Lead Designer, Running Footwear Materials Design Create & Expression 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, Footwear, SportswearIndustries

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Design, Art, or a related field such as Fashion Design, Product Design, Industrial Design, Accessory and Footwear Design, or Textile Design (alternatively, a Master’s degree in one of these areas); will accept any suitable combination of education, experience, and training
  • Ideally 4+ years of relevant design experience, demonstrating the ability to push the boundaries of material design and/or proven expertise in Textile Design or Footwear Design
  • Ability to translate consumer insights into compelling narratives and product executions
  • Strong capability to leverage manufacturing processes to elevate new ideas, techniques, and materials
  • Experience building 3D samples and crafting mockups by hand
  • Highly organized, self-sufficient, and motivated, with a passion for leading teams
  • Proven experience collaborating and communicating with manufacturing partners to ensure design intent and material execution accuracy
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite programs, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
  • Ability to manage and contribute to multiple seasonal projects within tight timelines and limited resources
  • A strong understanding of the Footwear Product Creation process (preferred)
  • An active, engaged contributor in both the creative process and cross-functional communication
  • Confident in presenting and articulating design concepts to internal and external audiences
  • Skilled in collaboration and cross-functional teamwork with key partners
  • A deep passion for sport culture and the categories in which you design
  • Strong passion for advancing Nike’s purpose-driven initiatives around sustainability and people

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate closely with teams across Nike Footwear Industrial Design, Color Design, Graphic Design, Digital Design, Marketing, and Development to bring the seasonal creative direction to life through innovative Footwear Materials Design
  • Drive material design expressions as well as new creations
  • Develop technically complex material designs using the latest innovations
  • Curate and elevate existing materials for refresh and collection models
  • Work across the entire process, from concepting and ideation to finalizing tech packs
  • Collaborate closely with manufacturing partners
  • Directly engage with athletes at times
  • Focus on enhancing the consumer experience through materials that balance performance and trend relevance across a range of Running products
  • Foster a deep emotional connection through compelling storytelling and narrative

Skills

Footwear Materials Design
Textile Design
Industrial Design
Product Design
Color Design
Graphic Design
Material Innovation
Sustainability
Consumer Insights
Manufacturing Processes

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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