VP, Creative Director - INQ Studio

About the role

The Philadelphia Inquirer is seeking an experienced leader to oversee INQStudio, the Inquirer's in-house creative team. This role is responsible for leading the operations and execution of the team’s creative output while ensuring work is aligned with business objectives, brand standards, and stakeholder expectations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the team and all creative output produced by INQStudio - design, copy, events - ensuring high standards of quality, consistency, and brand alignment.
• Develop and maintain Inquirer brand standards, including visual marks, tone of voice, and overall communication style.
• Partner closely with the Chief Marketing Officer and Advertising Sales leadership to develop and execute on work that drives revenue goals.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the company from Product, Engineering & Design, Newsroom Design, to People & Culture to ensure a cohesive and compelling expression of the INQ brand.
• Serve as the lead creative consultant on strategic brand initiatives, including work produced by external agencies, providing creative direction, feedback, and guidance to ensure alignment with The Inquirer’s brand vision.
• Oversee workload management, creative priorities, and identify tools, technologies, and vendor partnerships that improve workflow, efficiency and creative output.

Requirements

• 10+ years of leadership experience in design in media or a related creative field, with proven success leading multidisciplinary creative teams and managing high-volume, high-visibility projects.
• Strong track record of leadership skills and managing creative teams.
• Strong operational and communication skills to manage creative workflows, meet deadlines and simplify processes.
• Executive presence to work with CEO, CMO and VP Sales on various projects and initiatives.
• Strong Design skills in a variety of mediums to provide vision, direction and hands-on work as needed.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma), along with a creative and bold portfolio that demonstrates design expertise and vision across print, digital, and brand identity.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar role within a media organization.
• Proven ability to manage and mentor a team.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understanding of media trends and consumer behavior.

Skills

• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and Figma.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understanding of media trends and consumer behavior.

Benefits

Our ideal candidate will be rewarded with a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

Pay

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Hybrid work schedule.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Philadelphia Inquirer is an equal opportunity employer for all regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, and any other category protected by federal, state and/or local law.