Vans · 5 hours ago
Vans: Senior Design Manager, Pinnacle Footwear
Costa Mesa, CA
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$138K/yr - $173K/yr
8+ years expVans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. As a Senior Design Manager, Pinnacle Footwear, you will lead the design development of innovative footwear collections, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with the brand's vision and market relevance.
ApparelE-CommerceFashionLifestyleManufacturingRetailShoesSporting GoodsSports
Responsibilities
Drive the design development of Pinnacle Footwear collections in alignment with seasonal concepts, brand vision, and cultural leadership
Conduct trend, consumer, and business analysis to inform design strategies and ensure market relevance within the premium footwear segment
Lead the creation of innovative footwear concepts, sketches, and design specifications, ensuring technical feasibility and brand-right execution
Oversee material selection, color allocation, and development of finishes, managing sample reviews and final approvals for premium products
Inspire, coach, and motivate the Footwear Design team through seasonal collections and special projects, fostering creative excellence
Implement sustainable design practices and process efficiencies through effective calendar management and tool optimization
Cultivate a collaborative and innovative environment that champions creativity, progression, and cross-functional alignment
Partner with global and regional teams (Merchandising, Product Development, Technical Design, Consumer Insights, etc.) to drive the GTM pipeline for Pinnacle Footwear
Manage the end-to-end design process from pre-season research and concept development through cost-engineering and bulk approvals
Ensure clear communication and alignment across all stakeholders involved in the product lifecycle to deliver premium, brand-right collections
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Footwear Design, Industrial Design, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Minimum 3–5 years of leadership experience managing and developing design teams, with a proven ability to coach, mentor, and elevate creative talent
Proficiency in design software and tools (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, 3D modeling tools, PLM systems) with the ability to leverage technology for innovation and efficiency
Ability to translate consumer insights, trend research, and brand vision into innovative, premium footwear concepts that drive category leadership
Demonstrated ability to set clear design direction and lead multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment, ensuring priorities and deadlines are achieved through strategic calendar and process management
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the capability to integrate creative vision, technical feasibility, and commercial goals
Expertise in footwear construction, materials, lasts, and manufacturing processes, including cost-engineering considerations to balance creativity and business objectives
Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills, with the ability to lead, influence, and align global cross-functional teams toward shared strategic objectives
Proven ability to lead strategic alignment and decision-making across Merchandising, Development, and Planning teams, driving consensus and influencing outcomes to achieve shared business and creative goals
Benefits
Medical
Dental
Vision
401(k)
Company
Vans
Vans.com manufactures shoes, apparel, and other products for action sports. It is a sub-organization of VF.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
unknown2004-04-28Acquired
Leadership Team
Solána Imani Rowe
Artistic Director
Recent News
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