For the real Don/na Drapers in our industry…

This is the summary of traits on what makes a great Creative Director (or Executive Creative Director or Chief Creative Officer).

I’ve summarized its main points for a quick read:

The creative director is the last line of defense.
The creative director doesn’t play politics with creatives.
The creative director gives specific feedback.
The creative director is well-versed in all crafts.
The creative director is a selfless creative.
The creative director is not your best buddy.
The creative director knows the latest trends.
The creative director will hire great creatives.
The creative director is well-read.
The creative director produces work.
The creative director knows every creative brief intimately.
The creative director is an idea catalyst.
The creative director has a broad range of experience.
The creative director steers the whole ship in the right direction.
The creative director understands strategy and planning.
The creative director is a shepherd.
The creative director can sell or present anything, and do it well.
The creative director has balls.
The creative director knows how to motivate.
The creative director wants honest opinions, not nodding dogs.
The creative director doesn’t play the second-guessing game.
The creative director doesn’t care about being popular.
The creative director doesn’t micromanage.

The unabridged article is split into two parts, Part 1 and Part 2, written by Felix Unger – a site contributor, ranter and curmudgeon for The Denver Egotist.