Director of Design
About The Position
As the Design Director, you will lead the creative vision and execution across all product categories: Apparel, Footwear, and Gear, ensuring every design reflects 5.11's purpose-built DNA and delivers innovation, function, and style. You'll define the design language, seasonal direction, and brand aesthetic across categories and consumer groups (Professional, Tactical, Adventure, Fitness), while mentoring a team of designers and graphic artists from concept through commercialization in alignment with the product calendar and company strategy.
Requirements
- 10+ years of progressive design experience in apparel, footwear, or gear; minimum 5 years in a leadership role.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating function-driven design and innovative material use.
- Proven success leading design teams within a vertical retail or consumer brand environment.
- Deep understanding of the product creation process from concept to commercialization.
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, PLM systems, and 3D design tools.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and cross-functional leadership skills.
Responsibilities
- Define and champion 5.11's design vision to align with brand identity and consumer expectations.
- Lead and inspire the Apparel, Footwear, Gear, and Graphic Design teams to deliver cohesive seasonal collections.
- Establish design standards for silhouette, color, material, and branding across product lines.
- Collaborate with Merchandising, Development, and Technical Design to ensure concepts meet cost, function, and quality goals.
- Drive innovation in materials, construction, and design to enhance performance and durability.
- Participate in seasonal gate reviews and product milestones to ensure creative alignment and design excellence.
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of designers and graphic artists; foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and creativity.
- Set clear goals, workflows, and feedback processes to drive team performance.
- Partner with HR and the CPMO to identify and develop high-potential design talent.
- Translate consumer insights and market trends into actionable design strategies.
- Partner with Marketing and Merchandising to ensure cohesive storytelling across all channels.
- Maintain category distinction while ensuring a unified 5.11 brand experience.
Benefits
- medical, dental and vision insurance
- a 401(k) program with employer match
- employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance
- Hospital Indemnity/Accident insurance
- Flexible Spending Account/Health Saving Account
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays/Sick Time
- Casual Dress Code
- Employee Discounts
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Industry
Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Shoe, and Jewelry Retailers
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
