Aptive is seeking a Creative Service Program Manager with demonstrated experience to assist with the development of products and production of materials through an integrated communication campaign in support of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate. The campaign will communicate the agency's strategy, accomplishments and goals and garners buy-in from employees and stakeholders. The Creative Service Program Manager will provide oversight and leadership in the enhancement and augmentation of the S&T Communications & Outreach Division (COD).

The Creative Service Program Manager manages the strategic direction and creative ideation performance of the creative team. They will ensure the team creates engaging brands, campaigns, and creative ideas that change audience perceptions and move people to action. The Creative Services Program Manager will be responsible for defining, leading, and managing the creative philosophy, vision, and the creative output of the team. They will cultivate and maintain a collaborative, welcoming, inspiring, and respectful environment that encourages strategic and unexpected ideas.

This position requires strong understanding of all types of print, digital, and broadcast marketing assets, as well as the ability to rapidly develop a deep understanding of the DHS S&T’s unique challenges and needs in order to tailor strategies and products to meet them.  The desired candidate is a self-starter, proactive problem solver and action-oriented team player with previous experience in creative team management. This position requires an individual that is committed to providing superior service, poised under pressure and has a positive and flexible attitude.

This full-time position is primarily located in Alexandria, Virginia and the anticipated start date is June 1, 2021. Please note that until COVID-19 social distancing restrictions are lifted, this position will be fully remote

• Oversee a creative team and chart a path forward for continued growth in capability, engagement and, innovation withing DHS S&T.
• Own creative strategy and ideation, working with the project managers and the larger team to develop foundational strategies and specific concepts that will achieve client goals.
• Collaborate with DHS S&T and freelance strategists, analytics experts, technologists, and marketing specialists to create compelling campaigns and stories that appeal to the targeted audience.
• Proactively monitor the quality of creative products being produced and submitted, including images, graphics, banners, videos, audio recordings, and written content.
• Participate in the development of creative briefs and overarching creative concepts for campaigns and other deliverables.Provide senior level art direction across client and product types, coaching designers, photographers, and videographers to do their best work and pursue distinctive creative executions.
• Lead the development of creative communications products with a consistent look and feel.
• Maintain brand standards and brand integrity in developed creative.
• Receive and incorporate constructive feedback, finding creative solutions that align with DHS S&T’s vision.
• Offer input to creative meetings and sharing ideas.
• Understanding of accessibility testing, tools, and standards (Section 508 of the Americans with Disabilities Act).

• 8+ years of relevant experience overseeing integrated creative content teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations or marketing.
• Proven experience in managing diverse creative projects and meeting deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office – PowerPoint, Word, Excel, etc.
• Active DHS Suitability Determination.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S

• PMP Certification.
• Experienced in Adobe Creative Suite to include, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, XD. After Effects, Premiere knowledge is a plus.
• Deep understanding of visual messaging and imagery, including best practices for language and graphic depictions.
• Experience in directing complex projects involving senior stakeholders and inter disciplinary creative teams.
• Exceptional people skills and very high EQ, with the ability to collaborate across teams, clients, personalities, and styles.
• Proven experience in managing multiple creative projects and meeting deadlines.
• Experience with conceptual design, logo development, branding and marketing.
• Strong time management, creativity and problem-solving skills.
• Understanding of concepting and implementation of visual elements (layout, typography and color theory).
• Ability to get up to speed quickly on complex issues; desire to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.
• Capable self-starter with a drive to get all types of work done and high attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.

The Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is the science advisor to the Secretary and serves as the research and development arm of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Established by Congress in 2003, S&T conducts basic and applied research, development, testing and evaluation activities in alignment with the DHS mission. S&T does the science that strengthens the nation’s overall security and develops and transitions the technologies that allow those on the front lines to complete their missions effectively and safely.

Aptive is a modern federal consulting firm focused on human experience, digital services, and business transformation. We harness creativity, technology, and culture to connect people and systems to impact the world. We’re advisors, strategists, and engineers focused on people, above all else.

We believe in generating success collaboratively, leaving client organizations stronger after every engagement and building trust for the next big challenge. Our work inspires people, fuels change and makes an impact. Join our team to be part of positive change in your community and our nation.

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.

This position supports a federal government contract and is subject to government vaccination mandates or other customer vaccination requirements. All new hires are required to report their vaccination status and proof of vaccination, or an adjudicated accommodation may be required for employment.