Art Director (Freelance)

About Us
Rapt is an award-winning design and strategy studio that helps leading brands navigate the complex challenges of this ever-changing world. With locations in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York — and with clients spanning the globe — we bring fresh thinking and a highly customized approach to each and every partnership. Our interdisciplinary teams blend architecture, interior design, brand experience, graphic design, and strategic thinking into holistic solutions that further our clients’ missions. Our agile approach earned us the distinction of being named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies.

We’re a studio built on connection. The best work happens shoulder-to-shoulder—pin-ups, workshops, model reviews—because ideas move faster in person. We work hybrid: three days together in the studio, with more as projects demand. We value flexibility, but this role isn’t remote; candidates must be local to one of our studios and available onsite regularly.

About You
Vital to our studio’s success, the Art Director is intimately involved in projects across Rapt’s teams and locations. They are charged with considering every touchpoint involved in projects while ensuring that client engagements meet expectations. Responsible for the depth and strategy applied to Rapt’s design work from conception to realization, this person lends their perspective and expertise from the visual and graphic design realm.

The Art Director is at the frontlines of our creative interface with clients, serving as the liaison with our teams and working closely with Account Directors in coordinating communication. They work with our Strategy Director and Design Directors to assure that all projects are seen through multiple lenses and delivered on the promise of the power of our interdisciplinary process.

This person is also responsible for assisting in the development of pitches and interviews so that the studio can continue thriving with interesting, challenging projects.

Qualifications

10+ years of experience working in a creative agency, design studio, or similar environment

Proficient with Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Sketch, and G-Suite

Experience leading project teams from concept to delivery

Experience mentoring, developing, and guiding younger design staff

Proven record of leading pitches and winning work

We’re looking for someone with

Familiarity with project delivery, schedule/budget review, freelance/partner coordination, and client interface

Experience creating and leading partnerships with other agencies, vendors, and/or multidisciplinary consultants

Strong visual, graphic, communication, and organization skills

Experience in digital, three-dimensional, and art realms

A willingness and ability to tackle the unexpected and unknown

An interest in working collaboratively and iteratively with others

An interest in pursuing further education and inspiration

Foresight and exceptional conceptual thinking skills

Confidence in decision-making and risk-taking

A positive outlook, especially in challenging situations

Self-editing instincts

We do not use artificial intelligence or automated systems to screen or evaluate job applications. Every application is reviewed by a real member of our team. Because our process is fully human-led and we prioritize thoughtful review, response times may be slower than companies that rely on automation. We appreciate your patience and the care you put into applying.

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