Graphic Design Manager

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

We are looking for an exceptional Graphic Design Storyteller for the Kids Tee Center of Excellence (COE) with proven design excellence, curiosity, problem solving tenacity, and a passion for making those around them better. This designer will play a key role in authoring powerful narratives that inspire athletes, franchises, and fans worldwide. They thrive in ambiguity, are driven by curiosity and lead with optimism. Their creative talent is equaled by their ability to think strategically and consciously champion ground-breaking thinking and the thinking of their teammates. They play a key role in the conceptualization, design, and development of kids tee shirt graphics and branding elements. These designers have an affinity for world-building and storytelling through tee design, integrating narrative elements that resonate with kids age 8-13. This designer also plays a key role in the mentoring and development of a Sr. Designer, fostering their growth and skills within the design team and Nike Design community.

WHAT WILL YOU WORK ON?

As the Tee Manager, you will work under the guidance of the Sr. Design Director to translate the product vision into reality across all kids tees. The role also involves managing a direct report, timelines, collaborating with external partners, and navigating from concept to execution. You’ll work closely with your design team, external collaborators and cross-functional category teams to create the highest expressions of Nike product design. This opportunity is both ambitious and rewarding, with a broad range of responsibilities that span from ideation to external partner management. You will provide prototype sampling and tech pack information, including fabrication, trim, color, graphic applications, style, detail, fit requirements and construction details. You will scrutinize and iterate prototypes to ensure the best expression of your design intent as it represents best in class tee shirt expertise.

WHO WILL YOU WORK WITH?

You will collaborate both internally and externally with multiple cross-functional teams, including Apparel Design, Footwear Design, Product Management, and Development teams. Together, you will bring the collection’s creative direction to life through innovative product graphic design. In addition, you will manage a senior graphic designer.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING?

• TO BE CONSIDERED, YOU MUST SUBMIT A CREATIVE DESIGN PORTFOLIO. PLEASE PROVIDE WEBSITE LINKS OR ATTACH PDF FILES WHEN YOU APPLY.
• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or related field or equivalent combination of education, experience, or training.
• 8+ years’ experience of graphic design, preferably in product (footwear and apparel) creation in-house or at an agency.
• Positive energy and team-oriented mindset.
• Master visual and verbal communication skills, able to effectively present design intent to internal and external audiences.
• Passion and understanding of current and emerging design trends, as well as visual culture.
• Ability to translate consumer knowledge and insights into product solutions and narratives.
• Strong sketching, illustration, and rendering skills.
• Strong Adobe CC skills (Illustrator & Photoshop) and comfortable working within new digital spaces.
• Passion for fashion, design craft, innovation, graphic applications, prints, processes and tools.
• 3D design program experience, ability to concept/design in 3d spaces.
• Strong illustration, typography, brand identity, and color theory skills and digital media.
• Knowledge of repeat pattern creation, printing techniques specific to textiles, understanding how designs will translate from digital to physical.
• Knowledge of product creation and basic knowledge of garment/footwear construction.
• Must be able to build accurate 2D technical drawings (tech packs).
• Contribute and align to shared team culture and behaviors.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and job applicants. We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form.