Vans: Senior Director, Footwear Design

Job Overview

Senior Director, Footwear Design – responsible for leading the seasonal footwear design vision, managing a team of designers, translating brand strategy into creative, commercially viable collections, and ensuring brand integrity across footwear categories.
Responsibilities

Lead the seasonal footwear design vision by translating brand strategy into innovative, consumer‑relevant collections.
Drive concept development and execution of new models, technologies, and advanced materials.
Oversee creation of high‑quality design packages, including sketches, tech specs, colorways and presentation tools.
Manage and mentor a team of designers, fostering creativity, collaboration and accountability.
Ensure brand integrity and consistency across all footwear categories through design language, trims and storytelling.
Partner cross‑functionally with Product Merchants, Development, Sourcing and Costing teams to align on briefs and meet margin requirements.
Monitor and optimize the design process to meet KPIs including gross margin, complexity and timely delivery.
Collaborate with other design leaders to maintain cohesive seasonal direction and share best practices.
Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Footwear Design, Product Design or a related field.
12+ years of footwear design experience, including strategic leadership and team management.
Proven footwear design expertise with deep knowledge of materials, construction techniques and manufacturing processes.
Strong trend awareness and ability to translate consumer insights and cultural movements into compelling design solutions.
Technical proficiency in design tools and platforms (Adobe Creative Suite, PLM systems).
Cross‑functional collaboration skills with Product Merchants, Development, Sourcing and Costing teams.
Business acumen regarding costing, target margins and commercial viability.
Mentorship and team development experience to inspire creativity and growth.
Strong presentation and storytelling skills for internal and external audiences.
Experience managing complex design calendars and driving process improvements.
Preferred: Experience working with global brands, advanced concepts, emerging technologies and sustainable design practices.
Location

Hybrid schedule, in‑office in Costa Mesa, CA.
Compensation & Benefits

Hiring Range: $221,011.20 – $276,264.00 USD annually. Additional compensation includes incentive and long‑term incentive plans. Benefits include medical, dental, vision and 401(k) plans, and a strong overall benefits package.
EEO Statement

At VF, we value a diverse and inclusive workforce and provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected category. The organization will provide accommodations as required.

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