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Vans · 4 days ago

Vans: Design Manager, Men's Apparel

Costa Mesa, CA

Full-time

Hybrid

Senior Level

$111K/yr - $138K/yr

7+ years exp

Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding, and they are seeking a Design Manager for Men’s Apparel to create innovative collections. The role involves collaborating with cross-functional partners to deliver seasonal assortments that reflect the brand's vision and cultural leadership.

ApparelE-CommerceFashionLifestyleManufacturingRetailShoesSporting GoodsSports

Responsibilities

Drive the design development of Men’s apparel assortments in line with seasonal concepts and brand vision

Conduct trend and business analysis to inform design decisions and ensure market relevance

Create sketches, initial tech packs, fit direction, and oversee fabric selection and development

Allocate colors, develop washes and finishes, and manage sample and bulk approvals

Lead and motivate the Men’s Apparel Design team through seasonal collections and special projects

Establish sustainable work practices through calendar management, process efficiency, and tool improvements

Foster a collaborative and innovative environment that encourages creativity and progression

Proactively collaborate with Women’s and Accessories Design partners to deliver a shared vision of the brand

Possess a high level of taste and demonstrate an understanding of relevant market and aspirational brands, using those references as inputs to deliver toward Vans’ unique vision

Partner with regional and global cross-functional teams (Merchandising, Product Development, Technical Design, Consumer Insights, etc.) to drive the GTM collection pipeline and act as an objective cross-functional partner, committed to strong relationships and prioritizing collaboration

Oversee the process from pre-season research and development through design, cost-engineering, and bulk approvals

Ensure alignment and effective communication across all teams involved in the product lifecycle

Qualification

Fashion DesignGarment ConstructionDesign Software ProficiencyAnalytical SkillsLeadership SkillsInterpersonal SkillsPresentation SkillsCollaboration Skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

7-9 years of experience and professional achievements

Ability to translate insights and inspiration into compelling apparel concepts that align with brand strategy

Strong leadership skills with experience coaching, mentoring, and developing design talent

Ability to set clear design direction and lead multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, ensuring priorities are met and deadlines achieved through effective calendar and process management

Expertise in garment construction, fabrics, and manufacturing processes

Proficiency in design software and tools (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Figma, PLM)

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on balancing creativity and business needs

Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and align cross-functional teams globally

Proven ability to foster collaboration and guide decision-making with Merchandising, Development and Planning to achieve shared goals

Location requirement: Hybrid schedule in-office in Costa Mesa, CA