how to write a resume for artistic director

• • Spearheaded the development of an innovative arts curriculum that boosted student enrollment by 15% within the first year
• • Coached and supported a diverse team of 10 Arts Mentors, enhancing team performance and improving mentor retention by 20%
• • Secured partnerships with local artists for workshops, increasing community engagement by 30%
• • Oversaw budget management for arts supplies, reducing expenses by 10% while maintaining program quality
• • Implemented a successful showcase event series, leading to a 25% increase in local sponsorships
• • Led the integration of technology in arts education, resulting in a 40% increase in student interactive participation
• • Developed a comprehensive arts education program catering to over 200 students annually
• • Managed the successful transition to virtual learning platforms amidst the pandemic with 100% program continuity
• • Collaborated with local art galleries to exhibit student work, leading to enhanced exposure and 3 students receiving scholarships
• • Cultivated a positive learning environment that improved student satisfaction scores by 15%
• • Designed and conducted professional development sessions for arts instructors, improving teaching strategies
• • Revamped the visual arts curriculum, resulting in a 20% increase in student artwork awards
• • Integrated multicultural art projects into the curriculum, enhancing student cultural awareness
• • Facilitated after-school arts programs, increasing student participation by 25%
• • Organized annual student art exhibitions, attracting over 300 community members each year

5 Artistic Director Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

An artistic director must highlight their successful track record in leading productions. Your resume should reflect a versatile portfolio demonstrating your unique creative vision. It is essential to showcase your leadership experience, overseeing a collaborative creative process. Prove your capability in managing budgets effectively, to reassure potential employers of your financial acumen.

All resume examples in this guide

Traditional

Resume Guide

Resume Format Tips

Resume Experience

Skills on Resume

Education & Certifications

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

As an artistic director, one challenge you may encounter is effectively showcasing the depth and breadth of your creative projects to stand out in a competitive field. Our guide offers targeted strategies and examples to help you articulate your unique vision and leadership skills, ensuring your resume resonates with hiring committees.

• Aligning the top one-third of your artistic director resume with the role you're applying for.
• Curating your specific artistic director experience to get the attention of recruiters.
• How to list your relevant education to impress hiring managers recruiting for the artistic director role.

Discover more artistic director professional examples to help you write a job-winning resume.

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Formatting the layout of your artistic director resume: design, length, and more

• If you have plenty of experience, you'd like to showcase, invest in the reverse-chronological resume format . This format focuses on your latest experience items and skills you've learned during your relevant (and recent) jobs.
• Don't go over the two-page limit, when creating your professional artistic director resume. Curate within it mainly experience and skills that are relevant to the job.
• Make sure your artistic director resume header includes all of your valid contact information. You could also opt to display your professional portfolio or LinkedIn profile.
• Submit or send out your artistic director resume as a PDF, so you won't lose its layout and design.

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Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Highlight any significant extracurricular activities that demonstrate valuable skills or leadership.

Essential sections that should make up your artistic director resume include:

• The header - with your contact details (e.g. email and telephone number), link to your portfolio, and headline
• The summary (or objective) - to spotlight the peaks of your professional career, so far
• The experience section - with up to six bullets per role to detail specific outcomes
• The skills list - to provide a healthy mix between your personal and professional talents
• The education and certification - showing your most relevant degrees and certificates to the artistic director role

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing innovative and successful artistic programs or productions.
• Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to inspire, manage, and work collaboratively with creative teams and staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the capacity to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including artists, sponsors, and audiences.
• A history of financial acumen, including budget management and fundraising abilities relevant to arts organizations.
• An in-depth understanding of and appreciation for the artistic field relevant to the organization (e.g., theatre, dance, music, visual arts), as demonstrated by past programming and critical engagement.

Adding your relevant experience to your artistic director resume

If you're looking for a way to show recruiters that your expertise is credible, look no further than the resume experience section.

Your artistic director resume experience can be best curated in a structured, bulleted list detailing the particulars of your career:

• Always integrate metrics of success - what did you actually achieve in the role?
• Scan the artistic director advert for your dream role in search of keywords in the job requirements - feature those all through your past/current experience;
• Dedicate a bullet (or two) to spotlight your technical capabilities and how you're able to use the particular software/technology in your day-to-day roles;
• Write simple by including your responsibility, a job advert keyword or skill, and a tangible outcome of your success;
• Use the experience section to also define the unique value of working with you in the form of soft skills, relevant feedback, and the company culture you best thrive in.

Industry leaders always ensure that their resume experience section offers an enticing glimpse at their expertise, while telling a career narrative. Explore these sample artistic director resumes on how to best create your resume experience section.

• Spearheaded the artistic vision and programming for annual theater productions, contributing to a 25% increase in audience attendance over four years.
• Cultivated relationships with playwrights and directors, securing exclusive rights to premiere two award-winning plays at the theater.
• Directed and coordinated fundraising efforts that generated over $500,000 in grants and donations, earmarked for artistic production costs.
• Developed a comprehensive digital strategy for the art institution, integrating virtual experiences, which drew an additional 10,000 online subscribers.
• Launched a community outreach program targeting underrepresented groups, increasing local participation by 40% and enriching the cultural diversity of performances.
• Implemented a talent development initiative that nurtured young artists, 15 of whom secured competitive industry positions or critical acclaim in their fields.
• Oversaw the artistic direction for a prominent international film festival, resulting in a record-breaking attendance of over 100,000 participants.
• Initiated and managed cross-industry collaborations with digital media firms, enhancing the festival's multimedia exhibits and interactive installations.
• Led a team of curators, fostering a culture of innovation that saw the introduction of 20 new genre categories, further broadening the festival's appeal.
• Orchestrated a rebranding initiative for a historic performing arts venue, preserving its legacy while introducing modern elements that attracted a new generation of patrons.
• Pioneered a successful partnership with an international dance company, resulting in a bespoke residency program that delivered 10 sold-out performances.
• Secured and managed a budget exceeding $2 million, allocating funds strategically to maximize operational efficiency and creative excellence.
• Transformed the art gallery's exhibition lineup, introducing immersive and technology-driven displays that elevated visitor numbers by 35%.
• Forged significant partnerships with local educational institutions, resulting in jointly-curated exhibitions that won 'Best Collaboration' award.
• Systematized creative processes among departments, leading to a 20% reduction in turnaround time for exhibit preparation and execution.
• Pioneered a dynamic season program for a regional theater, increasing season ticket holder sales by 30% through targeted promotions and loyalty programs.
• Directed multiple critically-acclaimed theatrical productions, each generating over $300,000 in profits, substantially increasing the company's national reputation.
• Promoted a mentoring scheme that supported aspiring artists in the community, effectively engaging over 200 participants in skill-building workshops and seminars.
• Managed artistic operations for a leading fashion house, overseeing the design and launch of six groundbreaking clothing lines that defined seasonal trends.
• Established a sustainability initiative within the design process, significantly reducing waste by 30% while maintaining product quality and style.
• Curated exclusive industry events attended by key figures in fashion, press, and influencers, strengthening brand image and market position.
• Enhanced the visual ethos of a national ballet company, curating costumes and set designs that won 'Outstanding Production Design' at a renowned arts festival.
• Initiated a digital transformation for the company's advertising campaigns, leveraging social media platforms to double online engagement metrics.
• Negotiated key partnerships with international sponsors, bringing in annual sponsorship deals worth over $1.5 million to fund new productions.

Quantifying impact on your resume

• Quantify the total budget managed across various productions to demonstrate financial oversight and responsibility.
• Include the number of shows produced or directed, highlighting volume and experience in managing multiple projects.
• Cite the percentage increase in ticket sales or audience size under your artistic direction to showcase growth and market impact.
• Mention the number of new works commissioned or premieres staged to emphasize contribution to original content and artistic innovation.
• List the number of awards and recognitions received for productions to validate excellence and industry recognition.
• Detail the size of teams led and collaborated with, including cast, crew, and administrative staff, to indicate leadership and coordination skills.
• State the number of collaborations with local businesses, schools, or community organizations to show community involvement and outreach.
• Report measurable improvements in social media following or engagement rates to exhibit marketing savvy and audience development.

Action verbs for your artistic director resume

Guide for artistic director professionals kicking off their career

Who says you can't get that artistic director job, even though you may not have that much or any experience? Hiring managers have a tendency to hire the out-of-the-blue candidate if they see role alignment. You can show them why you're the best candidate out there by:

• Selecting the functional skill-based or hybrid formats to spotlight your unique value as a professional
• Tailoring your artistic director resume to always include the most important requirements, found towards the top of the job ad
• Substituting the lack of experience with other relevant sections like achievements, projects, and research
• Pinpoint both achievements and how you see yourself within this specific role in the artistic director resume objective.

Recommended reads:

• Perfecting the Education Section on Your Resume
• When Should You Include Your High School on Your Resume?

List your educational qualifications and certifications in reverse chronological order.

The right balance between hard skills and soft skills for your artistic director resume

Wondering what the perfect artistic director resume looks like? The candidate's profile meets job requirements by balancing both hard skills and soft skills across their resume.

• Hard skills are all the technologies you're apt at using . Prove you have the right technical background by listing key industry hardware/software in your artistic director resume skills section and noteworthy certifications.
• Soft skills are both your personal, mindset, communication, analytical, and problem-solving talents . Use your artistic director resume achievements section to show how you've used a particular soft skill to reach a tangible outcome.

When writing about your unique skill set, always make sure to refer back to the job advert to see what are the key requirements. This ensures you've tailored your resume so that it matches closer to what the ideal candidate profile is.

Top skills for your artistic director resume:

Artistic Vision

Budget Management

Fundraising and Grant Writing

Project Management

Event Planning

Knowledge of Theatre History

Graphic Design

Marketing and Public Relations

Talent Recruitment and Development

Technical Production Proficiency

Communication

Collaboration

Decision Making

Problem-Solving

Adaptability

Emotional Intelligence

Visionary Thinking

What are the best certificates to add to your artistic director resume + how to curate your education section

The education and certification resume sections are the underdogs of your artistic director resume.

They showcase to recruiters that you've invested plenty of time to gain valuable and specific know-how, vital for growth.

As far as the resume education section is concerned:

• Detail only advanced education, specifying the institution and timeframe.
• Indicate your forthcoming graduation date if you're in the midst of your studies.
• Consider omitting degrees that don't align with the job's requirements.
• Offer a description of your academic journey if it underscores your notable achievements.

When curating your degrees and certificates on your artistic director resume:

• Select only accreditation that matters to the role
• Niche knowledge that could help you stand out as a candidate (as is within the past few years), should be listed towards the top of your resume
• Include any pertinent data for credibility (e.g. institute name, graduation dates, etc.)
• Irrelevant degrees and certifications shouldn't make it on your resume. Those include your high school diploma and any specializations that have nothing to do with the technical or soft skills that are required for the job

As a final note, if you feel tempted to exclude your education or certification from your resume, don't.

These two sections could help you have a better competitive edge over other candidates - hinting that your professional journey in the industry may be for a longer period of time.

Recruiters find all of these artistic director credentials impressive:

The top 5 certifications for your artistic director resume:

• Certified Performing Arts Executive (CPAE) - Association of Performing Arts Professionals
• Arts Management Certificate (AMC) - University of Massachusetts Amherst
• Certificate in Nonprofit Management (CNM) - Duke University
• Certificate in Arts and Culture Strategy (CACS) - University of Pennsylvania
• Professional Certificate in Visual Arts Management (PCVAM) - New York University

Always remember that your artistic director certifications can be quantified across different resume sections, like your experience, summary, or objective. For example, you could include concise details within the expertise bullets of how the specific certificate has improved your on-the-job performance.

• How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)
• How to List GPA on Your Resume

Writing the artistic director resume summary or objective: achievements, keywords, dreams, and more

Deciding on whether to include a resume summary or resume objective should entirely depend on your career situation.

If you have:

• Plenty of relevant achievements you'd like to bring recruiters' focus to, make use of the resume summary. Ensure each of your achievements is quantified with concrete proof (e.g. % of cases solved).
• Less applicable experience, utilize the resume objective. Within the objective include a few noteworthy, past successes, followed up by your professional dreams.

As a bonus, you could define in either your artistic director resume summary or objective what makes you the perfect candidate for the role.

Think about your unique hard and soft skills that would make your expertise even more important to the job.

These artistic director professionals have completely covered the formula for the ideal resume introduction:

Resume summaries for a artistic director job

• Seasoned Artistic Director with over 15 years of experience in orchestrating avant-garde theater productions. Proven track record in elevating the brand of The Grandiose Theater House by diversifying the repertoire and securing multiple prestigious awards. Skilled in leveraging innovative stage technology and remarkable talent acquisition to captivate audiences and critics alike.
• Dynamic leader and former Creative Director in advertising stepping into the Artistic Director role with 10 years of experience in campaign strategy. Accustomed to managing high-stakes projects and enriching brand narratives, now eager to redirect creative energies to revolutionize live performance experiences and audience engagement in the theatrical sector.
• With a decade of experience as a Chief Curator for renowned art galleries, this candidate brings a unique perspective to the role of Artistic Director. Expert in exhibition design and artist collaboration, she aims to transcend traditional performance boundaries, fostering a dialogue between visual arts and innovative theater productions.
• An enthusiastic aspirant to the world of theatrical arts, possessing extensive customer relations background and a BA in Performing Arts. Committed to leveraging superb communication skills and a deep-seated passion for drama to contribute to a vibrant artistic community and to gain hands-on experience in stagecraft and production management.
• A former music industry executive with over 12 years of experience in talent management and event production, looking to pivot into the role of an Artistic Director. Keen to apply expertise in artist development, strategic planning, and live event execution to propel a forward-thinking theatre company to new artistic heights.
• Eager to begin a career as an Artistic Director, this MBA graduate possesses a rare blend of business acumen and a lifelong dedication to the performing arts. Driven to apply strategic management skills and an innovative mindset to produce groundbreaking performances that resonate with diverse audiences and sustain the artistic community's vibrancy.

Taking your artistic director resume to the next level with these four additional resume sections

Your artistic director resume can feature a variety of skills (both hard and soft) in diverse sections . Choose those that align best with the job requirements and reflect your suitability for the company culture.

Consider these four additional resume sections recommended by our experts:

• Languages - State any languages you are proficient in and your level of proficiency. This demonstrates your commitment to communication and potential for international growth.
• Projects - Highlight up to three significant projects you've completed outside of work, showcasing skill development. Include a link to your project portfolio in the artistic director resume header, if applicable.
• My Time - How you allocate your time outside work can indicate your organizational skills and cultural fit within the company.
• Volunteering - Detail causes you're passionate about, roles you've held, and achievements in volunteering. Such experiences likely have honed a range of soft skills crucial for your dream job.

Key takeaways

Writing your artistic director resume can be a structured and simple experience, once you better understand the organization's requirements for the role you're applying to. To sum up, we'd like to remind you to:

• Always select which experiences, skills, and achievements to feature on your resume based on relevancy to the role;
• In your resume summary, ensure you've cherry-picked your top achievements and matched them with the job ad's skills;
• Submit your artistic director resume as a one or two-page long document at the most, in a PDF format;
• Select industry leading certifications and list your higher education to highlight you have the basis for technical know-how;
• Quantify your people's skills through various resume sections (e.g. Strengths, Hobbies and interests, etc.) to show recruiters how your profile aligns with the organizational culture.

Looking to build your own Artistic Director resume?

• Resume Examples

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3 Art Director Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

If you have an eye for design, art direction might be the career for you. as an art director, your job is to create a vision and oversee that vision coming to life. we have created this guide to help you construct a winning resume highlighting your art direction qualifications to impress recruiters and secure yourself a job interview..

Art direction is growing at the average job growth rate with an 11% employment growth expected for the profession between 2021 and 2031. You may find an art director on a film set, in a magazine company, in a PR firm, or a range of other creative spaces. They are at the helm of the creation of a visual concept. They will decide which art or media to use and coordinate the creative vision's realization.

The title of art director requires a blend of an art & design educational background, a great visual eye, and excellent communication and leadership skills. Below are 3 resume samples that highlight the above successfully, as well as some tips and suggestions to elevate your resume today.

Art Director Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

Art Director

• Senior Art Director
• Junior Art Director

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• Keywords for Art Director Resumes

Art Director Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Design Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 3: Art Director Resume Example

An art director is tasked with creating an engaging visual way to convey a desired message or concept. Many art directors work on a contract basis, while some work in PR firms, various publishers, and advertising agencies, amongst others. Your tasks may include developing a concept, creating a budget, supervising the staff bringing your vision to life, and presenting the finished work for approval to the client. You will be expected to have at least a bachelor’s degree in art, design, or a related field, as well as experience in the art medium the company uses. Take a look at this recruiter-approved art director resume.

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Tips to help you write your Art Director resume in 2024

   create a portfolio of your best work..

Show recruiters what you can do by compiling samples of your best work into a portfolio. Try to include all the strong samples from the art medium of the company you are applying to.

   Include the latest design software in your tools section.

Keep your tools section current by updating it often and including the newest design software. If you aren’t familiar with the software, take a crash course online before adding it to your resume.

Skills you can include on your Art Director resume

Template 2 of 3: senior art director resume example.

A senior art director is a highly respected professional in the creative industry. This is largely a leadership role where you will be guiding a team or department as opposed to doing direct design work yourself. Your tasks may include consulting with clients, concept creation, communicating your vision to your team, guiding your team, handling budgets and purchases, etc. As this is a senior position, a bachelor’s degree in design, or a related field, is expected, as is at least 5-10 years of successful experience as an art director. Here is a strong senior art director resume sample to give you an idea of what recruiters are looking for.

Tips to help you write your Senior Art Director resume in 2024

   highlight your successes as a mentor..

Part of your job will include mentoring members of your team or department. Ensure you highlight any mentorship experience you may have. Not only will it show capability, but it’ll also show that you excelled enough in the profession to be considered a mentor.

   Include any language you know.

Communication is a very big part of your job. Knowing more than one language is therefore bound to give you an edge, especially if the company you are applying to is international. List all languages you know and how proficient you are with each.

Skills you can include on your Senior Art Director resume

Template 3 of 3: junior art director resume example.

A junior art director assists in the creation of a design concept and the execution of the concept. Your tasks may include communicating the concept to the team or other stakeholders, training team members on design skills, overseeing the execution of the concept, etc. Like the rest of the team or department, you will be answerable to the senior art director, and you will serve as their representative when they are not present. You will be expected to have at least a bachelor’s degree in design, or a related field, as well as extensive experience in design and leadership. Take a look at this strong resume sample as a reference.

Tips to help you write your Junior Art Director resume in 2024

   gain certification in design and design tools..

Stand out from the crowd by going the extra mile to gain design certification. It shows commitment to the profession and also your high skill level in design.

   Work on expanding your tools list.

The design tools list will tell recruiters a lot about your capabilities and experience. Recruiters want to see that you know how to use all the industry standard tools, especially the newest ones. So work on becoming knowledgeable on as many design tools as possible. Take it a step further by getting certified in using as many tools as possible.

Skills you can include on your Junior Art Director resume

We spoke to hiring managers at top creative agencies like Wieden+Kennedy, Droga5, and Ogilvy, and they shared exactly what they look for in an Art Director resume. From our research, here are the most important tips to keep in mind when applying to an Art Director role.

   Showcase your creative portfolio

Art Directors are responsible for the visual style of a project, so hiring managers want to see examples of your creative work. Include a link to your online portfolio in your resume header.

In your work experience, describe 2-3 of your most impressive projects. Explain the creative vision, your role, and the impact of the work.

• Led the creative direction for Nike's "Just Do It" campaign, resulting in a 15% increase in sales and a Cannes Lion award
• Developed the visual identity for the rebranding of Airbnb, including the new logo, color palette, and photography style

   Highlight your leadership experience

Art Directors often manage a team of designers, so it's important to demonstrate your leadership skills on your resume.

• Worked with a team of designers
• Managed multiple projects simultaneously

Instead, quantify your leadership experience and the impact you had:

• Led a team of 5 designers to deliver projects on time and under budget
• Mentored and trained 3 junior designers, resulting in their promotion to senior roles within a year

   Quantify your achievements

Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to make your achievements more tangible and impressive to hiring managers.

Weak, unspecific bullets:

• Designed many successful campaigns
• Improved client satisfaction

Stronger, quantified bullets:

• Created campaigns for 10+ Fortune 500 clients, including Pepsi and Microsoft
• Implemented a new client feedback process, increasing client satisfaction scores by 25%

   Tailor your skills to the job

While it's tempting to list every skill you have, focus on the ones that are most relevant to the Art Director role you're applying for. Read the job description carefully and mirror the language they use.

For example, if the job emphasizes digital design, you could include:

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• UI/UX design
• Responsive web design

If the role is more focused on branding, highlight skills like:

• Brand identity development
• Logo design
• Color theory

   Show your thought process

Art Directors are problem solvers, so hiring managers want to understand how you think. In your work experience, don't just list your responsibilities; explain your approach.

For the launch of a new product line, I conducted market research and created mood boards to develop a unique visual identity. I presented 3 different concepts to stakeholders and incorporated their feedback to refine the final direction.

This shows that you have a strategic process and can take feedback constructively.

   Demonstrate your industry knowledge

Hiring managers want Art Directors who stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. One way to show this is by including relevant coursework, certifications, or conferences you've attended.

• Completed a course on "Design Thinking" from IDEO U
• Earned a certification in "Digital Marketing" from Google
• Spoke on a panel about "The Future of Branding" at SXSW

You can also demonstrate your expertise in your work experience bullets:

• Implemented responsive design best practices to improve mobile conversions by 20%
• Developed brand guidelines based on the latest color theory research to evoke specific emotions

Writing Your Art Director Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. showcase your name and job title.

Your header should prominently feature your name, followed by your current or desired job title. This helps hiring managers quickly identify who you are and what role you're targeting.

Here's an example of a well-formatted header for an art director:

John Doe Art Director

Avoid cluttering your header with multiple job titles or irrelevant information, like this:

John Doe Art Director | Graphic Designer | Illustrator | Photographer 123 Main St, Anytown, USA 12345 [email protected] | 555-123-4567 | johndoe.com | linkedin.com/in/johndoe | Objective: Seeking a challenging art director position...

2. Include key contact details

In addition to your name and job title, your header should include essential contact details so hiring managers can easily reach you:

• Email address
• Phone number
• Location (City, State)
• LinkedIn profile URL
• Portfolio website URL

Example of a header with relevant contact info for an art director:

Jane Smith Art Director New York, NY | [email protected] | 555-987-6543 janesmith.com | linkedin.com/in/janesmith

Avoid including a full mailing address, multiple phone numbers, or personal social media profiles not relevant to your work as an art director.

3. Align your header with your personal brand

As an art director, your resume header is an opportunity to showcase your design aesthetic and personal brand. Consider using a clean, modern font and minimal design elements that align with your portfolio style.

However, avoid using:

• Overly decorative or hard-to-read fonts
• Distracting colors or graphics
• Headshots or logos

Instead, keep your header simple, professional, and let your portfolio speak for itself. A streamlined header like this can be effective:

SARAH JOHNSON ART DIRECTOR sarahjohnson.com | [email protected] | 555-555-1234 | New York, NY

  Summary

As an Art Director, your resume summary is an optional section that can help provide additional context and highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. While your resume itself should already be a concise summary of your qualifications, a well-crafted summary can be particularly useful if you're making a career change or have extensive experience in the field.

When writing your Art Director resume summary, focus on your unique value proposition and the specific skills and achievements that make you stand out from other candidates. Avoid using generic buzzwords or simply restating information that's already included elsewhere in your resume.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Art Director resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Art Director Resume Summary Examples , or Art Director Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your creative vision and leadership skills

As an Art Director, your ability to conceptualize and execute creative projects is crucial. Use your summary to showcase your creative vision and leadership skills, backed up by concrete examples.

• Visionary Art Director with a proven track record of leading cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, award-winning campaigns for top-tier clients in the fashion and beauty industry.
• Creative strategist and team leader, skilled at conceptualizing and executing engaging visual content across multiple platforms to drive brand awareness and sales.

Avoid generic statements that don't provide specific insights into your capabilities:

• Experienced Art Director with strong leadership skills and a passion for creativity.
• Hardworking professional with a proven track record of success.

2. Tailor your summary to the specific role and company

While it's essential to highlight your core strengths and experiences, make sure to tailor your summary to the specific Art Director role and company you're targeting. Research the company's culture, values, and current projects to identify key skills and experiences to emphasize.

Results-driven Art Director with 8+ years of experience in the tech industry, specializing in creating compelling visual narratives for SaaS products. Skilled at collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and execute data-driven creative strategies that align with business objectives and drive user engagement. Proven track record of leading successful rebrands and product launches for high-growth startups.

Avoid using a generic, one-size-fits-all summary that could apply to any Art Director role:

Experienced Art Director seeking a new opportunity to utilize my skills and creativity. Proven ability to lead teams and deliver successful projects on time and within budget.

3. Showcase your expertise in relevant tools and technologies

As an Art Director, you likely have expertise in a range of design tools and technologies. Use your summary to highlight your proficiency in the most relevant and in-demand tools for the role you're targeting.

• Expert in Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma, with a deep understanding of UI/UX design principles and best practices.
• Proficient in motion graphics and video editing using After Effects and Premiere Pro, with experience creating engaging social media content and brand videos.

However, avoid simply listing tools without context or overloading your summary with technical jargon:

• Skilled in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Sketch, Figma, After Effects, Premiere Pro, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more.
• Proficient in various design software and programming languages.

  Experience

The work experience section is the core of your resume as an art director. It's where you showcase your professional achievements, skills, and impact. Aim to strike a balance between providing enough detail to convey your contributions and being concise.

Let's break down the key steps to write an effective work experience section that will catch the attention of hiring managers and help you land your next art director role.

1. Highlight your creative leadership

As an art director, you play a pivotal role in guiding the creative vision and execution of projects. Emphasize experiences where you led creative teams, mentored junior designers, or collaborated cross-functionally to deliver results.

• Spearheaded a team of 12 designers to rebrand client's visual identity, resulting in a 30% increase in brand recognition
• Mentored and coached junior designers, resulting in 2 promotions to senior roles within 1 year

Quantify your leadership impact where possible. Did you lead larger teams over time? Did your team's work drive measurable results? Numbers help paint a concrete picture of your abilities.

Beyond your leadership, showcase your range as a creative. Highlight experiences across various mediums (digital, print) and industries to demonstrate your versatility.

2. Showcase your strategic thinking

While art directors need strong design chops, it's equally important to showcase your strategic, problem-solving side. Hiring managers look for art directors who can think beyond aesthetics to develop concepts that meet business objectives.

Highlight projects where you:

• Developed creative concepts that solved specific business problems
• Used data or research insights to inform the creative direction
• Collaborated with account teams to understand and execute on client goals

Partnered with UX researchers to develop new app onboarding flow, increasing completion rates by 25%

Connect the dots from strategy to execution for your reader. For example, "Developed creative concept rooted in audience insights to drive a 30% increase in social engagement."

3. Illustrate your creative process

Give hiring managers a window into how you approach projects and solve creative challenges. Illustrate your process with concrete examples.

• Led client discovery workshops to align on goals and inform the creative brief
• Developed 3 distinct creative directions and tested with target audience to validate final concept
• Partnered with creative team to ideate and prototype solutions, iterating based on client and user feedback

Avoid simply listing tasks or deliverables. Instead, weave them into a narrative that shows your thoughtful and collaborative approach.

Designed brand logos, marketing collateral and social media assets for client in the hospitality industry

Our Score My Resume tool can help ensure your resume effectively conveys your creative approach. It checks your resume against 30+ criteria hiring managers look for.

4. Demonstrate proficiency with industry tools

As an art director, you work with a variety of design tools to bring concepts to life and collaborate with your team. Subtly weave in your proficiency with industry-standard tools as you describe your work.

• Developed brand guidelines and design system in Adobe Creative Suite to ensure consistency across touchpoints
• Created interactive prototypes in Figma to test and validate design concepts with users

Focus on tools that are most relevant to the job you're applying for by studying the job description. Avoid simply listing tools in a skills section.

Optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS) by naturally incorporating relevant keywords. Our Targeted Resume tool scans your resume against a job description to ensure you have the right skills and keywords.

  Education

Your education section is a key part of your art director resume. It shows hiring managers that you have the necessary knowledge and training to excel in the role. In this section, we'll cover what to include and how to format your education for maximum impact.

1. List your degree(s) in reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent or highest degree first. For each degree, include:

• Name of the degree (e.g., Bachelor of Fine Arts)
• Major or concentration (e.g., Graphic Design)
• Name of the school
• Location of the school
• Graduation year

Here's an example:

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, RI 2018

2. Highlight relevant coursework

If you're a recent graduate or your coursework is particularly relevant to art direction, consider listing a few key courses under your degree. This can help demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential employers.

For example:

• Advanced Typography
• UI/UX Design
• Branding and Identity

However, avoid listing too many courses, as this can clutter your resume. Stick to 3-5 of the most relevant and impressive ones.

3. Include relevant certifications

If you have earned any certifications that are relevant to art direction, include them in your education section. This can help set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

Adobe Certified Expert in Photoshop 2020

However, avoid listing certifications that are not directly related to art direction or are outdated. Stick to ones that are current and showcase your relevant skills.

4. Keep it concise for senior-level positions

If you are a senior-level art director with many years of experience, your education section should be brief. Hiring managers will be more interested in your professional accomplishments than your degrees.

Here's an example of what to avoid:

Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art XYZ University, Anytown, USA Graduated: 1995 Relevant Coursework: Drawing I, Painting I, Sculpture I, Art History I, Art History II, Photography I, Photography II, Printmaking I, Printmaking II

Instead, keep it short and sweet:

B.A. in Fine Art, XYZ University

Action Verbs For Art Director Resumes

Action verbs are an effective way to illustrate your experience and responsibilities in your previous positions. Strong action verbs can help your previous experience easier to understand and can also highlight your successes to impress recruiters.

For an art director, your action verbs should speak to your various functions. E.g your experience as a leader, designer/creator, communicator, presenter, project manager, etc. Here are some action verbs to get you started.

• Collaborated
• Spearheaded

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Art Director Resumes

Skills for art director resumes.

Art directors need to be both incredibly skilled in design and also incredibly effective leaders. This requires natural artistic talent but also soft skills like communication skills, project management skills, and mentorship skills. When recruiters look at the skills section of your resume, however, they will expect to see a list of hard skills necessary for success as an art director. This will include the various tools you are acquainted with as well as the various artistic mediums you have experience with. 

This is an example of skills a recruiter would expect to see on your resume. Use this list as a starting point for your own personalized skills section.

• Graphic Design
• Art Direction
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Advertising
• Corporate Identity
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop
• Logo Design
• Concept Development
• Adobe InDesign
• Photography
• Creative Strategy
• Illustration
• Social Media
• Brand Development
• Social Media Marketing
• Branding & Identity
• Visual Communication
• Concept Art

Skills Word Cloud For Art Director Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Art Director job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Other design resumes.

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Art Director Resume Guide

• Design Director Resume Guide
• Art Director Resume Example
• Senior Art Director Resume Example
• Junior Art Director Resume Example
• Tips for Art Director Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• All Resume Examples
• Art Director CV Examples
• Art Director Cover Letter
• Art Director Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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3 Art Director Resume Examples to Land You a Role in 2023

Art Directors are creative problem solvers who bring ideas to life. As an Art Director, your resume should be just like a work of art. It should be visually appealing, creative, and unique. In this guide, we'll review X Art Director resume examples to help you create a masterpiece of your own.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Art Director Resumes:

• Develop creative concepts and designs for advertising campaigns, websites, and other marketing materials
• Create storyboards and visual presentations to communicate creative ideas to clients
• Collaborate with copywriters, photographers, and other creative professionals to develop effective campaigns
• Oversee the production of campaigns and ensure that all elements are consistent with the original concept
• Ensure that all projects are completed on time and within budget
• Monitor trends in design, advertising, and marketing to ensure that campaigns remain fresh and relevant
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients to ensure their satisfaction with the creative process
• Manage and mentor junior art directors and other creative staff
• Research and analyze competitors’ campaigns to ensure that client’s campaigns remain competitive
• Stay abreast of new technologies and techniques in design and production
• Participate in brainstorming sessions to generate new ideas and concepts

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Art Director Resume Example:

• Developed and executed a successful advertising campaign for a major client, resulting in a 25% increase in brand awareness and a 15% increase in sales.
• Collaborated with a team of designers and copywriters to create a visually stunning website for a new product launch, resulting in a 40% increase in website traffic and a 20% increase in conversions.
• Mentored and trained junior art directors, resulting in a 30% improvement in their design skills and a 10% increase in their productivity.
• Managed the production of a high-profile commercial for a major brand, ensuring that the final product was delivered on time and within budget, resulting in a 15% increase in brand recognition and a 10% increase in sales.
• Collaborated with a team of photographers and stylists to create a visually stunning print campaign, resulting in a 20% increase in engagement and a 10% increase in sales.
• Developed and maintained relationships with key clients, resulting in a 25% increase in repeat business and a 15% increase in overall revenue.
• Developed and executed a successful social media campaign for a major client, resulting in a 30% increase in engagement and a 20% increase in sales.
• Collaborated with a team of designers and copywriters to create a visually stunning branding campaign, resulting in a 40% increase in brand recognition and a 25% increase in sales.
• Creative direction
• Graphic design
• Brand development
• Advertising campaign management
• Website design
• Social media strategy
• Project management
• Team collaboration
• Photography and styling direction
• Client relationship management
• Mentoring and training
• Budget management
• Time management
• Adobe Creative Suite proficiency
• UX/UI design
• Print production
• Video production
• Copywriting collaboration
• Presentation skills
• Concept development

Senior Art Director Resume Example:

• Developed and executed a creative strategy for a major product launch, resulting in a 25% increase in sales and a 15% increase in brand awareness.
• Lead a team of designers and copywriters to create a new brand identity for a client, resulting in a 40% increase in website traffic and a 20% increase in social media engagement.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create a successful digital marketing campaign, resulting in a 30% increase in email open rates and a 10% increase in click-through rates.
• Managed the production of a high-profile advertising campaign, resulting in a 50% increase in brand recognition and a 20% increase in sales.
• Developed and implemented a new project management system, resulting in a 30% increase in team productivity and a 25% reduction in project delivery time.
• Mentored and trained junior designers, resulting in a 15% improvement in overall design quality and a 10% increase in client satisfaction scores.
• Collaborated with a team of developers to create a new website design, resulting in a 40% increase in website traffic and a 25% increase in online sales.
• Managed the production of a successful print advertising campaign, resulting in a 30% increase in brand recognition and a 15% increase in sales.
• Developed and executed a social media strategy, resulting in a 20% increase in social media followers and a 10% increase in engagement rates.
• Creative strategy development
• Brand identity creation
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Digital marketing campaign management
• Team leadership and mentoring
• Print advertising design
• Graphic design software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite)
• Typography and layout skills
• Concept development and visualization
• Presentation and communication skills
• Time management and prioritization
• Design trend awareness
• Analytical and problem-solving skills

Associate Art Director Resume Example:

• Developed and executed a creative concept for a product launch campaign that resulted in a 25% increase in sales and a 15% increase in brand awareness.
• Collaborated with the marketing team to design and produce digital assets for social media, resulting in a 30% increase in engagement and a 20% increase in followers.
• Mentored and managed a team of junior designers, resulting in a 10% increase in productivity and a 15% improvement in design quality.
• Created and maintained visual design standards for all projects, resulting in a 20% increase in design consistency and a 10% improvement in brand recognition.
• Developed and implemented strategies for improving design processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in project delivery time and a 20% increase in team efficiency.
• Managed relationships with external vendors, resulting in a 10% reduction in costs and a 5% improvement in vendor satisfaction.
• Designed and produced a series of presentations and storyboards for clients, resulting in a 30% increase in client satisfaction and a 20% increase in project success rate.
• Developed and maintained style guides and brand guidelines, resulting in a 25% increase in design consistency and a 15% improvement in brand recognition.
• Researched and stayed up-to-date on design trends and technologies, resulting in a 10% improvement in design quality and a 5% increase in team efficiency.
• Creative concept development
• Visual design standards
• Design process improvement
• Vendor relationship management
• Presentation and storyboard design
• Style guide and brand guideline creation
• Design trend research
• Team management and mentorship
• Digital asset design and production
• Client satisfaction and communication
• Project management and organization
• Collaboration with cross-functional teams
• Proficiency in design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, etc.)
• UX/UI design principles
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving and critical thinking

High Level Resume Tips for Art Directors:

Must-have information for a art director resume:.

Here are the essential sections that should exist in an Art Director resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other Art Director candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Art Directors:

Art director resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

• Creative Art Director with a Passion for Design and Visual Storytelling
• Innovative Art Director with a Proven Track Record of Success

Why these are strong:

• These headlines demonstrate the Art Director's creative and innovative qualities, as well as their passion for design and visual storytelling. Additionally, the second headline implies that the Art Director has a proven track record of success, which is sure to impress any hiring manager.

Weak Headlines

• Experienced Art Director
• Creative Art Director

Why these are weak:

• These headlines are too generic and don't provide any specific information about the Art Director's experience or skills. They don't stand out and don't give the reader any indication of what makes this Art Director unique.8

Writing an Exceptional Art Director Resume Summary:

Art director resume summary examples:, strong summaries.

• Award-winning Art Director with 10 years of experience in the advertising industry, specializing in creating visually stunning campaigns that drive brand awareness and engagement. Proficient in leading cross-functional teams and collaborating with clients to deliver exceptional results, resulting in a 30% increase in revenue for multiple clients.
• Creative and strategic Art Director with a passion for storytelling and a track record of developing successful campaigns across various mediums, including print, digital, and social media. Skilled in managing budgets and timelines, and adept at building strong relationships with clients, resulting in a 40% increase in repeat business.
• Versatile Art Director with 8 years of experience in the entertainment industry, excelling in both print and digital design. Proficient in leading teams and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget. Known for creating visually stunning designs that have been featured in multiple industry publications.
• These resume summaries are strong for Art Directors as they showcase the candidates' key strengths, accomplishments, and industry-specific experience. The first summary highlights the candidate's award-winning work and their ability to drive revenue for clients. The second summary showcases the candidate's creativity and strategic thinking, as well as their ability to build strong client relationships. Lastly, the third summary demonstrates the candidate's versatility and experience in both print and digital design, making them highly appealing to potential employers.

Weak Summaries

• Art Director with experience in creating visual concepts and collaborating with teams, seeking a new opportunity to contribute to the growth of a creative organization.
• Experienced Art Director skilled in various design software and techniques, with a background in different industries, looking to leverage my expertise to create impactful visual solutions for clients.
• Art Director with a focus on creating visually stunning designs that capture the essence of a brand, committed to delivering high-quality work that exceeds client expectations.
• These resume summaries need improvement for Art Directors as they lack specific examples of the candidate's accomplishments and unique value. The first summary provides only a general overview of the candidate's experience without mentioning any specific industries or design types. The second summary, though longer, still lacks concrete examples of design performance or company growth that resulted from the candidate's expertise in various design software and techniques. The third summary mentions creating visually stunning designs but doesn't provide any quantifiable results or details on the candidate's successes in capturing the essence of a brand, which would make their profile more compelling to potential employers.

Resume Objective Examples for Art Directors:

Strong objectives.

• Creative and detail-oriented Art Director seeking an entry-level position to apply my design skills and passion for visual storytelling to create compelling campaigns and elevate brand identity for a dynamic organization.
• Recent graduate with a degree in Graphic Design and experience in digital marketing, seeking an Art Director position to utilize my knowledge of design principles, typography, and color theory to develop innovative visual solutions that engage audiences and drive business results.
• Goal-driven and collaborative professional with a background in advertising and a strong portfolio of work, seeking an Art Director role to leverage my skills in concept development, art direction, and team management to deliver impactful campaigns and exceed client expectations.
• These resume objectives are strong for up and coming Art Directors because they showcase the candidates' creativity, education, and relevant skills, while also highlighting their eagerness to learn and contribute to the success of the organization. The first objective emphasizes the candidate's design skills and passion for visual storytelling, which are important attributes for an Art Director. The second objective showcases the candidate's educational background and experience in digital marketing, demonstrating a strong foundation for success in the role. Lastly, the third objective highlights the candidate's experience in advertising and team management, making them a promising fit for an Art Director position where they can further develop their skills and contribute to the company's growth.

Weak Objectives

• Seeking an Art Director position where I can utilize my creativity and design skills to produce visually stunning campaigns.
• Aspiring Art Director with some experience in graphic design, seeking to develop my career in the advertising industry.
• Recent graduate with a degree in Fine Arts, interested in an Art Director role to gain experience in managing creative teams.
• These resume objectives need improvement for up and coming Art Directors because they lack specificity and don't effectively showcase the unique value or skills the candidates possess. The first objective is generic and doesn't provide any information about the candidate's background, passion, or relevant experience. The second objective hints at some experience in graphic design, but it doesn't mention any specific achievements, education, or industries the candidate is interested in. The third objective, although it mentions a degree in Fine Arts, doesn't elaborate on the candidate's expertise, skills, or any particular area of art direction they are passionate about, which would make their profile more appealing to potential employers.

Generate Your Resume Summary with AI

Speed up your resume creation process with the ai resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your art director work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Showcase your ability to lead and manage a team of designers and creatives, highlighting any successful projects or campaigns you oversaw.
• Emphasize your experience in developing and executing creative concepts across various mediums, such as print, digital, and social media.
• Demonstrate your understanding of design principles and how you have applied them to create visually stunning and effective campaigns.
• Highlight any experience working with clients or stakeholders, showcasing your ability to understand and meet their needs while still maintaining your creative vision.
• Showcase your ability to work within a budget and meet deadlines, highlighting any successful projects completed under tight constraints.
• Mention any awards, recognition, or unique accomplishments associated with your work as an Art Director.
• Provide examples of how you have collaborated with other departments, such as marketing or sales, to create cohesive and effective campaigns.
• Lastly, ensure that the language you use is clear and concise, avoiding industry jargon and focusing on the impact of your work.

Example Work Experiences for Art Directors:

Strong experiences.

Conceptualized and executed a national print campaign for a major fashion brand, resulting in a 25% increase in sales and a 10% increase in brand awareness.

Led a team of designers and copywriters to develop a new brand identity and website for a startup, resulting in a 50% increase in website traffic and a successful launch.

Collaborated with a team of animators and developers to create an interactive digital experience for a museum exhibit, resulting in a 90% visitor satisfaction rate.

Oversaw the creative process for a major product packaging redesign, resulting in a 30% increase in shelf appeal and a 20% boost in sales.

Managed the development of an engaging social media content strategy for a global non-profit organization, leading to a 45% growth in followers and a 35% increase in engagement rates.

Led a multi-disciplinary team in the creation of a high-impact experiential marketing event, generating widespread media coverage and attracting over 10,000 attendees, significantly boosting brand recognition.

• These work experiences are strong because they showcase the candidate's ability to lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams, as well as their creativity and strategic thinking. The quantifiable results demonstrate the candidate's impact on business outcomes, while the diverse range of projects highlights their versatility as an Art Director.

Weak Experiences

Led the design team in creating marketing materials for a new product launch.

Collaborated with copywriters and marketing managers to ensure brand consistency and messaging.

Presented design concepts to stakeholders and incorporated feedback into final deliverables.

Managed the production of a print ad campaign for a fashion brand.

Coordinated with photographers, stylists, and models to execute the creative vision.

Oversaw the post-production process, ensuring final deliverables were on-brand and met client expectations.

• These work experiences are weak because they lack specific details about the impact of the individual's work and the benefits brought to the company. They provide generic descriptions of tasks performed without showcasing the candidate's leadership qualities or direct contributions to successful outcomes. To improve these bullet points, the candidate should focus on incorporating metrics to highlight their achievements, using more powerful action verbs, and providing clear context that demonstrates their ability to drive results and exceed expectations.

Top Skills & Keywords for Art Director Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for art directors, hard skills.

• Graphic Design Software (Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, etc.)
• Layout Design
• Branding and Identity Design
• Art Direction and Concept Development
• Print and Digital Production
• Photography and Video Production
• Web Design and Development
• User Experience (UX) Design
• User Interface (UI) Design
• Project Management
• Budget Management

Soft Skills

• Leadership and Team Management
• Communication and Presentation Skills
• Collaboration and Cross-Functional Coordination
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Attention to Detail and Quality Control
• Creativity and Innovation
• Active Listening and Feedback Incorporation
• Emotional Intelligence and Relationship Building
• Visual Design and Aesthetics
• Branding and Marketing Knowledge

Go Above & Beyond with a Art Director Cover Letter

Art director cover letter example: (based on resume).

Dear Hiring Manager at Company Name,

I am excited to apply for the Art Director position at your company. With my extensive experience in developing and executing successful advertising campaigns, collaborating with teams of designers and copywriters, and mentoring junior art directors, I am confident that I would be an excellent addition to your team.

In my most recent role, I developed and executed a successful advertising campaign for a major client, resulting in a 25% increase in brand awareness and a 15% increase in sales. I also collaborated with a team of designers and copywriters to create a visually stunning website for a new product launch, resulting in a 40% increase in website traffic and a 20% increase in conversions. Additionally, I mentored and trained junior art directors, resulting in a 30% improvement in their design skills and a 10% increase in their productivity.

In my previous roles, I managed the production of a high-profile commercial for a major brand, collaborated with a team of photographers and stylists to create a visually stunning print campaign, and developed and maintained relationships with key clients, resulting in significant increases in brand recognition, engagement, and sales.

I am passionate about creating visually stunning and effective advertising campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive results. I am also committed to mentoring and training junior art directors to help them develop their skills and reach their full potential.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

[Your Name]

As an Art Director, you understand the importance of visual storytelling and creating a strong brand identity. Just like your portfolio showcases your creative skills, a well-crafted cover letter can showcase your communication and storytelling abilities. Pairing your resume with a tailored cover letter can give you a crucial edge over the competition and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. A cover letter is an extension of your resume, an opportunity to delve deeper into your relevant experience and showcase your passion for the role. Contrary to common belief, crafting a compelling cover letter doesn't have to be an arduous task, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required.

Here are some compelling reasons for submitting a cover letter as an Art Director:

• Personalize your application and showcase your genuine interest in the company and role, while also demonstrating your creativity and design skills.
• Illustrate your unique value proposition and how your artistic skills align with the specific job requirements, while also showcasing your ability to think outside the box.
• Communicate your understanding of the company's brand identity and how you plan to contribute to it, while also showcasing your ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Share success stories and achievements that couldn't be accommodated in your resume, while also showcasing your ability to problem-solve and think strategically.
• Demonstrate your writing and communication skills, which are essential for Art Directors, while also showcasing your ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner.
• Differentiate yourself from other applicants who might have opted not to submit a cover letter, while also showcasing your attention to detail and commitment to going above and beyond.

Resume FAQs for Art Directors:

How long should i make my art director resume.

An Art Director's resume should ideally be one to two pages long. The length of the resume depends on the individual's experience, skills, and accomplishments in the field. A one-page resume is suitable for those with less experience or who are just starting out in their career. This format allows you to showcase your most relevant skills, education, and a few key accomplishments that demonstrate your potential as an Art Director. For more experienced Art Directors, a two-page resume is appropriate. This allows you to provide a more comprehensive overview of your work history, including a greater number of projects, accomplishments, and skills. It also provides space to include any relevant awards, publications, or professional affiliations. Regardless of the length, it is crucial to keep the resume concise, well-organized, and tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Focus on showcasing your most relevant and impressive achievements, and avoid including

What is the best way to format a Art Director resume?

The best way to format an Art Director resume is to focus on showcasing your creative skills, professional experience, and relevant education in a clean, organized, and visually appealing manner. Here are some key elements to consider when formatting your Art Director resume: 1. Choose a clean and professional layout: Use a simple, easy-to-read font and avoid cluttered designs. Make sure there is enough white space to make the resume easy to skim through. You can use subtle design elements, such as color accents or icons, to make your resume stand out without being overwhelming. 2. Start with a strong summary or objective: Begin your resume with a brief statement that highlights your most relevant skills, experience, and career goals. This will give the hiring manager a quick overview of your qualifications and help them decide if they want to read further. 3. Showcase your creative work: As an Art Director, your portfolio is

Which Art Director skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

As an AI language model, I do not have personal experience or opinions, but I can provide a general response based on industry standards and job requirements. When highlighting skills on a resume for an Art Director position, it is important to focus on both technical and creative abilities. Technical skills may include proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, knowledge of typography and layout, and experience with web design and coding. Creative skills may include the ability to conceptualize and execute visual ideas, strong communication and collaboration skills, and a keen eye for detail. Additionally, Art Directors should highlight their leadership and management skills, as they are often responsible for overseeing a team of designers and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. They should also emphasize their ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, as well as their flexibility and adaptability to changing project requirements. Overall, a strong Art Director resume should showcase a combination of technical and creative skills, leadership and management abilities, and a track record of successful project execution.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Art Director?

If you have no experience as an Art Director, it is important to focus on highlighting your skills and qualifications that are relevant to the position. Here are some tips for writing a resume as an aspiring Art Director with no experience: 1. Start with a strong objective statement: Your objective statement should clearly state your career goals and how you plan to achieve them. This will help the hiring manager understand your motivation and passion for the role. 2. Highlight your education: If you have a degree in a related field such as graphic design, visual arts, or advertising, make sure to highlight it prominently on your resume. Include any relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and knowledge. 3. Showcase your skills: As an aspiring Art Director, you may not have direct experience in the role, but you likely have skills that are transferable. Highlight your skills in areas such as design, typography, layout, and color theory. Use specific examples to demonstrate your proficiency in these

Compare Your Art Director Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Art Director job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Art Directors:

Art director resume example, senior art director resume example, associate art director resume example, more resume guidance:.

Art Director Resume Samples

Any jobseeker interested in an art director position needs to know what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for in a candidate’s resume. Art director resume samples are a great way to learn this and be able to show that you are well-familiar with the work process. 

Whether you are a newbie in the industry or a seasoned art direction professional, check out our tips on how to format your resume and what to write in resume summary and objective as well as in the experience, education, skills, and “other” sections.

How to Format an Art Director Resume

An art director resume is only the first step of the job application process. All it has to do is get you an interview for the position you want. So be concise. The layout does not matter much, but in most cases, it is better to stick to the classics. 

As you will see in the resume sample below, the sections you are supposed to include are resume summary or objective, experience, education, skills, and “other.” Write in bullet points and try not to go over one or two pages.

Art Director Resume [Sample]

We have worked with tons of art director resumes for various art director positions. We know exactly what achievements and experience to highlight to convince the person looking at your resume that you fit the job requirements and they should hire you. Here is one of the good resume examples to follow.

Contact Information

Candidate’s name, email, address (optional), phone number

To obtain a middle-level Art Director position in an advertising agency specializing in B2C consumer goods and services. Would appreciate an opportunity to work for an industry leader akin to The O Group.

Work Experience

Studio B Films , San Francisco, CA

Set Designer, 2016-2018

• Designed sets for TV commercials and music videos
• Managed set execution
• Successfully worked on 50+ projects

Assistant Art Director, 2018-2020

• Assisted in developing concepts for the assigned video projects (commercials and music videos)
• Directed teams of videographers and set designers
• Facilitates meeting with potential and current clients

Digital Silk , New York, NY

Art Director, 2020-2022

• Developed the concepts for 30+ advertising campaigns
• Successfully managed all aspects of 30+ advertising campaigns and oversaw their completion
• Supervised a team of 10+ design professionals working

BFA in Art Direction

The American Academy of Art , 2014-2016

Gained expertise in design thinking, advertising, and creative project management.

• Team management
• Creative project management
• Illustration and photography concept development
• Portuguese—fluent
• Passionate photographer and videographer

We encourage you to explore the following resume examples developed using our:

• it resume writing service
• resume editing service
• cv writing service
• LinkedIn profile writing service

We’ve developed them for dozens of professions in all kinds of industries: from customer service to engineering. And we will keep updating the list each week with new professions/examples.

Resume Objective & Resume Summary

Some job seekers use an art director resume objective and summary interchangeably, but they are not actually the same thing. Sure, the ultimate goal is to get the candidate to the job interview, but the functions of the two are different.

A resume objective highlights what the job seeker wants to get career-wise and typically includes a statement along the lines of “getting an entry-level position in art design.” A resume objective summarizes the entire resume and includes the candidate’s accomplishments and training.

Resume Summary [Examples]

• Outstanding artistic and supervision skills with extensive experience as an art director.Such a summary from a resume art director is vague and will not get one any advantage in the job market. Job seekers who actually want to get work should model their summary section after the following resume sample.
• Art director with 5+ years of experience at a top-10 advertising agency. Has successfully led 20+ advertisement campaigns for consumer goods, B2C services, and social projects.

Resume Objective [Examples]

• To advance the career in art direction.This statement is too generic and says nothing. It does not highlight either the job duties the candidate expects to perform or the responsibilities they are proficient at. Instead, experts who create art resume samples recommend following this objective from a resume example
• To obtain an entry-level position as an art director in an advertising agency focused on B2C goods and services

Resume Examples [Experience]

When you are considering what to include in the experience section, follow our art director resume sample. Think of your past duties and tasks you performed and decide which of them make you look good. Try to answer the question of “How to be a good art director?” and make sure that your experience section reflects the answer.

Not everything you include should necessarily be about art direction. It is totally fine to feature your experience in business management and graphic design as well. What matters is that everything your experience section includes has to be relevant for the position you are applying for.

Entry Level Art Director Resume [Experience]

If you are applying for one of the entry level art director jobs, not having much (or even any) professional experience is not a big deal. Entry-level jobs are called this way for a reason: you are expected to have relevant training but not necessarily work experience.

However, never leave the experience section empty. Include anything art direction-related you have completed, such as workshops and internships. Show that you know what the responsibilities of an art director are and how to perform them. 

Entry Level Art Director [Sample]

If you are an entry-level job seeker, most recruiters and hiring managers will show acceptance even if your junior art director resume is far from perfect. Still, try to make your experience sections as competent-looking as you can.

• Used to be a solutions manager
• Completed an art design course
• Have no work experience in creative positions so far
• Background in graphic design at an advertising agency
• Completed an A+ final project at Kingston University London
• Successfully interned at Kohl’s marketing department

Education Section: What to Include in It

Education is what all recruits and hiring managers look at, even more so if the candidate has not had much work experience yet. Their thought process is as follows: “This candidate clearly lacks experience, but their educational background is impressive. They are guaranteed to know at least something about the job requirements.”

But do not stress over the creation of the education section of your artistic director resume. Look at the suggestions we prepared in the next section—and you’ll be just fine.

Art Director Resume Examples [Education]

Once again, consider what makes a good art director and compose your education section accordingly.

Creative and Cultural Industries: Design Marketing BA (Hons)

Kingston University London, 2018-2021

• This example is okay but it lacks details. It does not communicate that the candidate has the right skills to build a successful career in art direction, is growth oriented, and is good enough to join basically any account team.
• Gained expertise in design thinking, marketing, and creative project management.

Skills on a Resume for an Art Director

As much as education and experience matter, art director skills are what a hiring manager is interested in the most. Art direction is a career field where one’s responsibilities and, therefore, job requirements depend on a particular project or company. For example, one company might be looking for a candidate with experience as an illustrator while another will prioritize communication skills. So all resumes art director sends should be tailored to the specific position they are applying for.

Some of the skills that art directors are typically expected to have include:

• Graphic design
• Visual marketing
• Marketing Design

(as well as industry-specific skills, such as set design for a television production art director or basics of museum curatorship for an art director at a gallery)

Art Director Resume Examples [Skills]

As discussed, the skills a recruiter might be looking for in individuals willing to obtain a position in art direction depend on the company and the expected occupations. What works for one job posting might not work for another. Still, there is such a thing as the right or wrong art director skills resume section.

• Project management
• Graphic design and illustration
• Graphic design software

What Helps Your Resume Stand Out

If you want your dream company to recruit you (or at least invite you for a job interview), listing your education, work experience, and skills is not enough. The best art directors also include statements about their additional competencies that make them stand out.

There is no place for the “one size fits all” approach when it comes to deciding what to include. But the things to consider are language proficiency and any competencies that might be helpful in the position you are applying for. Model the “other” section after our resume art direction examples.

Art Director Resume Examples [Other Sections]

Whether you have a senior art director resume or an entry-level one, keep in mind what the work you want to get implies. If it is active listening, include it. If it is the ability to scan the room and “read” the people in it, say so (unless it is something you are actually bad at). Featuring your interests is a good idea too as long as they have something to do with the position.

• A true gym rat
• A proud dog owner
• Interested in public opinion research
• Fluent in German and Spanish
• Exceptional at written communication

What to Include in Your Art Director Resume

If you follow our sample art director resume and guidelines, a recruiter will most definitely invite you to an interview. Hopefully, you will get the job you want in no time. Just remember to be concise yet specific.

Still, if in doubt, contact us—and our experts will prepare a custom resume for you that will give you a huge advantage in your job search. Professional help is worth more than even the best art direction example of a resume.

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Artistic Director resume examples for 2024

A successful artistic director resume highlights skills in artistic direction, community outreach, and public speaking. For instance, one of the examples shows an artist director leading a strategic mission for a dance studio, managing up to 120 clients and 15 staff. Another example shows an artistic director assisting with audience development, branding, and promotions. They designed press releases, followed up with local media, and initiated collaboration with other art and theater groups.

Artistic Director resume example

How to format your artistic director resume:.

• Use the exact job title 'Artistic Director' in your resume to match your application
• Highlight accomplishments rather than duties in your work experience as an Artistic Director
• Aim to fit your Artistic Director resume on one page, focusing on relevance and impact

Choose from 10+ customizable artistic director resume templates

Choose from a variety of easy-to-use artistic director resume templates and get expert advice from Zippia’s AI resume writer along the way. Using pre-approved templates, you can rest assured that the structure and format of your artistic director resume is top notch. Choose a template with the colors, fonts & text sizes that are appropriate for your industry.

Artistic Director resume format and sections

1. add contact information to your artistic director resume.

Artistic Director Resume Contact Information Example # 1

Dhruv Johnson

[email protected] | 333-111-2222 | www.linkedin.com/in/dhruv-johnson

2. Add relevant education to your artistic director resume

Your resume's education section should include:

• The name of your school
• The date you graduated ( Month, Year or Year are both appropriate)
• The name of your degree

If you graduated more than 15 years ago, you should consider dropping your graduation date to avoid age discrimination.

Optional subsections for your education section include:

• Academic awards (Dean's List, Latin honors, etc. )
• GPA (if you're a recent graduate and your GPA was 3.5+)
• Extra certifications
• Academic projects (thesis, dissertation, etc. )

Other tips to consider when writing your education section include:

• If you're a recent graduate, you might opt to place your education section above your experience section
• The more work experience you get, the shorter your education section should be
• List your education in reverse chronological order, with your most recent and high-ranking degrees first
• If you haven't graduated yet, you can include "Expected graduation date" to the entry for that school

Check More About Artistic Director Education

Artistic Director Resume Relevant Education Example # 1

Bachelor's Degree In Music 1991 - 1994

University of Denver Denver, CO

Artistic Director Resume Relevant Education Example # 2

Bachelor's Degree In Theatre 1993 - 1996

University of California - Davis Davis, CA

3. Next, create an artistic director skills section on your resume

Your resume's skills section should include the most important keywords from the job description, as long as you actually have those skills. If you haven't started your job search yet, you can look over resumes to get an idea of what skills are the most important.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your resume's skills section:

• Include 6-12 skills, in bullet point form
• List mostly hard skills ; soft skills are hard to test
• Emphasize the skills that are most important for the job

Hard skills are generally more important to hiring managers because they relate to on-the-job knowledge and specific experience with a certain technology or process.

Soft skills are also valuable, as they're highly transferable and make you a great person to work alongside, but they're impossible to prove on a resume.

Example of skills to include on an artistic director resume

A non-profit organization (NPO) is a business that has been granted tax-exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) because it serves a social cause and provides a benefit to the public. The organization must serve a social cause whether it is through services, goods, or both.

Public Speaking or oration, as it is sometimes known, is the act of any one person speaking live in front of an audience. Although in the past the audience was only a physical one, nowadays oration might be done on an online video call, at a digital conference, at an online class, or elsewhere. The art of public speaking is very old, drawing its first established roots from Ancient Greece and likely from before, too. It is an important skill and asset in many industries.

Ticket sale is the selling of the rights to be a part of a sports event or show. The ticket sale grants each buyer access to the show or event and leaves everyone who isn't buying out of the show. It can also be referred to as the sums of money generated from the sale of tickets for an event or sports show. Over the years, laws have been enacted to prohibit the resale of tickets by unauthorized sellers.

Graphic design is the art of making visual content to communicate messages. Designers apply different page layout methods and visual hierarchy by using letters and pictures to meet the need of end-users. Most companies use graphic design to sell their product or services and to convey complicated information by using infographics.

Top Skills for an Artistic Director

• Artistic Vision , 21.3%
• Community Outreach , 12.3%
• Non-Profit Organization , 8.2%
• Press Releases , 6.1%
• Other Skills , 52.1%

4. List your artistic director experience

The most important part of any resume for an artistic director is the experience section. Recruiters and hiring managers expect to see your experience listed in reverse chronological order, meaning that you should begin with your most recent experience and then work backwards.

Don't just list your job duties below each job entry. Instead, make sure most of your bullet points discuss impressive achievements from your past positions. Whenever you can, use numbers to contextualize your accomplishments for the hiring manager reading your resume.

It's okay if you can't include exact percentages or dollar figures. There's a big difference even between saying "Managed a team of artistic directors" and "Managed a team of 6 artistic directors over a 9-month project. "

Most importantly, make sure that the experience you include is relevant to the job you're applying for. Use the job description to ensure that each bullet point on your resume is appropriate and helpful.

• Forwarded correspondence to corporate office via overnight mail (FedEx).
• Revised departmental standard operating procedures and database to accurately reflect the current practices.
• Managed a female residential drug and alcohol treatment program and transitional living facility for a non-profit organization.
• Prepared and assisted with PowerPoint Presentations for corporate clients.
• Served as secretary to the Foundation and Alumni Association board and their committees.
• Designed and presented a PowerPoint slide show to introduce customers to digital photography, thereby enhancing photo department sales.
• Supervised a total of 2 Co-Managers, 7 Assistant Managers and 275 Associates.
• Led team of 3 to move apparel departments to POS replenishment system for direct import programs.
• Completed module resets throughout the store and was sent to other stores to help with store remodels and inventory counting.
• Trained other supervisors and managers to operate and troubleshoot new Global Logistics System.
• Developed a new layout for the 60 stations using Lean tools and AutoCAD, improving productivity by 10.4%
• Certified in PPE, Medication Administration, CPR, First Aid, Dietary Needs and Fire Safety and Choking.
• Reviewed payroll and addressed discrepancies.
• Hosted and taught CPR and First Responder classes for area organizations.
• Saved $21,000 a year by changing method of which supervisors check employees in and out of shift.
• Led team of IT professionals including developers, business analysts and QA analysts along with outsourced technical resource.
• Supervised younger game technicians on troubleshooting techniques, and maintenance of store equipment
• Tested, applied troubleshooting and repair all defective electronic and mechanical equipment.
• Maintained architecture design, specifications, and operations guidelines.
• Involved in SQL server database engineering tasks.

5. Highlight artistic director certifications on your resume

Specific artistic director certifications can be a powerful tool to show employers you've developed the appropriate skills.

If you have any of these certifications, make sure to put them on your artistic director resume:

• Art Therapy Certified Supervisor (ATCS)

6. Finally, add an artistic director resume summary or objective statement

A resume summary statement consists of 1-3 sentences at the top of your artistic director resume that quickly summarizes who you are and what you have to offer. The summary statement should include your job title, years of experience (if it's 3+), and an impressive accomplishment, if you have space for it.

Remember to emphasize skills and experiences that feature in the job description.

Common artistic director resume skills

• Artistic Vision
• Community Outreach
• Non-Profit Organization
• Press Releases
• Public Speaking
• Costume Design
• Ticket Sales
• Photography
• Event Planning
• Graphic Design
• Audience Development
• Fund Raising
• Artistic Direction
• Arts Organization
• Promotional Materials
• Photo Shoots
• Performance Venues
• Production Budgets
• Dance Studio
• Outreach Program
• Dance Classes
• Production Schedules
• Shakespeare
• Community Events
• Rehearsal Schedules
• Stage Management
• Contract Negotiations
• Local Businesses
• Promotional Events
• Community Theatre

Artistic Director Jobs

Links to help optimize your artistic director resume.

• How To Write A Resume
• List Of Skills For Your Resume
• How To Write A Resume Summary Statement
• Action Words For Your Resume
• How To List References On Your Resume

Updated March 14, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Art Director Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

Crafting the perfect art director resume involves sprinkling in the right blend of creativity and professionalism. This guide aims to turn that vision into reality, offering you top-notch tips, real-life examples, and dynamic templates.

The art director's work lives behind every album cover, TV ad, product packaging, or theater poster. Just as each project is distinct, so should your resume be, emphasizing your unique career journey. Nevertheless, no art director resume should be without some essential sections. Let's carve them out.

Keep on reading and learn all about:

• Formatting your art director resume
• Crafting an enticing resume summary or objective 
• Highlighting the most desirable art director skills 
• Detailing significant work experience and key art projects 
• Properly listing education in your art director resume
• Including relevant extra sections in your art director resume 
• Steering clear of common resume mistakes
• Understanding the crucial difference between a resume and a cover letter
• Learning about the average salary and job outlook for art directors
• Discovering top resources for job-seeking product designers

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

1. How to properly format your art director resume

Selecting the right format can make your art director resume easy to read and engaging. Here are three main types of resume formats and when to use each:

• Chronological format :  Choose this when your work history is consistent, showing clear progression in your art direction career. It starts with your most recent job position and works backward, spotlighting your career history.
• Functional format :  This one is your go-to if your skills and qualifications outshine your work experience or if there are gaps in your employment history. It focuses on your skills, abilities, and achievements.
• Combination format:  Pure gold for seasoned art directors with wide-ranging skills and a hefty portfolio. This format blends the chronological and functional formats, giving equal weight to skills and experience.

Here are some golden rules that will help you impeccably format your art director resume:

• Use white space for readability and navigation.
• If you opt to use color or graphic elements, make them subtle, so that they do not distract from the content.
• Use a professional font between 10-12 points.
• Save your resume as a PDF document unless the job ad states differently. 

Remember, the purpose of your resume format is to present your career story effectively and coherently. Clinch the one that aligns with your career path and goals.

Try our AI Resume Writer and have your resume ready in minutes!

2. how to craft a compelling art director resume summary or objective.

Just as a film needs a teaser that captivates the attention of viewers, your art director resume needs a compelling professional profile .

Both a resume summary and an objective can help map out your art direction career and goals to the hiring manager. 

• Resume summary  is ideal for seasoned art directors who want to highlight their vast experience, unique skills sets, and significant achievements. By summarizing your career's key highlights, you can show you're the undisputed choice for prospective employers.

Bad example of an art director resume summary

I'm an art director who has previously worked on various projects.

Why is it ineffective? This resume summary is vague and lacks specificity. It doesn't show unique achievements or quantify your experience.

Good example of an art director resume summary

Art Director with seven years’ experience leading branding campaigns for high-profile clients. Known for fostering creative collaboration while delivering superior design solutions.

Why does it work? The correct example quantifies experience, highlights strategic skills, and underscores a proven track record of successful campaigns. It showcases what the applicant can bring to the table.

• Resume objective:  This is recommended for those who are either fresh graduates, getting into the field of art direction, or those making a career switch. It's a statement of your career ideals paired with your skills, reflecting why you'd be an excellent fit even if you lack direct experience.

Bad example of a resume objective

Looking to get a job as an art director.

Why is it weak?  This objective doesn't show what you bring to the employer. It only states what you want, which surely doesn't provide value to the company.

Good example of a resume objective

Highly creative and passionate recent Fine Arts graduate seeking an entry-level Art Director role. Solid understanding of design principles and keen learner with proven adaptability.

Why is it effective? The correct example presents career ambitions clearly, emphasizes relevant training and skills, and indicates the potential for adaptability and growth within the role. It clearly states what the candidate can offer the company.     Choose the tool that best fits your stage in the art direction career, and remember that both serve to hook the hiring manager's interest.

3. How to choose the best skills for your art director resume

As an art director, you supervise all graphics production activities, develop print specifications and deliver creative solutions. 

This clearly indicates your expertise in design software, and that is when listing hard skills in your resume comes in handy. 

Best hard skills for an art director resume

• Adobe Suite: InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop
• Print design
• Photography
• HTML & CSS
• Drawing and painting
• Project management

Not only is your role defined by your software expertise, but you may as well be best characterized by your soft skills such as  creative vision and persuasion . You motivate your team to be original and innovative in order to meet your client’s expectations. 

Best soft skills for an art director resume

• Strategic and critical thinking
• Communication
• Active listening
• Problem solving
• Taking criticism
• Time management

Check out for more of the best soft and hard skills to put on your resume in 2021.

Find out your resume score!

4. How to make your art director work experience resume section shine

Professional experience is undoubtedly one of the most crucial resume sections. Besides allowing space for listing your past roles, it most importantly reveals your capabilities and achievements in given positions.

Start with your most recent role, and mention your most significant accomplishments. Are they measurable? Even better! Quantifying your achievements gives recruiters a better sense of your contribution. Remember to target each work experience to the job you are applying for.

Bad art director job description example

Markem Designs Lear Art Director 2015–2018

• Worked on product concepts.
• Led the design team.
• Improved client sales.

What's the issue? This example is vague and unimpressive. It lacks specifics, quantification of achievements, and fails to depict the impact created.

Art director job description example

• Skillfully Developed 25+ concepts for products in partnership with the communication and account teams.
• Spearheaded the team of 7 designers and production staff to ensure the desired results.
• Increased client’s sales by 24% in a 3-month period.
• Enhanced art department and organization reputation.

Why does it work? This example gives recruiters quantifiable facts, shows the impact you've made in your roles, and makes solid claims about improving sales and enhancing the organization's reputation.

Pro tip: Dress your work experience with specifics. Numbers, percentages, and concrete results turn your past roles into a compelling narrative of your professional journey. Remember, recruiters love measurable proof!

5. Make your art director resume education section stand out

An art director would typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in a design or art subject. Mentioning your academic achievements turns out to be useful especially if you lack work experience in the field.

Art director education section example

University of Europe BA in Graphic Design 2010–2013

• Excelled in Publication and Packaging Design
• Winner, Student Advertising Competition 2013
• Area of interest: Marketing & Advertising Graphic Design

6. How to complement your art director resume with extra sections

You know when and where to best invest your energy, and how to most effectively get the job done. Pick the most suitable extra sections to complement your art director resume, depending on your preference and accomplishments in each:

• Certifications:  These provide a stamp of validation to your skills, enhancing your art director resume. 
• Awards:  Achievements like these reveal your recognized talent and distinguish you from the crowd. 
• Volunteering Activities:  Volunteering shows your initiative, dedication, and broader community involvement, which paints an appealing picture of you beyond your professional capabilities.
• Language Skills:  Proficiency in multiple languages can open up opportunities in a diverse, global industry like art direction. It demonstrates your ability to work effectively in multilingual settings or with international teams.
• Interests: Interests showcase your passion and personal investment in the art field. It not only portrays you as a proactive learner but also as someone who could bring new perspectives drawn from different artistic mediums.

Here's an example of how to list extra sections in your art director resume

Certifications

• Adobe Certified Expert (ACE), Adobe Systems, 2018
• Certified Graphic Designer, Graphic Artists Guild, 2019
• Winner, American Art Awards, 2019
• Recipient, ADC Annual Awards for Art Direction, 2020

Volunteering Activities:

• Volunteer Art Mentor, Art for Kids, 2016-2018
• Community Art Director, Local Mural Project, 2019

Language Skills

• Fluent in English, Spanish and French
• Abstract painting
• Art exhibitions

Opt for these sections to enrich your art director resume, showcasing not just your professional talents but also your commitment to continuous learning, excellence, and community engagement.

7. How to avoid common mistakes in an art director resume

An art director's resume can trip up if common mistakes aren't avoided. Here's a checklist to ensure you're not tripped up:

• Errors in spelling and grammar:  A single typo can cause your resume to stumble. Suspect every line, double-check everything. Lean on grammar and spell-check tools. Better still, get a second pair of eyes to review your resume.
• Generic descriptions:  Engage recruiters with specifics. What tasks were you responsible for? Did you lead teams? How large? Did you meet/exceed targets? By how much?
• Ignoring ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems):  Many hiring processes now deploy ATS — a software system that screens and ranks resumes. Make it ATS-friendly using relevant keywords from the job description and avoiding fancy formatting.
• Omitting important information: Don't skimp on the details. Your contact information, qualifications, work history, skills — all crucial information that should be crystal clear on your resume. 
• Forgetting customization:  A generic 'one-size-fits-all' resume is forgettable. Map each resume to the specific art director role you're applying for. 

Keep these pitfalls in mind as you craft your art director resume. Let your narrative unfold error-free, specifically tailored, ATS-friendlily, and omitting nothing crucial.

8. How to pair your art director resume with a relevant cover letter

Alongside your art director resume, a well-composed cover letter adds depth to your application. It offers a narrative opportunity to connect your experience and skills directly to the job's requirements. Don't forget to include it, especially when the job posting specifically requests one.

While the resume is like a factual snapshot — clear, concise, specific — the cover letter is a persuasive portrait. It weaves your skills, experience, and achievements into a compelling story that aligns with the job requirement.

Art director cover letter introduces you and expresses your interest in the role. Explains why you're the perfect candidate by drawing unique connections between the job requirements and your specific experiences and accomplishments. 

In essence, your resume answers "what have you done" while your cover letter answers "why you're the perfect fit for the role". Always pair your art director resume with a tailored cover letter to provide the comprehensive picture of you as a candidate.

9. Average salary and job outlook for art directors

Being an art director is not just creatively rewarding, but also offers competitive financial compensation. As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for art directors was $105,180 as of May 2022.

But that's not all. The field itself is on a promising growth path. Employment of art directors is projected to grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, outpacing the average growth rate for all occupations. 

This progression in the field opens up ample opportunities annually. Precisely, about 13,800 openings for art directors are projected each year over the decade. 

So, if your dream is framed in the art director's canvas, both the salary and job outlook promise a pretty encouraging picture. Keep honing your skills, crafting compelling resumes, and be ready to grab the opportunities as they come.

10. Best resources for job-seeking art directors

Navigating the art direction job market can be a tad challenging. But knowing where to look and how to hone your skills gives you an edge. Here are some resources to keep in your toolbox:

• Job boards:  Some sites cater specifically to creative industries. Look into job boards like Behance , Krop , and Creative Hotlist . Indeed , Glassdoor and LinkedIn are also gold-mines with numerous art director listings.
• Networking events:  Events like graphic design or art director summits and networking nights offer the opportunity to meet industry leaders and potential employers. Check out Meetup , Eventbrite , or industry-specific associations for events.
• Online courses and webinars:  Hone your skills and keep up-to-date with industry trends. Websites like Coursera, Udemy , LinkedIn Learning , and Skillshare offer a plethora of courses covering different facets of art direction.
• Industry publications:  Stay informed about the industry, emerging trends, and insights. Read publications like AdAge , Print Magazine , and Communication Arts .
• Social media:  Follow influential art directors, design firms, and industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn , Instagram , and X . This both keeps you updated on industry trends and gives visibility to potential job openings.

Remember, the right resource can give you an unparalleled advantage. So arm yourself with these tools and keep one eye trained on the pulse of the industry.

Art Director Resume FAQ

Yes, a tailored resume is always better than a generic one as it allows you to showcase your skills and experiences that are the most relevant to the specific role. 

Absolutely! While technical skills are crucial, your soft skills, like communication, leadership, and problem-solving can distinguish you from other candidates. 

Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description into your resume. Avoid intricate designs and focus on standard fonts and formatting to ensure it is easily readable by the ATS. 

 A resume summary is for experienced professionals and focuses on your core skills and career highlights. A resume objective, on the other hand, is suitable for fresh graduates or those new to the field, emphasizing career goals and potential. 

Certifications, awards, volunteering activities, language skills, and interests are all valuable extras. Choose those that present you as a versatile and accomplished candidate. 

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

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