Design Director, Performance Apparel & Innovation

Nike Inc; Beaverton (OR); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Kobe Apparel seeks an Apparel Design Director to lead a nimble design team, shaping the future of Kobe Apparel with athlete-informed, performance-driven products.

From concept to execution, you will drive research, concept development, sketching, mood boards, materials direction, and prototype refinement, partnering with design, product management and development. The role requires 8+ years of experience, masterful Adobe Illustrator and Creative Suite skills, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Apparel/Fashion Design or related field.
• 8+ years of relevant design experience with materials, trims, design and fit.
• Strong knowledge of design, art and fashion; passion for sport and youth culture.
• Proficiency in hand drawing, Illustrator and layout; strong visual presentation.
• Understanding of garment construction, textiles and trims.
• Ability to build design worlds, mood boards and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of athlete-informed performance apparel for Kobe Basketball.
• Translate consumer and athlete insights into innovative product concepts and narratives.
• Drive end-to-end design process from research through prototype refinement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners across design, product management and development.
• Mentor and guide other designers to achieve creative excellence and product innovation.

Skills

Apparel design leadership

Concept ideation

Team mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Fashion knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Apparel/Fashion Design

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

Kobe Apparel seeks an Apparel Design Director to lead a nimble design team, shaping the future of Kobe Apparel with athlete-informed, performance-driven products.

From concept to execution, you will drive research, concept development, sketching, mood boards, materials direction, and prototype refinement, partnering with design, product management and development. The role requires 8+ years of experience, masterful Adobe Illustrator and Creative Suite skills, and strong leadership.