Director, Licensed Accessories Product Design at Nike

Beaverton, Oregon, United States

Nike Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Apparel, Sportswear, FashionIndustries

Requirements

  • Bachelors degree or higher in design or related field (will accept any suitable combination of education, experience, and training)
  • 10+ years of experience in brand design and concept design, with at least 3 years in a leadership role
  • Strong understanding of brand systems, cultural storytelling, and consumer-led design
  • Deep knowledge of street fashion, art, culture, and sports as design drivers
  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills; ability to influence across functions and cultures
  • Experience managing external partners and navigating complex approval processes
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and 3D design tools; strong visual and technical design skills
  • A portfolio that demonstrates creative excellence, strategic thinking, and leadership impact
  • Visionary and collaborative mindset with an entrepreneurial spirit, strong point of view, passion for innovation, and ability to elevate design excellence through partnership

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design direction and seasonal design strategy for Nike Accessories licensee partners across multiple global markets
  • Build seasonal narratives, worlds, and end-in-mind ideas to host the product stories for consumers
  • Develop and deliver a Design Toolkit that empowers internal Sports Design teams and external licensee partners to create work that reflects Nike’s brand DNA
  • Translate Nike’s brand and concept design language into compelling collections that integrate street fashion, art, culture, and sports
  • Partner closely with internal category design, merchandising, and brand teams to ensure consistency and authenticity across all licensee work
  • Review and approve seasonal design proposals from licensee partners, providing actionable feedback and creative guidance
  • Drive innovation by identifying new materials, silhouettes, and design solutions that elevate the licensee portfolio
  • Proactively identify new opportunities and partnerships that expand Nike’s reach and influence in the accessories space
  • Mentor and develop a high-performing team of designers and cross-functional collaborators

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

brand designconcept designproduct designdesign leadershipbrand systemscultural storytellingconsumer-led designstreet fashionpresentation skillspartner management

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What education and experience are required for this role?

A Bachelor's degree or higher in design or related field is required, along with 10+ years of experience in brand design and concept design, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.

What key skills are needed for the Design Director position?

Candidates need a strong understanding of brand systems, cultural storytelling, and consumer-led design; deep knowledge of street fashion, art, culture, and sports; exceptional communication and presentation skills; experience managing external partners; and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and 3D design tools.

Who will I report to and work with in this role?

You will be part of the design leadership team reporting to the Accessories Creative Director, working with peers to shape Nike Accessories, connecting with external license partners, and building networks across all sports teams.

What does the company look for in the ideal candidate?

Nike seeks a visionary and collaborative Design Director who is a strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial spirit, a strong point of view, passion for innovation, and a proven ability to elevate design excellence through partnerships, demonstrated by a portfolio showing creative excellence, strategic thinking, and leadership impact.

Is this a remote position or does it require office work?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Nike

Designs and sells athletic footwear and apparel

About Nike

Nike designs, manufactures, and sells a variety of footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories aimed at athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and everyday consumers. Their products are created to be stylish and performance-oriented, catering to the needs of a diverse clientele. Nike operates through multiple sales channels, including retail stores, online platforms, and third-party retailers, and enhances its brand image through endorsements from well-known athletes and sports teams. A key aspect of Nike's approach is its membership program, which offers exclusive access to products and content, fostering a deeper connection with consumers. Unlike many competitors, Nike places a strong emphasis on sustainability and corporate responsibility, integrating these values into its operations and product development. The company's goal is to continue growing by creating products that resonate with consumers while promoting positive social and environmental impact.

Beaverton, OregonHeadquarters
1964Year Founded
IPOCompany Stage
Consumer Software, Social Impact, Consumer GoodsIndustries
10,001+Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Remote Work Options
Flexible Work Hours

Risks

Emerging sportswear brands increase competition through digital marketing and direct sales.
Rising raw material costs could impact Nike's profit margins.
Consumer backlash over labor practices could harm Nike's brand reputation.

Differentiation

Nike integrates electronics into footwear for active recovery, enhancing product innovation.
The company capitalizes on retro designs, appealing to nostalgic consumers.
Nike's strong brand loyalty is bolstered by high-profile athlete endorsements.

Upsides

Nike's partnership with Oaklands Wolves boosts brand visibility among younger demographics.
Significant investments indicate strong investor confidence in Nike's growth prospects.
Nike's recognition as a socially responsible stock appeals to environmentally conscious investors.

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