Art Director - Novelty Publishing Job at Confidential in New York

Position Summary

We are a highly successful publishing and packaging company specializing in high-volume novelty books, sound books, interactive formats, and value-driven products sold through Costco, Sam’s Club, mass market, value retailers, and Amazon.

We are seeking a seasoned Art Director with 15–20+ years of experience specifically in novelty publishing, specialty book formats, and large-volume retail product development. This role requires deep expertise directing creative execution for novelty formats, sourcing world-class artists, and elevating product quality for highly competitive retail channels.

This position is based in New York City, with in-office expectations (hybrid arrangements may be considered).

Key Responsibilities

Creative Leadership & Direction

• Execute and elevate the Managing Director’s creative vision across all product lines.
• Present artists, their portfolios, art styles, and concept directions to the Managing Director for approval and strategic alignment.
• Lead the creative development of novelty books, sound books, book-plus formats, multi-component kits, and specialty packaging.

Design Development & Production

• Oversee concepting, design, illustration direction, and final mechanical file preparation.
• Work extensively with printer templates, manufacturer-provided dielines, and technical production specifications, ensuring accurate and manufacturable design.
• Manage design and novelty mechanics including sound modules, flaps, die-cuts, wheels, tabs, textures, and other interactive elements.
• Review proofs, Pre-production samples, and mass-production samples to ensure best-in-class quality.

Artist Sourcing & Management

• Identify, evaluate, and recruit top global artists suitable for club/value/mass and Amazon categories.
• Present curated talent options, sample styles, and art proposals to the Managing Director.
• Provide strong, clear art direction to freelance illustrators and graphic designers, maintaining quality and consistency.

Project Management & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Oversee timelines, schedules, approvals, and cross-departmental workflow.
• Partner with production, sales, and editorial teams to ensure creative output aligns with retailer expectations and margin requirements.
• Support sales with mockups, visual prototypes, and high-impact presentation materials.

Market & Channel Expertise

• Develop products specifically optimized for: Costco, Sam’s Club, Walmart, Target, BJ’s, Amazon.
• Maintain strong awareness of category trends in novelty formats and children’s value publishing.