Group Design Director (FTC) at AKQA

<p class="p1"><span class="s1">At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create ideas, products and services that move the world forward. We exist at the intersection of design, technology and culture — creating work that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">As Group Creative Director, the opportunity is to define what comes next.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">Leading the vision, shaping the work, and setting the standard for digital craft across brand and product experiences, this role guides ideas from first thought to final execution — ensuring they are intelligent, innovative and unforgettable.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">A creative leader and maker at heart, this role balances bold thinking with meticulous craft. Teams are built, talent is elevated, and an environment is created where great ideas thrive.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">Global product storytelling and launch experiences sit at the core</span><span class="s1">&nbsp;moments where every detail matters, and every interaction carries meaning.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">Influence extends beyond the work itself, shaping culture, raising ambition, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">This role is embedded within a client team in London and requires onsite collaboration in the client studio three days per week.</span></p> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">This is a 6–9 month fixed-term contract, offered on a hybrid basis.</span></p> <p class="p1">&nbsp;</p> <p class="p1"><strong>ROLE REQUIREMENTS</strong></p> <ul class="ul1"> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Define and uphold the creative vision and standard across all brand, product, and interactive work</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Lead the end-to-end creative process, from concept through to execution and delivery</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Deliver innovative, high-craft digital experiences that meet both client and business objectives</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (design, UX, copy, technology) to solve complex challenges</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Mentor and develop creative talent, fostering a high-performing and inclusive team environment</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Act as a trusted client partner, confidently presenting and defending creative ideas</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Translate strategic objectives into compelling creative solutions and narratives</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Champion and implement emerging technologies and workflows (e.g. AI, CGI, prototyping)</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Ensure alignment through regular creative reviews and feedback loops</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Lead and contribute to new business pitches and opportunities</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Elevate AKQA’s reputation through award-winning work, case studies, and industry presence</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Balance creative ambition with commercial impact, ensuring effective and efficient delivery</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Influence cross-functional teams, championing design excellence across the studio</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Maintain a hands-on approach where needed, guiding craft and execution at key moments</span></li> </ul> <p class="p3">&nbsp;</p> <p class="p1"><strong>QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS</strong></p> <ul class="ul1"> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">A visionary creative leader with a relentless commitment to craft and innovation</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Deep expertise in digital design, brand systems, and interactive experiences</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">A multidisciplinary mindset, spanning product, brand, and technology</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">A natural mentor who brings out the best in people and teams</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">A compelling storyteller and presenter, able to inspire clients and colleagues alike</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Both strategic and hands-on, blending conceptual thinking with executional excellence</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Curious and forward-thinking, with a passion for emerging technologies</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Commercially aware, with the ability to balance creativity with business impact</span></li> <li class="li2"><span class="s1">Collaborative, empathetic, and confident, able to navigate complexity and drive alignment</span></li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="p1">Explore our extensive range of benefits<a href="https://www.akqa.com/studios/london/benefits/">&nbsp;<strong>here</strong></a>.</p> <p class="p1">&nbsp;</p><div class="content-conclusion"><p><span style="font-weight: 300;">We believe great work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 300;">AKQA is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.</span></p> <hr> <p><span style="font-weight: 300;"></span></p> <p class="x_MsoNormal"><strong><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">About WPP</span></strong></p> <p class="x_MsoNormal">WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite&nbsp;cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel&nbsp;in a single company –&nbsp;powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open,&nbsp;to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://wpp.com/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">WPP.com</a>.</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 300;"></span></p></div>