Job Opportunity: Creative Director (Scenic, Experiential & Event Identity)

Company: Happily

Location: Remote Planning + On-Site Execution (National Harbor, MD)

Location Requirement: Must be local or within driving distance (approx. 1–1.5 hours max) to National Harbor, MD

Event Type: 3-Day Commencement Celebration Weekend

Position Type: Freelance / Project-Based Lead

Event Overview

Happily is producing a landmark three-day Commencement Celebration Weekend at a premier hotel venue in National Harbor, MD. This multi-faceted celebration includes a Staff Appreciation Gala, Graduate Festival, Student Awards Luncheon, Presidential Tea Ceremonies, Doctoral Hooding Ceremonies, Main Commencement Ceremonies, and interactive Foyer Family Fun Activities.

Role Overview

We are seeking a visionary Creative Director to lead all aesthetic, scenic, graphic, print, and fabrication initiatives for this multi-event weekend. Starting with the university’s core brand guidelines, colors, and initial themes, you will develop a comprehensive Event Identity System to bring the experience to life throughout the venue.

You will drive the creative vision from initial concept renderings to final on-site installation—guiding 3D modeling, floor plan layouts, graphic production, and on-site build-out to ensure a high-impact, cohesive aesthetic.

Key Responsibilities

* Event Identity System & Concept Design: Translate university brand assets and themes into a unified visual identity and spatial experience tailored to the hotel venue.

* 3D & Spatial Renderings: Produce detailed 3D model renderings, floor plan renderings, and spatial sketches to guide technical, art, and fabrication teams.

* Graphic Direction: Oversee and direct an assigned Graphic Designer to produce all digital, print, and signage collateral.

* Vendor & Fabrication Oversight: Manage and collaborate with print, scenic, and fabrication vendors to ensure all elements are constructed to specification.

* On-Site Installation Lead: On-site presence during setup and event days to supervise load-in, build-out, and final styling, ensuring execution matches the approved vision.

Qualifications & Requirements

* Location: Based within a 1 to 1.5-hour drive of National Harbor, MD for site visits and on-site execution.

* Experiential & Scenic Design Background: Proven track record leading creative direction for large-scale experiential, environmental, or live event productions.

* Technical Skills: Proficiency in 3D modeling/rendering software (e.g., SketchUp, Vectorworks, Rhino, Blender) and spatial layout tools.

* Team Leadership & Vendor Management: Strong leadership skills to direct designers and interface directly with fabrication and print vendors.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

1. A link to your portfolio showcasing prior work in experiential design, scenic design, spatial renderings, and event identity systems (**required**).

2. A brief overview of your experience overseeing fabrication, print, and on-site builds.

3. Confirmation of your proximity/location relative to National Harbor, MD.