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Creative Lead Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Childcare - Lead Teacher

Dubuque, IA

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Hills and Dales Lead Teacher The Lead Teacher's responsibilities include planning and implementing creative learning experiences through Creative Curriculum in art, outdoor activities, dramatic play ...

Description NOC Lead BUSINESS UNIT: BeyondReach FUNCTION: NOC REPORTS TO : Director of Service ... Generate creative solutions and approaches to issues and organizational processes Administrative ...

NOC Lead BUSINESS UNIT: BeyondReach FUNCTION: NOC REPORTS TO : Director of Service Delivery ... Generate creative solutions and approaches to issues and organizational processes Administrative ...

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Showing results 1-20

Creative Lead information

See Iowa salary details

$44.1K

$98.2K

$148.4K

How much do creative lead jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative lead in Iowa is $98,240.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,200.00 and $137,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Creative Lead, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Lead, you need a strong background in visual design, creative strategy, and project management, often supported by a degree in design, advertising, or a related field. Proficiency with design software like Adobe Creative Suite, prototyping tools, and familiarity with digital marketing platforms are typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and collaboration skills help inspire teams and align creative vision with client goals. These skills are essential for delivering innovative campaigns that meet business objectives and foster team productivity.

What Is a Creative Lead?

Creative leads are responsible for driving the design and creative aspects of a project. You find creative leads in a variety of industries, such as film, television, music, advertising, and video game development. As a creative lead, your job duties include developing the overall design elements of a project, overseeing the creation of art elements, and ensuring that the final product matches the original design concept. The become a creative lead on a project, you need a bachelor’s degree in art, graphic design, or a related field and several years of industry experience.

What is the role of a creative lead?

A creative lead is responsible for guiding the creative vision and direction of projects, managing creative teams, and ensuring that design, branding, and messaging align with client or company goals. They often oversee concept development, collaborate with stakeholders, and use tools like Adobe Creative Suite to produce and review work.

What is the difference between Creative Lead vs Graphic Designer?

AspectCreative LeadGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, marketing, or related field; experience in leadership rolesBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field; strong portfolio
Work EnvironmentLeads creative teams, collaborates with clients, oversees projectsDesigns visual content, works independently or in small teams
Employer & Industry UsageAdvertising agencies, marketing departments, media companiesDesign studios, marketing teams, corporate branding
Common Search & ComparisonCreative Lead vs Graphic Designer

The main difference between a Creative Lead and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and experience level. A Creative Lead oversees creative projects and manages teams, requiring leadership skills and strategic vision. In contrast, a Graphic Designer focuses on creating visual content, often working independently or within a team. Both roles require design skills and relevant education, but the Creative Lead typically has more experience and a broader scope of responsibilities.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

For a Creative Lead, earning $500,000 annually typically requires senior-level experience, leadership in high-profile projects, and often working in large corporations, advertising agencies, or tech companies. Compensation at this level may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive industries or executive roles. Such high earnings are rare and usually involve extensive expertise and a strong professional network.

How much do creative leads make?

Creative leads typically earn a median annual salary between $80,000 and $130,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior creative leads or those in large organizations can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 with additional bonuses or profit sharing.

How does a Creative Lead typically collaborate with other departments to ensure cohesive project outcomes?

A Creative Lead works closely with cross-functional teams, such as marketing, product management, and development, to align creative vision with business objectives. They facilitate regular meetings to gather input, provide feedback, and ensure that creative concepts are integrated seamlessly into broader campaigns or product launches. This role often involves translating complex ideas between creative and non-creative stakeholders to maintain both brand consistency and project timelines. Effective communication and adaptability are key to managing these collaborations and delivering successful results.

What are Creative Leads?

Creative Leads are professionals who oversee the creative direction of projects within organizations, typically in advertising, marketing, design, or media industries. They guide teams of designers, writers, and other creatives to ensure that visual and conceptual elements align with the brand’s vision and goals. Creative Leads collaborate closely with clients and stakeholders, manage project timelines, and provide feedback to ensure high-quality deliverables. Their role is both strategic and hands-on, blending creativity with leadership and project management skills.

What is the highest paying job for creative people?

For creative professionals, executive roles such as Creative Director or Chief Creative Officer tend to be the highest paying, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and a strong portfolio, typically within advertising, media, or design agencies.
What are popular job titles related to Creative Lead jobs in Iowa? For Creative Lead jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Creative Lead jobs in IA? For Creative Lead jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Creative Lead job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,240 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Events Creative Director

ITA Group Inc

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

We're Hiring: Events Creative Director
West Des Moines, IA or Atlanta, GA | Travel: 30% | Full-Time

At ITA Group, we believe every event should feel like a story worth telling, and we’re looking for an Events Creative Director to help us bring those stories to life. This role is the north star of the look and feel of our events, leading the creative vision from concept to execution. You’ll guide a talented team in crafting immersive, strategic, and unforgettable experiences for Fortune 500 clients across the globe.

What You’ll Do:

  • Own the creative vision for high-impact events, ensuring every detail aligns with the client’s brand, goals, and audience
  • Collaborate with strategists, event managers, and sales teams to develop innovative communications campaigns
  • Lead and inspire designers, writers, and freelancers to produce bold, effective, and beautiful work
  • Present ideas with clarity and confidence to internal and external stakeholders
  • Stay ahead of trends in experiential design, live environments, and event tech
  • Travel to support installations, attend events, and meet with clients — because seeing your vision come to life is part of the magic!

What You Bring:

  • 7+ years of creative leadership experience across live, digital, and/or transmedia engagements
  • A strategic mindset with a passion for storytelling and participant experience
  • Strong design or copy chops (bonus if you’ve got both!)
  • Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills
  • A collaborative spirit and a love for bringing big ideas to life

Why ITA Group?
We’re a purpose-driven company that creates powerful moments of engagement for employees, channel partners, customers, and event attendees. Our culture is built on trust, creativity, and a shared commitment to excellence. You’ll work with smart, kind people who care deeply about what they do and how they do it. If you’re ready to lead with vision, inspire with creativity, and make an impact through unforgettable events, we’d love to meet you. Apply now and help us shape the future of event experiences!