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

The Apparel Print Design Manager, Creative Services will be an exceptionally creative individual with a global mindset. They are responsible for concepting and executing global print direction for The North Face on a seasonal basis. This role will partner with the Director of Global Color to build a comprehensive print and color palette that aligns with both the business needs for delivery and the seasonal brand vision. This position manages and mentors a team of print designers and is responsible for ensuring high-quality execution of print designs across the brand. Under the Direction of the Creative services director, this role will serve to influence and align product designers toward a seasonal vision as it is expressed through prints.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for concepting and executing global print direction for The North Face on a seasonal basis.
Responsible for staying current on print art and execution trends and successfully integrate trends within the framework of The North Face Brand DNA.
Partner with Director of Global Color to build comprehensive print and color palette by delivery.
Partner with Creative Directors and Design Directors to build territory and category specific iterations of seasonal vision. Createand lead print merchandising strategies and stories seasonally.
Initiate and lead cross-functional meetings to gain buy-in and approval on seasonal print palette.
Responsible for team of print designers and ensuring high-quality execution of print designs across the brand.
Build partnerships with cross functional teams (materials, product development, sourcing) to ensure print concepts are commercialize under specific seasonal timelines.
Able to effectively and efficiently work cross functionally over all categories; performance apparel, sportswear apparel, outerwear, equipment, and footwear.
Provide print usage concepts to enable design to fully express seasonal creative vision.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS
8 - 10 years of related professional experience.
Bachelor's Degree in Studio Arts, Textile Design, Graphic Design or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Expertise in Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign.
Experience and expertise in the creation of repeat patterns and mill sheets.
Experience in designing successful print collections.
Experience if leading a team and working cross functionally with color, merchandise and design.
Experience in managing complete print cycles from inspiration through production.
Strong knowledge and understanding of print and textile design.
Strong knowledge of formulating color palettes.
Excellent communications skills, including the ability to present concepts to product teams and review boards in a persuasive manner, and communicate responsibilities and timelines to designers on team.
Strong knowledge of print calendar and milestones.
Strong understanding of designing for market, trend, and end uses.
Strong knowledge of art history and graphic design principals.
Strong knowledge of fabrications and their relation to the print production processes.
Basic knowledge of textile and material construction and properties.
Travel required: 10%