Design Director, Footwear

Job Description

Job Description

OVERVIEW:
Marc Jacobs International, powered by the creative genius of Marc Jacobs, seeks a Design Director to join the Footwear Design team based in its New York City (SoHo) headquarters. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT

• Direct shoe design team in creating product collections that embody the Marc Jacobs spirit.
• Work alongside the Creative Leadership to contribute innovative and highly creative ideas to enhance the design strategy.
• Shoe Design Direction across a range of price- point and distributions, and adapt creative approach accordingly: Runway, Mainline and Outlet collections.
• Foster a culture of innovation and experimentation to maximize creative potential.
• Develop impactful inspirational boards that guide and shape the seasonal design aesthetic.  
• Deliver critical solutions throughout the creative design and development lifecycle while adhering to the merchandising plan and development calendar.
• Forge synergistic alliances with cross category teams to create a unified collection.
• Select and review materials and trims, collaborating with Product Development and Materials teams.
• Serve as a key participant in all critical product meetings.

MANAGE DESIGN TEAM

• Guide and motivate the design team to develop original, solution-oriented products that capture the essence of the Marc Jacobs brand.
• Partner with Design Directors on other categories.
• Inspire creative thinking within the team and encourage the development of novel concepts that build upon the brand's defining products.
• Mentor, inspire, and develop the design team to achieve exceptional performance.
• Ensure the organization and archiving of development samples.

TECHNICAL DESIGN

• Sketch, spec, and precise handoff detailing for launches..
• Review and correct development samples to maintain comprehensive product knowledge, monitoring all modifications.
• Provide technical expertise for new constructions/lasts.
• Communicate technical information to factories for design goals and tech pack clarity.
• Develop detailed technical specifications using Adobe Illustrator for accurate tech packs.
• Provide technical feedback during line reviews for consistency.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges, collaborating with PD team.
• Recognize cost-effective engineering and material optimization opportunities.
• Maintain timely communication with factories.
• Organize AI and PDF files of sketches, artwork, color ups and tech packs in the archiving system.
• Develop and maintain Illustrator component libraries.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Art, Fashion Design, or other related field.
• 12+ years design experience with demonstrated success.
• 7+ years of team management.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in the accessories market, specializing in shoe design and development.
• Exhibit a refined eye for color, fashion, and product combined with a comprehensive awareness of current market trends.
• Possess a comprehensive understanding of the design and product development lifecycle.
• Demonstrate a strong aptitude for both design execution and conceptual design development.
• Proficient in organization, time management, and both written and verbal communication, with a proven ability to deliver engaging presentations.
• Candidate must possess a strong working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent taste level & brand awareness.

SALARY & BENEFITS/WHAT WE OFFER: 
The compensation for this position ranges from $190–$200K (annually). The rate of pay offered will be dependent upon candidate’s relevant skills and experience. In addition, we offer our employees a comprehensive benefits package including paid holidays, vacation time, sick and personal time, medical, dental and vision insurance, and 401k matching. We also offer discounts on travel, entertainment, and more through our partnership with PerkSpot. MJ employees also receive discounts on MJ products throughout the year, as well as access to discounts on other LVMH brands.

ABOUT MARC JACOBS
For nearly 40 years, Marc Jacobs has been a driving force in fashion with his philosophy: pioneering designs, an irreverent spirit, the everyday and the extraordinary. Today, the brand continues to make its Marc as rebellious, unpredictable, and original.
Our work is founded on our core brand pillars: unexpected, utilitarian, urban, unisex, and unique. NYC in design and spirit, our teams thrive off relentless authenticity, an openness to standing out, and inclusivity for all.

EEO STATEMENT
Marc Jacobs International was founded on Marc’s vision of celebrating uniqueness and being Perfect as You Are. We are committed to building an equitable and inclusive culture that values diversity of thought, background, and experience – all essential to our spirit of innovation and creativity. In line with this commitment, we believe that the best candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background or may meet the qualifications in different ways. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the listed qualifications.
Marc Jacobs International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.



 

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