Designer, Footwear (Vince Camuto)

Designer Brands Inc.•New York, NY

About The Position

Designer Brands is hiring a footwear designer for the Vince Camuto brand. The designer will translate brand vision, seasonal direction, trend insights, consumer research, and market opportunities into innovative, commercially relevant footwear concepts. The role influences product direction from concept through commercialization and works with cross-functional teams, including global partners, to develop seasonal products. The designer creates illustrations, technical drawings, CADs, digital renderings, specifications, tech packs, merchandising boards, and development documentation. They manage multiple projects, review prototypes and samples, update design documentation, and collaborate with production to meet pricing, quality, and market-positioning expectations. The position may include coaching one or two Assistant Designers when applicable and travel for trade shows, sourcing, and other industry events as 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 and 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, 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, trends, consumer research, and market opportunities into 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 accurate and follow established guidelines.
Update technical documentation to reflect approved design revisions and product changes.
Manage multiple design projects from concept through finalized product.
Review prototypes and samples and provide timely feedback and design updates.
Partner with production teams to 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 match.
Hybrid and remote work opportunities.
Training programs.
Professional development.
Education assistance.
30% discount at DSW and DSW.com, plus discounts across the company's family of brands.

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