Executive Creative Director

WPP Unite Overview

There’s never been a more exciting time in marketing, as media and commerce continue to merge to drive meaningful consumer experiences. As one of the most innovative CPG companies in the world, Unilever, the maker of iconic brands such as Dove, Hellmann’s, TRESemmé, Degree and many others, is adapting to this rapidly changing landscape with the help of WPP and its unparalleled network of agencies. 

The newly-created unit, WPP Unite, will be the pioneering force at this intersection, led by two of WPP’s most dynamic agencies: GroupM and Barrows, operating as ONE end to end strategy, design, and execution powerhouse.

GroupM will bring their media thought-leadership and performance expertise, combined with the retail and commercial expertise of Barrows to deliver integrated, end-to-end programs for the entire Unilever portfolio of iconic, household brands. True to its name, the team operates with a unified vision, from initial strategy to final execution, leveraging our collective expertise in design, engineering, and media integration to craft world-class brand programming. 

WPP Unite, comprised of the best talent in the industry, will pioneer a truly integrated agency model and drive unprecedented growth for Unilever in the years to come.

Barrows

Barrows brings 40 years of expertise in retail design and marketing, and excels in leveraging insights and cutting-edge digital strategies to create engaging omni-channel experiences.

As a key part of WPP Unite, Barrows will  help shape the future of commerce marketing across renowned brand categories and retailers, and drive meaningful results for one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies.

Within the WPP Unite structure Barrows is seeking a dynamic Executive Creative Director responsible for leading and inspiring the creative team to develop innovative marketing campaigns that drive sales and brand engagement. The creative team works to develop commerce marketing concepts and designs for integrated marketing programs and experiential retail designs at mass retail across the US. They collaborate with clients to understand their vision, translating it into compelling visual and strategic concepts, and ensuring all creative output aligns with brand identity. They unlock big ideas that engage US and global audiences and produce compelling content that supports our clients' stories across digital and physical retail.

In addition to bringing a killer attitude and energy, this individual must be able to:

• Develop and oversee the creative vision and strategy for shopper marketing campaigns that align with client and business objectives
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of creative professionals, including graphic designers, industrial designers and copywriters, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and cross-functional leads, ensuring clear communication and understanding of creative concepts, project updates, and feedback
• Create and present compelling pitches and proposals to clients, effectively communicating creative concepts and their anticipated impact, ensuring consistency in brand messaging across all shopper marketing channels and touchpoints
• Guide the creative process from ideation to execution, ensuring all deliverables meet quality standards and brand guidelines
• Oversee project timelines ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and projects are delivered on schedule
• Work closely with account managers, strategists, media planners, and analytics teams to ensure cohesive and impactful campaigns
• Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies to continually innovate and push the boundaries of shopper marketing
• Assess the effectiveness of creative strategies through metrics and feedback, making data-driven adjustments as needed
• Build relationships with industry professionals and participate in events to promote the agency’s creative capabilities.

• 15+ years of agency and/or strategic creative experience in brand, trade or shopper marketing or category management
• CPG/Shopper experience a must
• Proven track record of managing and mentoring creative teams, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration
• Strong portfolio showcasing successful shopper marketing /CPG campaigns, demonstrating a range of creative concepts and execution
• Ability to develop and implement innovative creative strategies that align with client goals and market trends
• Experience working directly with clients, building relationships, and understanding their needs to drive effective solution
• In-depth understanding of shopper behavior, retail trends, and the competitive landscape within the marketing industry
• Familiarity with design and presentation software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) and emerging digital marketing tools and platforms
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present ideas clearly and persuasively
• Ability to work in the office 3 days a week

The salary range for this role is $175,000 to $275,000*

*exact compensation will be determined based on individual experience

Benefits include:

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision (with an option for free medical care!)
• 401K with a % match
• Various maternity/paternity leave options
• Fully funded disability and life insurance options
• Headspace subscription
• Wellness Stipend
• and more....