Designer, Footwear (Vince Camuto)

Designer Brands • New York, NY

2d

About The Position

Designer Brands is hiring a Designer, Footwear for the Vince Camuto brand. The designer translates brand direction, trend insights, consumer research, and market opportunities into original, commercially relevant footwear concepts. The role contributes to seasonal product strategy and influences products from initial concept through commercialization, balancing creative design with consumer needs and business objectives.

The designer develops sketches, illustrations, technical drawings, CADs, digital renderings, specifications, tech packs, and other product-development documentation. They manage multiple projects, review prototypes and samples, incorporate approved changes, and work with production partners to meet pricing, quality, positioning, and seasonal deadlines. The position also collaborates with domestic and overseas cross-functional partners and may coach one or two Assistant Designers when applicable. Domestic or international travel may be needed.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of related footwear design experience.
• Experience creating technical drawings, tech packs, CADs, and merchandising boards.
• Ability to use market research, trend forecasting, and industry insights to contribute to design strategy and seasonal development.
• Ability to sketch, create CADs, and apply foundational design principles to footwear concepts.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and functions.
• Strong organizational, prioritization, and time-management skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Professional and customer-focused approach to partnership and communication.
• Bachelor's degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience, in Footwear Design, Fashion Design, Industrial Design, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Translate seasonal brand direction, trend insights, consumer research, and market opportunities into innovative footwear concepts.
• Research trends, materials, colors, and consumer preferences to inform design decisions.
• Partner with the Design Director to select and apply materials, colors, and finishes across seasonal product lines.
• Create original product concepts aligned with brand identity and business objectives.
• Develop illustrations, technical drawings, CADs, and digital renderings using Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Create and maintain design specifications, tech packs, and development documentation.
• Ensure design assets and digital templates are completed accurately and follow established guidelines.
• Update technical documentation to reflect approved design revisions and product changes.
• Manage multiple design projects from initial concept through finalized product.
• Review prototypes and samples, providing timely feedback and design updates.
• Partner with production teams to deliver products that meet target pricing, quality expectations, and market positioning.
• Proactively manage project needs and timelines to meet milestones and seasonal deadlines.
• Work with overseas development partners, including leather and fabric teams, throughout product development.
• Collaborate with design, production, merchandising, and sales partners to bring products to market.
• Present design concepts, product stories, and seasonal developments clearly and confidently.
• Support cross-functional teams to help ensure a successful season.
• Coach and guide one or two Assistant Designers when applicable.
• Travel domestically or internationally as needed for trade shows, sourcing activities, and other industry events.

Benefits

• Free virtual health care.
• Family and fertility benefits.
• 401(k) with matching.
• Hybrid and remote work opportunities.
• Training programs, professional development, and education assistance.
• 30% discount at DSW and DSW.com, plus discounts across the company's family of brands.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior