Purpose & Overall Relevance for the Organization: 

 

To create Color, Material and Finish relevant concepts, to design and lead others to create industry leading color directions inclusive of palettes and color application concepts for footwear and apparel which inform and support the seasonal brand color strategy. 

 

 

Key Responsibilities:  

 

Create and visualize ideas for color concepts and application for apparel and footwear. Stay continuously tuned to Color, Finish and Materials trends with a high degree of expertise and storytelling. Drive implementation of the seasonal color direction across the brand 

 

Lead Seasonal preparation and research: Design and develop and be part of shaping the creative vision and direction for the seasonal Color palette (based on cultural and trend insights). 

Create Color and Finish application concepts in context to the seasonal creative direction. 

Implement the creative vision seasonally and support with in-season color direction and go to market presentation needs. 

Self-manage creative process, lead, and mentor as required project members as a key stakeholder on concept level and in communication, and execute towards design themes for the season. 

Ensure efficient process and communication flow between design team and cross functional partners.  

Use digital (e.g. 3D, photoshop, illustrator) tools to visualize concepts, create physical samples with a variety of materials and mediums. For example, but not limited to, working with Footwear materials team to create cohesive color + materials design concepts. 

Co-lead the process of physical creation of technical color standards, understanding the chemical process and make-up of color standards including achievability testing in collaboration with the Color Management team 

Verbally present color concept ideas and details with clarity and credibility. 

Create design presentations; physical and digital, co-moderate implementation sessions and co-present at milestone presentations like BKO Color Deep Dive 

Create supportive Color CADS, Renderings, Material and Graphic maps as required 

 

 

Key Relationships:  

 

Works closely with the members of the Color Creative Direction team.  

This includes but is not limited to: 

Providing color content and direction 

Collaboration and critiquing 

To understand technical details of the product 

Cross-functional collaborations: 

Color, Materials and Graphics label leads and Color, Materials and Graphics partners in Design teams in vertical Business categories i.e., BU Training, Running, Originals etc.  

Design and business partners in horizontal functions, i.e., Brand Expression, Innovation teams and Merchandising 

 

 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:  

 

Expert Knowledge and experience in CMF, Footwear, Apparel or Accessories design 

Leadership experience e.g., working with freelancers or direct reports 

Ability to identify trends in design and culture with a strong understanding of Color and Product trends relevant to the brand and its consumers. 

Understanding of brand history, current positioning and marketplace (Footwear, Apparel, streetwear, fashion, sport) 

Experienced and knowledgeable in an understanding of product. From color, material, construction to production. 

Strong presentation and communication skills 

Strong conceptual thinker with ability to bring ideals to life physically and digitally 

High taste level and visual aesthetic with an ability to create future visionary concepts 

Project management experience would be desirable but not essential. 

High level of creativity with ability to understand design concepts and think conceptually 

Ability to influence, negotiate and collaborate with key business partners 

Ability to design for new initiatives and products with a fresh, innovative perspective 

Works well in a team environment. This position requires employee to engage with many stakeholders, as well as manage various information and relationships 

Strong knowledge and use of Macintosh computer design software/systems (Photoshop, Illustrator) 

Knowledge of 3D software programs for illustration and ideation  

Fluent in English (spoken and written) 

Ability to travel 

 

Requisite Education and Experience / Minimum Qualifications:  

 

Associates degree or bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a college or university with Art, Fashion or Product Design focus 

5 years of practical experience in design environment (Footwear/ Apparel/ Accessories - or industrial design, fashion design or similar design related areas) 

Thorough knowledge of art and design with clear understanding of visual design or design related discipline and conceptual storytelling 

Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be substituted for degree. 

Creating 3D concept representation, 3D assets, digital product information for an accurate development and decision-making process