The North Face:
Apparel Design Director, Creative Services Job in Alameda, VT

The Apparel Design Director, Creative Services will be an exceptionally creative individual with a global mindset. They will be responsible for concept, material, trim, and color/print trends as well as the process for print, logo, and graphic collateral from concept to production. The Design Director, Creative Services will develop ideas, and coordinate closely with the Global VP and cross functional departments to ensure a proper vision. They present design concepts and creative content with a global mindset. They will manage a team of creative professionals to meet project goals. They delegate tasks, hold regular status meetings working closely with Global VP to track progress, and analyze the project throughout the development process.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for global concept, material, trim, and color/print trends as well as the process and calendar for print, logo, and graphic collateral from concept to production.
Responsible for staying current on global industry trends and successfully integrating trends within the framework of The North Face Brand DNA.
Manage Creative Services team around brand relevant seasonal trend POV for the following: color, materials, trim, logo, graphic, print and innovation.
Build partnerships with cross functional teams (materials, product development, sourcing) to ensure concepts are commercialize under specific seasonal timelines.
Build tiering strategy for all concept, material, trim, and color/print that aligns with global business needs.
Manage departmental budget and ensure timelines are followed.
Manage the selection, training and development of Creative Services design staff.
Supervise staff and give technical direction to achieve seasonal concepts.
Oversee day-to-day production of design projects and program activities.
Analyze success of special projects and develop procedural or product changes as necessary.
Able to effectively and efficiently work cross functionally over all categories; apparel, outerwear, equipment, and footwear.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS
12+ years of related professional experience including managing a diverse team.
Bachelors degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Relevant certifications preferred.
Demonstrated ability to work with a team and must have a track record in executing tasks/projects.
Computer/Software Applications: Adobe suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint), Keynote, Macintosh OS. Experience using 3D design applications a plus.
Demonstrated ability to create and execute highly successful product lines with an entrepreneurial spirit.
Thorough understanding of the sales process and be able to adapt to it to increase productivity and profitability.
Capable of driving short term, long term, and complex projects.
Strong interpersonal skills to engage with internal staff and develop strong business relationships.
Collaborative partner with team oriented approach.
Solid communication and presentation skills.
Understand how to motivate and develop diverse personalities/ talent.
Embrace change and react with speed and agility.
Flexible and creative problem solver.
Personal professionalism and accountability.
Have extensive experience managing and estimating personal time outlays for each project.
Requires advanced skills and experience in visual design and awareness of current technologies.
Overall understanding of the outdoor market, the competition landscape and a participatory knowledge of the represented sports is helpful.
Possess a strong graphic design portfolio.
Demonstrated ability to work in fast-paced, deadline-oriented environments.
Travel required: 5%