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Over 40 in Advertising
Associate Creative Director

I’m over 50, and though I’ve recently made it to Associate Creative Director, it feels like I arrived late. I still work like a bee, and honestly, I think I only have this job because I settled for a title and salary that don’t match my experience. I feel out of sync—like I missed the chance to hit my goals when I had more drive. Now, my energy’s not what it used to be, and this is the only career I’ve ever known. I’m not sure what comes next.

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  1. Associate Creative Director 1

    What comes next? Whatever you want. If you just became ACD, learn the managing side and see if/how much you like it. It is potentially your stepping stone to become CD later if you wish. Or you can choose to stay there and be good at it. I have been an ACD since like 2014, so… like 10 years. I’m 50 as well. By most accounts I probably should be CD, but there are several reasons I’m not CD. First of all, I don’t want to stop doing the work. I’m good at it. And while I’m ok at managing, I don’t exactly enjoy it as much. If I become CD I will probably be in back to back meetings all day and will have to hand the creativity to my team. I will miss the writing and the brainstorming and other stuff. A lot of people hate the ACD position and think it’s one of the most demanding. But some people inversely think it’s the best creative position. As an ACD you’re expected to be the top creative problem solver. The one who has enough experience to crack everything else the other teams can’t. Or at least do it better and faster. Or lead the team to do it. But you’re still getting your hands dirty. As a CD that let becomes less and less part of the job. Try the new role and see what you’re good at and what you’re not. You actually may find out you love managing more than actually getting your hands dirty. That’s ok too. Don’t stop learning. That’s what will kill your career. It’s not the grey hairs.

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    Associate Creative Director
    Author

    Thank you for your thoughtful response. I’m not especially driven to become a Creative Director either. What I truly love is the craft — creating, solving, building — and like you, I know I’m good at it. But after so many years in the industry, I sometimes feel a deep disconnect between how much I’ve given and what I’ve gotten back. It’s hard to explain — I had a late start, and that’s part of it. But more than titles or promotions, I just wish I had reached a few personal milestones by now. Moments that made me feel like it was all worth it.

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  2. Creative Director 1

    I think one of the great errors creative people make is that they feel they should become a creative director. It’s a different job. Different skills. ACD is a great job. You get to mentor some, lead some, and still get to actively create - there’s less politics, less pressure, and less BS. And while you don’t get to make what a CD makes, it’s still pretty good money in the grand scheme of things. Sit right. Enjoy where you are. And your next move will be apparent when you’re ready for it. And if not, you’ve ascended to a pretty great place.

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