Mediabistro logo
job logo

Creative Director/Talent Manager

Mills James, Cincinnati, OH, USA

Job type: Freelance


Mills James is seeking an experienced and visionary Creative Director and Video Production expert to lead high-level creative strategy and execution for premier clients. This senior leadership role is responsible for shaping compelling visual storytelling, guiding cross-functional production teams, and ensuring the delivery of best-in-class video content. The Creative Director will partner directly with executive-level clients and internal stakeholders to develop innovative concepts, oversee production from ideation through delivery, and lead a team of video professionals. This role requires a balance of creative excellence, business acumen, and strong leadership to maintain Mills James’ reputation for quality and innovation.

Essential Functions

Creative Leadership & Vision

  • Lead the development of creative concepts, storytelling approaches, and visual strategies for video and multimedia projects
  • Ensure all creative output aligns with client objectives, brand standards, and Mills James quality expectations
  • Facilitate and direct creative brainstorming sessions, pitches, and presentations
  • Provide hands-on creative direction and Producer role during pre-production, production, and post-production phase

Team Leadership & Development

  • Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of producers, editors, videographers, and creative staff
  • Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing creative culture
  • Manage team workloads, schedules, and resource allocation to ensure project success
  • Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and professional development opportunities

Client Engagement & Strategy

  • Serve as a primary creative lead for high-profile clients, building strong, trusted relationships
  • Translate client goals into compelling creative solutions and production strategies
  • Present concepts, lead client reviews, and ensure satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle
  • Partner with sales and leadership on new business development and pitch strategy

Project Oversight & Execution

  • Collaborate with operations and production teams to define project scope, budgets, and timelines
  • Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and at the highest creative standard
  • Oversee the use of internal and freelance resources to optimize production capabilities
  • Maintain quality control across all deliverables and production processes
  • Role includes sourcing and securing talent auditions, negotiating usage terms, rates, booking, managing schedules, contracts distribution, preparing documentation with our partners and working with paymaster services

Measures of Success

  • Creative Excellence: Consistent delivery of innovative, high-quality video content that meets or exceeds client expectations and strengthens Mills James’ brand reputation
  • Client Satisfaction & Retention: Positive client feedback, repeat business, and growth of key accounts
  • Project Performance: Ability to deliver projects on time and within budget while maintaining creative integrity
  • Team Engagement & Development: Strong team retention, professional growth of direct reports, and positive internal feedback on leadership effectiveness
  • Operational Efficiency: Effective resource management, including appropriate use of internal staff and freelance talent
  • Business Contribution: Support of new business efforts, including successful pitches and contribution to revenue growth

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in video production, with at least 5 years in a leadership or creative direction role
  • Demonstrated success leading creative teams and delivering high-quality video content for clients or agencies
  • Strong portfolio showcasing creative direction, storytelling, and visual execution
  • Deep knowledge of video production workflows, technologies, and industry best practices
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects, clients, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with corporate, commercial, or agency clients
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud and production tools/workflows
  • Social media expertise
  • Bachelor’s degree in film, Media Production, Communications, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Benefits

  • AnthemERC Medical and Wellness, Guardian dental, and vision coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401(k) and Roth 401(k) with discretionary company match
  • Paid time off and holiday

Physical & Work Environment Requirements (ADA-Compliant)

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
  • Frequent use of computers and production equipment
  • Ability to travel to client sites and production locations as needed
  • Occasionally lift and/or move equipment up to 25 pounds
  • Work performed in office, studio, and on-location production environments

Compensation details: Yearly Salary

#J-18808-Ljbffr