Design Director

About the role

We are seeking a visionary Design Director to elevate our creative ecosystem through trend-forward thinking, inspiring leadership, and exceptional product storytelling. You'll guide our in-house design team across concept development, industrial design, trend forecasting, illustration, graphics, packaging, and production artwork—bringing our brands to life, captivating new audiences, and driving brand growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of brand narratives and seasonal storytelling across our portfolio, ensuring each brand maintains a distinctive voice while adhering to overarching standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate creative strategies with business goals.
• Cultivate a forward-thinking design approach by synthesizing insights from fashion, beauty, home design, sport/lifestyle, packaging, art, music, and digital media. Stay ahead of industry trends and leverage them to drive innovation.
• Guide the in-house design team across concept development, industrial design, trend forecasting, illustration, graphics, packaging, and production artwork—bringing our brands to life, captivating new audiences, and driving brand growth.
• Implement professional development programs to enhance team skills and performance.
• Drive the creation of compelling visual assets that elevate our brand identities across all consumer touchpoints. Ensure consistency and quality in all design outputs.
• Set clear goals and timelines for creative initiatives. Develop solutions to complex problems both within and across departments. Strategically plan and advocate for necessary resources.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all organizational levels and global locations. Foster collaboration and alignment across teams.

Requirements

• 10+ years of design and creative leadership experience across multiple categories for global lifestyle brands.
• Demonstrated ability to drive brand innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
• Proven leadership identity with 8+ years guiding, mentoring, and inspiring design teams. Track record of fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in design or related creative discipline. Advanced degree preferred.
• Ability to conceive, articulate, and implement innovative design strategies that propel brands forward. Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in design software including Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Microsoft Office, Smartsheet, and digital asset management tools. Expertise in utilizing design tools to create impactful visual content.
• Experience with AI-assisted design tools. Familiarity with emerging technologies and their application in design.
• Self-motivated collaborator who balances autonomy with team-first mentality. Ability to work independently while contributing to team success.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills—both verbal and visual. Ability to effectively convey ideas and concepts to diverse audiences.
• Superior time management abilities with a track record of meeting deadlines. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Cultural awareness and connection to contemporary trends across art, fashion, music, and digital landscapes. Ability to integrate cultural insights into design strategies.
• Innovative mindset that continually seeks improvement. Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Positive attitude and genuine sense of humor. Ability to maintain a positive work environment and build strong relationships.

Qualifications

• Comfortable developing high-concept creative visions and rolling up your sleeves to refine execution details.
• Balance creative excellence with business acumen, understanding how design drives consumer engagement and brand growth.
• Comfortable thriving in collaborative environments while maintaining the confidence to champion bold creative directions.

Skills

• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Expertise in utilizing design tools to create impactful visual content.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies and their application in design.
• Ability to integrate cultural insights into design strategies.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Genuine sense of humor.

Benefits

• Generous Medical, Dental, Vision and Other Great Benefits
• Paid parental and medical leave programs
• 401(k) with a company match component and profit sharing
• 15 days of paid time off plus company holidays
• Hybrid work model
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment assistance
• Inclusive employee resource groups