-loop guardrails for AI-supported concepting and production.</span></li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><em>The salary range for this position is $110,000 to $150,000, with the final offer based on a combination of factors, including education, relevant experience, skills, prior training, internal equity, and local geographic market data. This role also includes a competitive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, generous paid time off, and additional perks designed to support your overall well-being and growth. </em><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><em>#LI-Hybrid</em></span></span></p><div class="content-conclusion"><p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>About Highwire</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Highwire is a strategic marketing communications agency at the intersection of innovation and industry. We partner with ambitious companies and established brands to navigate complexity, lead markets, and grow with purpose. With integrated expertise in strategic marketing and communications, corporate reputation, creative, and insights, we cut through the noise to deliver bold ideas and measurable impact across B2B technology, healthcare, cybersecurity, energy, professional and financial services, and more.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">At Highwire, we believe that storytelling fuels transformation. We know that the most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of age, race/ethnicity, size, shape, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and different abilities–can feel safe, celebrated and worthy.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We ensure that every Highwire Walker has the requisite support to soar in their careers. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging is foundational and embedded in our business and culture. We aspire to change our industry and build a better future for all.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Our people-first culture is driven by <em>four</em> core values:</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Team Empowerment</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Growth Mindset</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Inclusion Always</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fierce Distinction</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We’re looking for individuals with big ideas, strong opinions, and the energy to bring them to life. If you thrive in an environment that values personal accountability, high standards, and boundless motivation, this is the opportunity for you. Be part of our award-winning culture and contribute to an exciting and growing business where you can make a real impact.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Highwire. Above all.</span></p> <hr> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Our people-first culture is reflected in the meaningful benefits, flexibility, and support we offer:</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Competitive salary with merit-based opportunities for growth</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Flexible hybrid work model tailored to your schedule and lifestyle</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Generous vacation policy, including extended summer and winter breaks</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Early log-off on Fridays through our Empower Hours program</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">401(k) plan with employer matching</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus FSA options</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Paid parental leave benefits</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Commuter benefits</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Annual Growth Mindset stipend for books, events, or learning experiences</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Monthly technology reimbursement</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Wellness benefit program for mental and physical health</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">501c3 donation matching program</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Monthly recognition and team celebrations</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Employee referral and new business referral bonuses</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Quarterly Highwire events and team gatherings</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Dog-friendly office environment</span></li> <li style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where you can grow and do your best work</span></li> </ul> <hr> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif;">Location &amp; Work Environment</span></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Highwire offers both remote and hybrid work options, depending on where you live.</span></p> <p style="padding-left: 40px;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Hybrid: </strong>Candidates located within commuting distance of our New York, NY or San Francisco, CA offices follow a hybrid schedule, with three in-office days per week.</span></p> <p style="padding-left: 40px;"><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Remote:</strong> We hire for fully remote roles in the following states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C..</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Please note: We are only able to consider candidates who reside in one of the locations listed above at the time of hire.</span></em></p> <hr> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif;">Join the Highwire team</span></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">If you’re inspired by the opportunity to shape meaningful stories and grow alongside a team that values innovation, accountability, and inclusion, apply below to start the conversation.</span></p> <p data-start="702" data-end="832"><em><span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Please note: This posting may be used to build our talent pipeline, connect with top professionals in the industry, or extend reach across multiple locations. We welcome all interested candidates to apply and explore opportunities at Highwire!</span></em></p></div>