Senior Manager, Technical Designer, Global Apparel 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, Fashion, Athletic WearIndustries

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Pattern Making, Textile Science or a related field (or suitable combination of education, experience, and training)
  • 10+ years' apparel development experience
  • Knowledge of the apparel development process from inception through production, including pattern making, grading, construction, costing, manufacturing, print techniques, embroidery, materials and machinery
  • Extensive experience in creating grades, reviewing graded nests, and correcting stretch to fit patterns (strongly preferred)
  • Extensive experience with construction methods for stretch fabric and performance garments (strongly preferred)
  • Ability to act as a technical resource, manage the team and lead initiatives through high energy and positive influence
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to excel in a deadline driven environment and bring things to resolution
  • Strong problem solving and decision-making skills with attention to detail and process orientation
  • Proven ability to lead, influence, and work across the organization
  • Experience managing a team (preferred)
  • Knowledge of MS Office programs and confident using Adobe Illustrator
  • Experience and working knowledge of CLO/Browzwear/Lotta or 3D apparel development software
  • Ability to travel 10% (domestic and international)
  • Strong leadership and coaching abilities, positive attitude and a team-oriented mentality

Responsibilities

  • Lead a team of specialized Technical Designers working on Women’s and Men’s Bodywear (leggings, bras, tight fit tops, base layers, and other stretch to fit apparel) across multiple Sports
  • Partner closely with Product Design, Graphic Design, Product Management, Product Creation Centres (Asia), Wear Testing, Materials and Product Integrity on all aspects of apparel creation
  • Guide the apparel creation process to ensure timely commercialization and best-in-class product
  • Own highly complex or high-profile products while managing the team (both a player and a coach)
  • Work closely with Design, Product Management, Sourcing, Materials, and Product Creation Centre (Asia) to deliver impeccable product driving superior craft, fit and function
  • Work on seasonal novelty with teams across the business including training, running and beyond
  • Obsess over pattern and grade while collaborating with Design, Product Management, and other cross-functional teams to meet product brief needs
  • Collaborate with many different teams across the organization, flexing to multiple team dynamics, processes, and business needs, and communicate unique needs of the product classification
  • Problem solve with peers and cross-functional partners throughout the development cycle on issues such as material, construction, fit, or pivoting to meet changing business needs
  • Consult with specialized teams including wear testing, standards, and the Nike Sports Research Lab to drive product excellence
  • Develop the team by mentoring in technical skills such as pattern and grade, as well as business acumen and soft skills

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Apparel DesignPattern MakingGradingStretch FabricsConstruction MethodsPerformance GarmentsTextile ScienceManufacturingPrint TechniquesEmbroideryCostingTeam ManagementLeadershipProblem Solving

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What education and experience are required for this role?

A Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Pattern Making, Textile Science or a related field is required, along with 10+ years of apparel development experience. Knowledge of the full apparel development process from inception through production is essential.

What key technical skills are needed for the Senior Manager, Technical Designer position?

Extensive experience in pattern making, grading, stretch to fit patterns, construction methods for stretch fabric and performance garments is strongly preferred. Proficiency in MS Office, Adobe Illustrator, and 3D apparel software like CLO/Browzwear/Lotta is required.

Is travel required in this role?

Yes, the role requires the ability to travel 10% of the time, including domestic and international travel.

What kind of team will I be leading and working with?

You will lead a team of specialized Technical Designers working on Women’s and Men’s Bodywear across multiple sports, partnering closely with Product Design, Graphic Design, Product Management, Product Creation Centres (Asia), Wear Testing, Materials, and Product Integrity.

What leadership qualities make a strong candidate for this position?

Strong leadership and coaching abilities, positive attitude, team-oriented mentality, excellent communication skills, problem-solving, and the ability to influence across the organization are key. Experience managing a team is preferred.

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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