Senior Art Director - Automotive Visual Storytelling

About NIO Inc.

NIO Inc., established in November 2014, is a pioneering manufacturer of premium smart electric vehicles based in China. The company's mission is to create a joyful lifestyle and foster a community through cutting-edge electric vehicle technologies, including autonomous driving, digital integration, electric powertrains, and innovative battery solutions such as Battery as a Service (BaaS) and Autonomous Driving as a Service (ADaaS).

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Art Director with extensive experience in automobile and product photography to contribute to the future of our vehicle and product visualizations. This role bridges the gap between brand development, product innovation, and design, working closely with the Vehicle Design team to translate design concepts into captivating brand narratives. You will be tasked with ensuring consistent application of the Design DNA across all visual platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and continuously refine the global visual language for all visual outputs.
• Collaborate within the Design department alongside Vehicle Design and CMF teams to transform design intentions into engaging visual storytelling for both internal and external audiences.
• Lead the creative direction for automotive photography, video productions, product launches, and worldwide marketing campaigns.
• Conceptualize and produce innovative creative ideas and visual stories that enhance product narratives and evoke emotional connections.
• Oversee and manage photographers, filmmakers, CGI artists, retouchers, and creative agencies wherever required.
• Set and maintain photography and image production standards across departments.
• Contribute to the creation and refinement of brand guidelines relating to imagery, photography, and storytelling.
• Integrate cutting-edge AI imagery and emerging creative technologies into future workflow processes.
• Maintain a unified, high-end visual identity consistent across all customer interactions.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• 7 to 12 years of professional experience in art direction, photography, visual communication, or brand experience design.
• Portfolio demonstrating mastery in photography, visual storytelling, and art direction.
• Experience in automotive, luxury, technology, fashion, or lifestyle brand environments.
• Profound knowledge of image creation, composition, lighting, color theory, narrative building, and post-production techniques.
• Keen eye for premium aesthetic standards and visual excellence.
• Advanced skills in graphic design with proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite applications including Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with photographers, filmmakers, CGI teams, and external production vendors.
• Strong conceptual skills capable of translating strategic ideas into engaging visual experiences.
• Fluent English with experience working in multicultural international teams.

Required Expertise in AI & Creative Technology

• In-depth understanding of AI-driven image generation and creative processes.
• Hands-on usage of AI tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Adobe Firefly, Midjourney, Runway, Kling, Flux, or equivalent platforms.
• Ability to utilize AI as a creative partner throughout the idea development, image generation, mood setting, storyboarding, and production stages.
• Strong commitment to shaping the future of photography and visual storytelling via innovation and technology.

Additional Advantages

• Experience in motion design and film art direction.
• Background in collaborating directly with automotive, industrial, or transportation design teams.
• Understanding of 3D visualization and generative design technologies.
• History of managing international productions and global campaigns.
• Familiarity with both Asian and European markets.

Additional Information

This position is based out of NIO GmbH, Montgelasstrasse 14, Munich, with the option to work from Shanghai as an alternative location. NIO operates globally and complies with European data protection standards when processing personal data internationally. Candidates are encouraged to submit their CV and English portfolio clearly indicating the job title.