Vans: Director, Design, Women & Kids Lifestyle Footwear

Vans•Costa Mesa, CA

25d

About The Position

Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live “Off The Wall” – embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. Yesterday’s “Off The Wall” moment is today’s new normal, and at Vans, we believe in constantly outdoing ourselves. Together with our communities across the globe, our vision is to push culture forward because we believe that the pursuit of progression never ends. We are constantly inspired by the future generation of positive catalysts within our community. So, before we get to the job details, take a minute to learn a little more about us – our values and our culture. If you can see yourself working side-by-side with a team of people who think and live “Off the Wall,” Vans just may be the place for you. To learn more about our values and our culture, visit Vans Careers or www.vans.com . What will you do? As the Director of Women’s and Kids Lifestyle Footwear Design at Vans, you will lead with vision, creativity, and purpose—driving the next evolution of style, function, and cultural relevance. In this leadership role, you’ll define the design direction for our Women’s and Kids categories, shaping products that speak to emerging trends, diverse communities, and new generations of Vans fans. You’ll bring 8-10 years of progressive experience in footwear design, a sharp eye for color, materials, and storytelling, and the ability to guide complex projects from concept through to market launch. Working cross-functionally with product, merchandising, and marketing teams, you’ll ensure every silhouette reflects Vans’ distinct point of view—elevating icons and introducing fresh expressions that resonate globally. This is your opportunity to lead with impact, build inclusive design narratives, and help define the future of Vans through the lens of Women’s and Kids Lifestyle. Let’s break down that day-in-the-life a bit more. Lead a team of world class designers into future space for the brand Align and collaborate across functions and design disciplines to create focused seasonal direction. Fuel creativity and foster newness within the footwear design team Lead the design team and product organization through GTM process with clear feedback and parameters. Define the creative vision that redefines Women’s and Kid’s footwear for Vans. What do you need to succeed? We all have unique skills that we bring to work and celebrate every day. For this role, there are foundation skills you’ll need to succeed and excel. Additionally, while formal education in a related field is great to have, we are most interested in your 8+ years of experience and professional achievements.

Requirements

Proven leadership, organizational and project management capability
Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to interface successfully with internal and external partners
The capability to align with defined strategies of innovation, brand and objectives
Excellent problem-solving skills
Proficiency with computer design software platforms, i.e., 2-D abilities in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, 3D abilities
Working knowledge of Macintosh systems such as Apple Keynote and product line management (PLM)
Professional presentation skills
The knowledge to read, analyze and interpret product design briefs
Strong and proven experience in concept creation, color strategy, technical footwear expertise and product execution
Deep knowledge of fashion and market trends with an understanding of Vans DNA
The strength to work under deadlines, manage multiple priorities, work independently and as part of a team, take initiative, pay close attention to detail
Enthusiasm for design – inspiring, creative, forward-thinking and energetic with solid organizational skills
Self-driven, able to work under pressure and tight deadlines and inspire other to do the same
Domestic and International travel
8+ years of experience and professional achievements

Nice To Haves

Experience with integrating new AI tools into design workflow a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead a team of world class designers into future space for the brand
Align and collaborate across functions and design disciplines to create focused seasonal direction.
Fuel creativity and foster newness within the footwear design team
Lead the design team and product organization through GTM process with clear feedback and parameters.
Define the creative vision that redefines Women’s and Kid’s footwear for Vans.

Benefits

This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential.
You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on www.MyVFbenefits.com and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

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