Senior Director, Creative Art Direction

Job no: 648091
Position type: Regular (Full-Time)
Location: Orlando
Division/Equivalent: Universal Creative
School/Unit: Universal Orlando
Categories: Universal Creative - Design/Studio

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At Universal Creative, we design, develop and deliver the most compelling entertainment experiences imaginable to drive growth for Universal Destinations & Experiences worldwide. Our innovative attractions, immersive theme parks and world-class resorts fuse art and technology to create new standards in the themed entertainment industry.

Our Team Members are the driving force behind Universal Creative. With their diverse skills and forward-thinking ideas, our team pushes us beyond the boundaries of what’s possible to achieve the extraordinary. Together, we’re creating a Universe of fun, always ensuring the next thing we do is better than the last thing we did.

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Director, Creative Art Direction provides strategic leadership to shape and deliver creative projects that align with organizational goals and brand vision. This role oversees the core creative team, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, mentoring Creative Art Directors and Concept Designers, and promoting proactive problem-solving. The Senior Director acts as a versatile leader, integrating efforts across design, engineering, architecture, art direction, and project management to achieve cohesive outcomes. They champion innovative strategies, guide teams from ideation to execution, and build strong relationships with executive leadership and IP partners to drive collaboration and enhance brand value.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

  • Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of creative projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and brand vision.
  • Lead core creative teams, providing clear direction, mentorship, and resources to deliver high-quality outcomes.
  • Mentor department team members, offering guidance and feedback to support professional growth.
  • Promote proactive problem-solving and decision-making, enabling teams to drive projects forward efficiently.
  • Optimize team performance and resource allocation through effective management practices, ensuring accountability and excellence.
  • Lead cross-disciplinary efforts across design, engineering, architecture, art direction, and project management to deliver impactful creative solutions.
  • Champion innovation by guiding teams through the creative process, from concept ideation to final execution, while staying ahead of industry trends.

Leadership of Craft

  • Drive continuous improvement of creative techniques and processes, mentoring team members to refine their skills and elevate their craft.
  • Develop and execute strategic creative initiatives that align with organizational goals, providing clear direction to ensure efficient project delivery.
  • Lead the creation of compelling visual and physical art that transform narratives into tangible, immersive experiences—blending visual storytelling, spatial design, and emotional resonance to physicalize a brand’s essence. Through collaborative ideation and craft, they shape environments that not only reflect the brand’s identity but also invite audiences to feel, explore, and connect with its story in meaningful, memorable ways.
  • Oversee the development and delivery of the physical and visual art that represents scope and creative intent of an immersive experience.
  • Guide the creative process from initial ideation to final execution, ensuring concepts are feasible and maintain the original vision.
  • Champion the creative intent throughout all project stages, ensuring final deliverables reflect the intended vision and uphold high standards of quality.

Executive Partnership & Communication

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with executive leadership, including Presidents and IP partners, to align creative strategies with organizational goals.
  • Facilitate seamless communication across divisions, ensuring stakeholders are informed and engaged in the creative process.
  • Lead collaboration between creative teams and departments like marketing and product development to integrate diverse perspectives and drive innovative solutions.
  • Provide leadership and influence among creative peers, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Partner with Presidents and IP partners to develop creative strategies that enhance brand value and support business growth.

Culture

  • Cultivate a collaborative and innovative environment that inspires teams to solve problems creatively and deliver results.
  • Lead with optimism and a solution-oriented approach, motivating teams to achieve excellence.
  • Align with corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, promoting a workplace where all voices are valued and respected.

Other

  • Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree in Theater, Art, Film or Architecture is preferred.

EXPERIENCE

15+ years designing experience-based entertainment for world-class theme parks or related industries; must have 9+ years art direction or production design and field experience based on Universal Creative standards; or equivalent combination of education and experience.   

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2025 Universal Studios. © 2025 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. EOE

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