Creativity Manager Definition and Responsibilities

A creative manager—sometimes called a creative services manager or creative services director—handles the production and processes of making a creative product. They act as a project manager, creating action plans and problem-solving as they guide team members toward a finished product for a company. A creative manager may work for an agency or in-house for a company; this role generally works closely with the creative director, who ensures the project does not fall outside the original creative vision.

While a creative manager acts as a facilitator to initiate and develop a creative product, the creative director’s primary responsibility is to monitor the project to ensure it remains within the brand standards or maintains the creative vision it set out to accomplish. The creative director job description includes overseeing and managing all the aesthetic and functional pieces of a project, ensuring each discipline comes together and operates smoothly from start to finish. They usually come equipped with a bachelor's degree in a specific creative field—such as marketing, graphic design, or a related job field—and have at least seven to ten years of experience.

As they try to get a creative product from idea to the finish line, a creative manager has many responsibilities. These include:

• Brainstorming in the early stages of a project: A creative manager will serve as the facilitator for projects and will ideate and develop concepts for a project. They may lead the brainstorming process and collaborate with other creative departments, such as copywriters and illustrators, members of the digital marketing team, or the art director and creative director.
• Meeting with clients and stakeholders to discuss needs: Before a project begins, the creative manager may meet with clients, stakeholders, or others at higher levels in the workspace to determine what kind of product they need.
• Overseeing daily tasks: A creative manager is almost like a product manager. They need the interpersonal skills, communication skills, and multitasker skills to ensure team members have fulfilled their responsibilities and that every part of the creative project workflow runs smoothly. They will also need to manage budgets and timelines to keep projects on task.
• Problem-solving issues during development: Many problems can arise during the creative process, including deadlines getting tight or team members struggling to complete a task. A creative manager needs problem-solving skills to deal with whatever problems surface during the creative process.

Creative managers work with teams of creative people on a range of projects. To prepare yourself for a part-time or full-time job at a start-up or company where you will work with stakeholders or clients, consider taking the following tips:

1. 1. Create a portfolio. Potential employers will want to see what you can accomplish. Showcase your design skills or how you execute an idea to give them how you work. A portfolio of work samples will highlight your talents and show what you can bring to the table.
2. 2. Develop your skills. Creative managers must work with many different creative teams, so ensure you are adept at handling multiple departments. Go above and beyond, honing your skills in various creative areas to expand your knowledge and talents. Make yourself an indispensable asset to any advertising agency.
3. 3. Earn a degree. The creative manager position usually requires a bachelor's degree or master’s degree in a specific creative field, such as marketing, graphic design, or fine arts.
4. 4. Join a professional organization. If you choose to join a professional organization or guild, you can show your dedication to the industry. Members of these groups often receive key resources and more potential opportunities for professional development.
5. 5. Start small. Apply for an internship, entry-level job, or junior role at an ad agency. Doing this can expose you to various brands, which can help you build your reputation and experience. It also allows you to network with members of the creative team and learn everything you can from your coworkers in a work environment.

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