1

Creative Development Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Creative Project Manager

Carlsbad, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

This role sits at the intersection of creative development, go-to-market execution, and systems/process management--ensuring that campaigns, assets, and cross-functional deliverables move efficiently ...

Creative Project Manager

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site +1

$106K - $143K/yr

The ideal candidate is a highly organized project manager with experience supporting integrated marketing and creative development in an in-house or agency environment. They are a proactive partner ...

Creative Project Manager

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Manage all aspects of project development, from concept to completion Collaborate with diverse teams to bring ideas to life Develop critical timelines and key milestones in the creative development ...

Proven experience managing photo, video, social, digital, and campaign productions from concept through final delivery. * Experience contributing to creative development, campaign ideation, script ...

Creative Producer

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Proven experience managing photo, video, social, digital, and campaign productions from concept through final delivery. * Experience contributing to creative development, campaign ideation, script ...

Creative Producer

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Proven experience managing photo, video, social, digital, and campaign productions from concept through final delivery. * Experience contributing to creative development, campaign ideation, script ...

Creative Director, Copy

Glendale, CA ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

They build tailored, data-driven campaigns across key digital channels and manage everything from ... Lead creative development for broadcast and video projects, including concepting, scripting, pre ...

Support creative development for both B2C and B2B marketing initiatives. * Lead, mentor, and ... Experience managing creative teams and directing photo/video productions. * Knowledge of AI-powered ...

Sr. Project Manager, Creative

Van Nuys, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Develops and manages production schedules, resourcing, prioritization, timelines, budgets, and ... Ensures creative development work is completed to specifications, brief, brand standards, and ...

Sr. Project Manager, Creative

Van Nuys, CA ยท Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Develops and manages production schedules, resourcing, prioritization, timelines, budgets, and ... Ensures creative development work is completed to specifications, brief, brand standards, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Creative Development Manager information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$76.4K

$131.3K

How much do creative development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative development manager in California is $76,424.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a creative development manager balance creative vision with project deadlines and client expectations?

A Creative Development Manager often serves as a bridge between creative teams, clients, and stakeholders. Balancing creative vision with deadlines and expectations requires strong project management skills, clear communication, and the ability to set realistic milestones. Regular check-ins with both the creative team and clients help ensure alignment and address any challenges early. By fostering a collaborative environment and prioritizing tasks, the manager can support innovative ideas while still delivering projects on time and within scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a creative development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Development Manager, you need expertise in project management, creative direction, and content strategy, often supported by a degree in marketing, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite), project management tools (such as Asana or Trello), and digital marketing platforms is typically required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and collaboration skills help you guide creative teams and foster innovation. These abilities are vital to delivering effective campaigns, driving team performance, and meeting organizational goals in a dynamic creative environment.

What is the difference between Creative Development Manager vs Creative Producer?

AspectCreative Development ManagerCreative Producer
Primary FocusOversees the development of creative concepts, manages creative teams, and guides project visionExecutes creative projects, manages production schedules, and coordinates resources
Required SkillsCreative leadership, project management, industry knowledgeProduction management, budgeting, communication skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, collaborative with creative teamsOn-site or remote, involved in production phases
Common Industry UsageAdvertising, media, entertainmentFilm, television, advertising

The Creative Development Manager focuses on conceptualizing and guiding creative projects from inception, while the Creative Producer handles the execution, production, and delivery. Both roles require strong creative and project management skills but differ in their primary responsibilities and involvement in the project lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Creative Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Creative Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Creative Development Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Creative Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Creative Development Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,424 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Director, Creative Development & Strategy

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

About the Company

Fanatics Collectibles is a new company operating at the intersection of collectibles, culture, and technology. Backed by world-class investors, operators, and sports & entertainment partners, we are building the global leader in next-generation collectibles. As part of the broader Fanatics ecosystem, we leverage a digital sports platform that spans over 900 sports properties and engages more than 81 million fans. Together, we are reimagining every part of the collectibles experience for fans, partners, and creators.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

As theย Director of Creative Development & Strategy, you will lead the creative vision for the Topps brand, overseeing the development of campaigns, brand narratives, and visual identity across platforms. This strategic role combines brand storytelling, creative leadership, and cross-functional partnership to drive brand resonance, cultural relevance, and collector engagement.ย This position will be responsible for handling a wide variety of duties, which include, but are not limited to the ones listed below.

You will:

  • Define and drive the long-term creative strategy for the Topps brand, balancing legacy with innovation.
  • Produce world-class work creative across digital, print, social, and content.
  • Collaborate with Marketing, Product, and Brand teams to ensure creative execution aligns with business goals and collector insights.
  • Develop campaign platforms and storytelling strategies for major product launches, partnerships, and brand initiatives.
  • Guide creative development for licensed properties across sports, entertainment, and pop culture.
  • Champion creative experimentation and innovation-pushing the brand into new visual and cultural territory.
  • Present concepts to executive leadership and licensing partners with clarity, inspiration, and strategic rationale.
  • Maintain brand consistency and creative excellence across all consumer touchpoints.
  • Build and mentor a high-performing creative team, fostering a culture of collaboration, feedback, and growth.

WHAT YOU BRING

  • 10+ years of creative leadership experience in brand, agency, or entertainment environments, with a strong portfolio demonstrating strategic thinking and impactful creative work.
  • Deep understanding of brand identity, narrative development, and integrated campaign strategy.
  • Proven success leading and inspiring creative teams across multiple disciplines (design, copy, content).
  • Expertise in working with licensed brands and navigating partner approval processes (experience in sports or entertainment licensing is a plus).
  • Strong visual sensibility and storytelling skills, with experience across digital, print, packaging, and social.
  • Comfortable leading strategic presentations and creative reviews with senior leadership and stakeholders.
  • Experience managing external creative partners, agencies, and freelancers.
  • Passion for culture, fandom, and collectibles-a deep appreciation of what makes brands meaningful to consumers.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment that values innovation and experimentation.

WHY JOIN US

At Topps, you'll be part of a creative-forward team reshaping one of the most storied brands in sports and entertainment. Backed by Fanatics, we're scaling a creative vision that honors the past while building the future. We are committed to creating an inclusive, collaborative workplace where your ideas-and your design-can make an impact.

Ensure your Fanatics job offer is legitimate and don't fall victim to fraud.ย  Fanatics never seeks payment from job applicants.ย Feel free to ask your recruiter for a phone call or other type of communication for interview, and ensure your communication is coming from a Fanatics email address (including @collectfanatics.com).ย  For added security, where possible, apply through our company website atย www.fanaticsinc.com/careers