Log InSign Up
Article

What does an Advertising Director do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

An advertising director is responsible for the overall advertising strategy of a company or organization. This includes developing and implementing campaigns, managing budgets, and overseeing the work of advertising agencies. They also work closely with other departments, such as marketing, to ensure that the company's message is consistent across all channels.

Advertising Director job duties include:

  • Plan, direct, and coordinate advertising policies and programs
  • Develop and oversee advertising campaigns
  • Manage budgets and negotiate contracts with vendors and media outlets
  • Plan and direct marketing and sales promotion activities
  • Monitor industry trends and identify opportunities for new campaigns
  • Analyze market research data to identify target audience
  • Collaborate with creative team to develop advertising materials
  • Present proposals to clients
  • Negotiate terms of advertising contracts
  • Monitor campaign performance and make necessary adjustments

Advertising Director Job Requirements

Most advertising directors have a bachelor’s degree in advertising, marketing, or a related field. Many also have a master’s degree or certification in advertising or marketing. Advertising directors typically have several years of experience working in advertising or a related field before being promoted to director.

Advertising Director Skills

  • Strategic thinker
  • Creativity
  • Persuasive
  • Passionate
  • Determined
  • Organized
  • Confident
  • Driven
  • Leader
  • Innovative
  • Resourceful

Related: Top Advertising Director Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Advertising Director

Advertising directors are responsible for the overall advertising strategy of a company or organization. They develop and oversee campaigns, work with creative teams to develop advertising materials, and track the effectiveness of campaigns. To become an advertising director, you will need several years of experience in the field, as well as a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field. In this essay, we will outline the steps you need to take to become an advertising director.

Step 1: Get a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field.

While you can become an advertising director without a formal education, most employers prefer candidates who have at least a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field. A degree will give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in this role.

Step 2: Gain several years of experience in the field.

Advertising directors typically have several years of experience working in the field before being promoted to this role. Start your career by working as an account executive, copywriter, or other entry-level position in an advertising agency. Alternatively, you could also work in-house for a company in their marketing or communications department.

Step 3: Develop your management and leadership skills.

As an advertising director, you will be responsible for leading and managing a team of creatives. Therefore, it is important that you develop your management and leadership skills. You can do this by taking on additional responsibility at work, such as leading projects or mentoring junior colleagues. Alternatively, you could also enroll in a management development program or take courses in leadership development.

Step 4: Stay up to date with industry trends and best practices.

To be successful as an advertising director, you need to stay up to date with industry trends and best practices. Read trade publications, attend industry events, and network with other professionals in the field. This will not only make you more knowledgeable about the industry but also help you build relationships with other professionals who can provide valuable insights and advice.

Related: Advertising Director Resume Example

Related: Advertising Director Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles