Design Manager, Toy Product Innovation

Mattel, Inc.; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Mattel, Inc. is seeking a Barbie Design Manager to lead and inspire the Global Product Design team. You will translate consumer insights, trends and new technologies into innovative toy concepts across Barbie categories, guiding projects from concept through execution.

You will mentor designers, foster collaboration, and partner with Marketing, Engineering, Packaging and Product Management to ensure design excellence and strategic alignment in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications

• 7 years+ of cross‑functional experience in product development.
• Able to embrace, interpret and re‑tell long‑loved stories through toy; brand ambassador for Mattel/Disney.
• Collaborative and communicative team player who oversees projects and processes cross‑functionally.
• Self‑directed problem‑solver—proactive in tackling new challenges and uncertainty.
• Structured thinker capable of developing frameworks to support strategic decisions.
• Up‑to‑date with trends in the toy space and adjacent industries.
• Strong negotiation and relationship‑building skills.
• Self‑motivated and able to manage multiple parallel‑path projects.
• Passion for making great product.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the product design team across multiple categories, guiding development of innovative toy concepts.
• Provide creative leadership by translating consumer insights and trends into compelling product experiences.
• Oversee design process from concept through execution, ensuring alignment with brand strategy and business goals.
• Mentor designers, fostering collaboration and design excellence while balancing hands‑on direction with team leadership.
• Partner with Marketing, Engineering, Packaging and Product Management to drive alignment and deliver successful products.

Job description

Mattel, Inc. is seeking a Barbie Design Manager to lead and inspire the Global Product Design team. You will translate consumer insights, trends and new technologies into innovative toy concepts across Barbie categories, guiding projects from concept through execution.

You will mentor designers, foster collaboration, and partner with Marketing, Engineering, Packaging and Product Management to ensure design excellence and strategic alignment in a fast‑paced environment.