Principal Designer, Apparel - HOKA Innovation

About the Role

As Principal Designer, Apparel – HOKA Innovation, the role holder drives the creative exploration of what is next in performance apparel, translating athlete and consumer insights into innovative concepts and technologies. The position collaborates with elite athletes, engineers, sports scientists and developers to shape breakthrough solutions that transform athlete experiences and push the boundaries of performance product. Reporting to the Senior Director, Design – HOKA Innovation, the role contributes to HOKA's global design strategy and seasonal direction.
Key Responsibilities

Design and engineer future performance apparel that blends innovation, athlete needs and HOKA's design DNA.
Manage and drive innovation projects aligned to the HOKA innovation strategy, roadmap and calendar.
Develop and refine accurate 2D and 3D design techpacks, renderings and compelling product storytelling.
Collaborate with elite athletes and the HOKA sports science and testing team to test, iterate and refine products.
Translate athlete and consumer insights into advanced concepts and radical product solutions.
Explore new materials, constructions and aesthetics that bring meaningful newness to performance product.
Travel with the team on design, development and inspiration trips to factories, tradeshows and athlete events.
Contribute to HOKA global design strategy and seasonal direction, shaping progressive performance narratives.
Required Experience & Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in apparel, footwear, industrial or transportation design, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
8–10+ years of related performance apparel design experience.
Ability to lead by example, set a high creative standard and inspire teammates through collaboration and constructive feedback.
Confidence working fast, generating provocative ideas and visualising radical new concepts.
Ability to balance creativity and high design with technical manufacturing possibilities and constraints.
Strong written and verbal communication, collaboration, ideation and brainstorming skills.
Mastery of advanced digital AI co-creation design tools (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Figma, Rhino, Grasshopper, Blender, Clo, Keyshot, Gravity Sketch, Vizcom, Midjourney, Claude) and proficiency in Microsoft applications.
Ability to self-start, tinker, build and prototype early concepts into tangible mockups and samples.
Advanced design thinking, creativity and a strategic approach, translating ambiguity into clear design direction.
Expertise in technical performance apparel, including materials, construction, fit, sustainability and advanced manufacturing.
Deep care and understanding of sustainability and circularity concepts and practices.
Ability to manage complex projects, meetings, timelines and competing priorities with organisation and attention to detail.
Ability to build and maintain a strong creative vision across projects and the wider industry landscape.
Ability to partner effectively with internal and external teams, including consumer insights, athlete science, design, testing, development, engineering and agency partners.
Ability to create compelling narratives, presentations and design stories for senior leadership and cross-functional partners.
Preferred Skills

1–3+ years of people management experience.
Workplace

Hybrid working arrangement, typically three times per week in office, Tuesday to Thursday.
Salary

US$137,500 – US$185,600 per year, Portland, Oregon.
Individual pay is determined by location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
Benefits & Perks

Competitive pay and bonuses: a variety of competitive compensation programmes designed to foster career development, reward success and show employees they are valued.
Financial planning and wellbeing: plans that provide ways to protect income, pay for expenses and invest in the future.
Time away from work: plans supporting employees' needs to spend time with family, focus on health or recharge.
Extras, discounts and perks: generous discounts and community-based programmes.
Growth and development: extensive opportunities and support for personal and professional development.
Health and wellness: comprehensive health and wellness programmes and offerings supporting a healthy lifestyle at work and at play.
About the Company

Deckers Brands states that Together, Every Step is a promise kept that every employee can bring their authentic self and is valued and supported as a whole person, at work and beyond. The company says this is how it continues to deliver exceptional business results, experience an amazing place to work, and have a positive impact on the communities and world around it. Deckers Brands celebrates diversity of background, experience and unique identity, and is committed to an inclusive and equitable workplace where all employees can Come as They Are and are Better Together.

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