Lead Creative Strategist

About the Role

New Engen is seeking a dynamic Lead Creative Strategist to join Donut Studios, our specialized in-house creative agency dedicated to crafting high-impact, digital-first content. In this pivotal role, you will act as the strategic architect behind performance-driven campaigns, blending audience insights with creative intuition to help our clients scale smarter. You will serve as a bridge between media and creative teams, ensuring every asset we produce is grounded in data and optimized for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. As a leader within the studio, you will mentor talent, influence client direction, and pioneer new approaches in the ever-evolving social commerce landscape.

• Develop comprehensive performance-driven creative and messaging strategies across major digital channels including Meta, TikTok, YouTube, and Display.
• Serve as the primary creative strategy lead for assigned client accounts, presenting insights and recommendations in high-level stakeholder meetings.
• Translate complex consumer behaviors and audience mindsets into actionable creative briefs that inspire designers, editors, and copywriters.
• Partner closely with media teams to analyze real-time campaign performance, utilizing KPIs and data to iterate on creative concepts and messaging.
• Oversee the creative launch pipeline, ensuring all deliverables are high-quality, on-brand, and executed according to strategic timelines.
• Manage and mentor a team of direct reports, fostering a culture of professional growth, collaboration, and creative excellence.
• Utilize project management tools like Asana and Slack to streamline workflows and maintain clear communication across cross-functional departments.
• Ensure all creative output aligns with platform best practices and client brand guidelines while pushing the boundaries of traditional direct response advertising.

• 5+ years of experience ideating and developing high-performing direct response and social media creative strategies, preferably within an agency environment.
• Proven experience in a leadership or management capacity, with a track record of coaching direct reports and junior team members.
• Deep expertise in the digital landscape, with a finger on the pulse of current trends across TikTok, Reels, and YouTube.
• Exceptional ability to synthesize performance data into compelling narratives and strategic creative directions.
• Strong entrepreneurial spirit with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth startup culture.
• Experience with User Generated Content (UGC) and creator-led strategies is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with creative tools such as Adobe Creative Suite or Figma is a plus, along with proficiency in Google Sheets and Asana.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence both internal teams and external stakeholders.

• Fully remote or hybrid work environment with flexible hours to support work-life balance.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) plus observed company holidays.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage including medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Generous paid parental leave and family support programs.
• Life and AD&D insurance for peace of mind.
• Professional development opportunities and career learning programs.
• Pet care perks, commuter benefits, and exclusive employee discounts.

Required Skills