Director, Creative and Strategy

About the company

This role is with the China arm of a well-established German exhibition and trade fair business that has operated in Shanghai for nearly 25 years. The team delivers premium brand environments for both local and international clients, blending German engineering quality with strong on-the-ground delivery in China. The organization is now looking for a senior leader to help drive its next phase of consulting-led expansion in the market.

The role

This is a high-level leadership position for someone who can influence creative direction, strategic planning, and business growth. You will partner closely with the General Manager in China and coordinate with teams in Germany, Singapore, and Austria to improve alignment, strengthen creative output, and deepen client relationships. The position combines strategic thinking with active creative leadership and commercial ownership. You will shape standout brand experiences across exhibitions, showrooms, retail settings, and integrated campaigns, combining storytelling, spatial planning, digital elements, and measurable business results. This is a hands-on role with direct involvement in major pitches, concept creation, and client meetings.

Key responsibilities

• Lead important client pitches and senior-level presentations, while personally guiding concept development and proposal preparation in collaboration with internal teams.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders by supporting high-quality delivery and ensuring execution standards remain strong.
• Direct creative concepts and strategic frameworks for major projects across exhibitions, showrooms, retail spaces, and integrated campaigns.
• Bring physical environments together with digital touchpoints and content to build compelling brand stories and experiences.
• Contribute to business strategy as part of the China leadership team and help align local direction with the global headquarters.
• Use your industry network to open new business opportunities and sustain growth across key accounts.
• Serve as the main communication bridge between China and the German headquarters, helping maintain standards and global alignment.
• Coach the team toward future-ready creative thinking and performance-focused execution.
• Participate in cross-border discussions and coordination with international teams.
• Lead major company communication initiatives and oversee the development of the brand’s digital presence across channels such as the website, WeChat, and RedNote.

Profile and qualifications

The ideal candidate brings a senior creative or strategic background with strong exposure to exhibitions, retail, and integrated brand experiences. You should be comfortable leading commercially important work, inspiring teams, and presenting with authority in front of clients and internal stakeholders. Strong visual sense, spatial awareness, and cross-functional collaboration are essential.

Selection process

Shortlisted candidates may be asked to contribute to a live client pitch or RFP during the final stage. This is a paid assignment and is intended to reflect the real scope of the role. The first interview round will be handled by the German headquarters and will focus on profile fit, international collaboration, and creative/strategic leadership. Candidates who move forward will then speak with the China General Manager to assess market execution, client handling, and local business fit. Final decisions will be made jointly.

Contractual note

This is a locally employed position based on a Chinese employment contract in Shanghai.

Application materials

• A CV or resume showing relevant experience and achievements.
• A portfolio that demonstrates the full journey from concept and strategic thinking through to final delivery.
• Optional case studies that show how you approach pitches or complex assignments.
• Optional motivation statement explaining your interest in the role and your view on market trends.

What the company offers

• A senior leadership opportunity with real influence over the company’s business development direction in China and beyond.
• Exposure to an international platform and collaboration with leading global clients.
• Strong compensation potential and scope for long-term career progression.