Vans: Senior Director, Footwear Design

Join VFC as Senior Director of Footwear Design and lead the creative vision that shapes iconic skate and lifestyle footwear. This full-time leadership role, based at our Costa Mesa headquarters, offers the opportunity to direct design strategy, mentor top-tier talent, and drive innovation across our global footwear portfolio.

About This Position

As Senior Director of Footwear Design, you'll sit at the intersection of art, engineering, and culture. This is an executive-level position overseeing the complete design function for one of the world's most influential footwear brands. You'll report directly to senior leadership and maintain accountability for design excellence, creative output, and the strategic direction of our product pipeline. Your leadership will span everything from initial concept through to market launch, with influence over design trends that resonate globally.

Responsibilities

• Establish and communicate footwear design strategy, creative vision, and aesthetic direction aligned with brand values and market opportunity
• Lead, develop, and mentor a specialized design team, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence
• Oversee the complete design process from concept development through prototype refinement and design-to-manufacturing handoff
• Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, marketing, materials engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are innovative, manufacturable, and market-ready
• Drive design research, trend analysis, and consumer insight integration to keep our footwear at the forefront of the industry
• Review and approve all design submissions, maintaining consistency with brand standards and performance specifications
• Represent design excellence in internal strategy sessions, industry forums, and external partnerships

Skills & Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience managing design teams within footwear, athletic, or lifestyle product companies
• Deep expertise in footwear design, construction, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Demonstrated track record of directing successful product launches and building culturally relevant designs
• Advanced proficiency in design software and CAD tools relevant to footwear development
• Strategic thinking with the ability to balance creative vision, business objectives, and operational constraints
• Excellent communication skills and ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders
• Passion for skateboarding, action sports, or lifestyle culture preferred

More About VFC

VFC is home to legendary footwear and apparel brands that shape global culture. We're committed to creating products that resonate with athletes, creators, and communities worldwide. Our Costa Mesa headquarters sits at the heart of Southern California's creative energy, where design, innovation, and authenticity drive everything we do.

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