growthroles

Director, Branded Video

Complex Open · verified Jul 30, 2026
On-site New York Full-time Director Video Production

Leadership Video Production role at Complex. New York · full-time · $140,000–$150,000 base.

SalaryStated by Complex
$140,000 – $150,000
Base salary for this role, in USD per year, as published in the posting.
This role, from ComplexOur estimate for the market: $115,000–$143,125
Above the market median of $126,250 for lead video production roles in New York.
Worked out from 6 postings that stated pay, median $126,250. Last updated Jul 30, 2026.
Role brief

Growth Roles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

  • Build a fresh set of branded video guidelines alongside the Head of Branded Content, centered on editorial storytelling
  • Pitch new video series concepts and formats with the pre-sale strategy team
  • Drive creative for sold video and photo programs, writing treatments, scripts, show formats and mood boards
  • Give creative direction on set, balancing editorial value with client brand cues
  • Run multiple projects at once and lead a team of senior production professionals

What you bring

  • Ten or more years in branded video and photo production, whether as director, DP, creative producer or agency creative director
  • A dynamic creative range across long form, commercials, social, livestreams and docu-style, plus the logistics to solve production problems
  • Experience building YouTube-first show formats for digital publishers
  • A history of culturally-driven branded content that blends storytelling with brand integration
  • Track record leading multi-disciplinary production teams

Who this fits

This suits a hands-on creative leader who is equally strong on vision and production logistics, and who genuinely follows music, fashion, sports and pop culture. It is a New York onsite role that involves managing people and serving as the main client liaison. Experience folding AI into creative workflows is a bonus. You must be authorized to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship.

From the employer

Company And Culture   Complex is the definitive platform for global youth culture and music lifestyle, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge content, commerce and live experiences with unparalleled scale. Through innovative content, Complex tells stories of music, streetwear and style, sports, art and beyond. Its content engages in a dynamic conversation with the audience, reflecting and shaping the zeitgeist of convergence culture. A powerful media juggernaut paired with a curated marketplace, Complex is redefining the way fans interact with their favorite brands and artists and reshaping the future of digital culture and commerce.   Why We're Hiring   Our team is growing, and we’re looking for a visionary leader to take our branded video efforts to the next level. As we continue to connect with diverse audiences, we need someone who can bring a bold creative vision and strategic expertise to shape compelling, impactful content that resonates. This role is key to driving innovation, elevating our storytelling, and strengthening partnerships with clients and collaborators. If you’re passionate about crafting branded video content that breaks the mold while leaving a lasting impression we want to hear from you!  

What You’ll Do

    Strategic Leadership:

  • Work with Head of Branded Content to establish new set of branded video guidelines that emphasize editorial storytelling and captivating visuals.

  • Collaborate with Pre-Sale Strategy team to pitch concepts and formats for new branded video series.

  • Stay ahead of trends in branded content, video storytelling, and emerging platforms to drive differentiation.

    • Creative Direction & Production:

  • Lead creative development for sold video and photo-focused programs that meet client objectives while engaging the Complex audience.

  • Creative duties will include: writing video treatments, show formats, scripts, mood boards and offering recommendations on talent, music, graphics, cinematography and more.

  • Present content treatments to clients and come up with creative ways to incorporate brand feedback while maintaining Complex creative principles. 

  • Provide on set creative direction that balances the editorial value of the product with client brand cues.

  • Work closely with internal producers and external partners to bring your creative to life.

    • Project Management & Execution:

  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

  • Serve as the primary liaison between the creative team, clients, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and satisfaction.

  • Utilize data insights and performance metrics to optimize content strategy and drive measurable results.

    • Team Development:

  • Manage and develop a team of senior production professionals (creative directors, line producers, and on air talent), fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and accountability.

  • Provide clear feedback and guidance to elevate team performance and output.

Who You Are

  • 10+ years of experience in branded video and photo production as a film director, director of photography, creative producer, and/or agency creative director.

  • A left AND right brain thinker. Candidate must demonstrate a dynamic background in creative development (long form content, commercial spots, social, livestreams, docu-style, etc.) and the logistical knowledge to navigate everyday production challenges.

  • An avid fan of music, fashion, sports, TV / film, social media, and pop culture at large.

  • Proven track record of creating culturally-driven branded video content and balancing editorial storytelling and brand integration.

  • A seasoned creative with experience developing YouTube first show formats for digital publishers. 

  • A desire to push for creative excellence by incorporating out-of-the-box approaches to branded video.

  • Experience managing multi-disciplinary production teams.

  • Experience incorporating AI into creative development and production workflows is a plus. 

What We Offer

  • Best in class health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Healthcare FSA 
  • Dependent Care FSA 
  • Commuter Benefits FSA 
  • Short-term/long-term disability and life insurance
  • Paid Parental leave
  • 401k with 4% match
  • Pet Insurance
  • Legal and Identity Theft Plans
  • Flexible PTO
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.   The above statements cover what are generally believed to be principal and essential functions of the job. Specific circumstances may allow or require some incumbents assigned to the job to perform a different combination of duties.   Complex participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.   Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for visa sponsorship.