Creative Director of Photography & Video

Vandelay Hospitality Group Creative Director, Video and PhotographyAbout Vandelay Hospitality GroupFor over a decade, Vandelay Hospitality Group has defined what it means to deliver iconic, enduring hospitality experiences. With a growing portfolio of distinctive brands and markets nationwide, we are driven by a passion for craftsmanship, connection, and the pursuit of excellence. Every Vandelay concept celebrates the spirit of American dining: timeless spaces, genuine warmth, and an uncompromising commitment to quality that leaves a lasting impression on every guest who walks through our doors.About the Opportunity*PLEASE NOTE: This role is based in Dallas, TX. Candidates must be open to relocating to the Dallas market.We are seeking a Creative Director of Photography & Video to lead the visual storytelling across Vandelay’s dynamic portfolio of hospitality brands. This is a hands-on creative leadership role for a visual storyteller who can both produce a high volume of content personally and scale production through external collaborators when needed.Equal parts visual director and hands-on maker, this role is responsible for capturing, crafting, and elevating the visual language of each concept by ensuring content feels authentic, culturally relevant, and aligned with each brand’s ethos. With a strong focus on social-first content, they will capture photography and video that creates a compelling narrative, resonates both locally and nationally, and sets Vandelay ahead in a competitive lifestyle and F&B landscape.Core Responsibilities Hands-On Content CreationPersonally produce a high volume of original photo and video content (short-form video, still photography, social assets) for use across Instagram, TikTok, and emerging platformsCapture food, beverage, interiors, guest experience, lifestyle moments, and behind-the-scenes storytelling with a refined, brand-appropriate aestheticEdit and deliver platform-optimized content with speed, consistency, and attention to detailCreative Direction & Visual StorytellingTranslate brand positioning and ethos into compelling visual narratives that resonate emotionally and culturallyPartner with marketing, operations, culinary, and design teams to ensure visuals align with broader brand initiativesTake an active role in the development of the social editorial calendar, balancing brand consistency with trend responsivenessSocial-First Strategy & Trend FluencyMaintain a strong working knowledge of social media platforms, formats, and trends, with a particular focus on short-form videoCreate content that feels native to each platform while maintaining brand integrityAnticipate shifts in visual trends, storytelling styles, and audience behavior to keep Vandelay culturally relevantScaled Production & Vendor ManagementIdentify when projects require expanded production and source, brief, and manage external photographers, videographers, talent, and crewsEnsure any externally produced work meets Vandelay’s creative standards and brand expectationsCampaign & Launch SupportSupport new restaurant openings, seasonal launches, and brand campaigns with visually compelling contentBalance fast-turn, day-to-day social content with higher-concept creative momentsSet KPIs, track performance, and leverage analytics to optimize content, inform strategy, and grow platform impactRequirements 5-8+ years of experience in photography, video production, or creative direction, ideally within high-end hospitality, lifestyle, fashion, or consumer brandsA strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on photography and video creation, especially social-first and short-form contentProven ability to both execute independently and direct othersExceptional verbal and written communication skills across creative and operational teamsUnderstanding of content creation, paid/organic strategy, community management, and platform nuancesAbility to thrive in a high energy, in person work environment (Monday through Friday with flexibility for evenings/weekends)PerksMedical, Dental and Vision benefits availablePaid Time OffDining discounts at all Vandelay Hospitality Group conceptsProfessional development and career growthAll Vandelay Hospitality Group restaurants are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and the 4th of July so our team can celebrate with their friends and familyAre you interested in this opportunity? Apply online at the Vandelay Hospitality Group website or LinkedIn, or submit your resume and portfolio to Vandelay Hospitality Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.