The North Face: Design Manager, Technical Equipment (Technical Packs, Tents and Sleeping Bags)

Join the North Face Family

The North Face was built on a love for the outdoors and the desire to enable all types of exploration, for all people, from their backyards to the Himalayas. Over the last 50 years we've lived by our “true north,” the belief that exploration has the power to change us, to challenge us and to help us see the world from new perspectives. To help ignite a global movement of outdoor exploration, love for the natural world and an unwavering commitment to protect it, we welcome and encourage new participants to the outdoors. We extend our reach through support of non-profit organizations, establishing programs that connect participants with close-to-home recreation opportunities, and creating a connection with young leaders, inspiring them to explore and conserve.

As we enter our sixth decade, we pledge to:

• Empower exploration and the thrill of the unknown for as many people as possible.
• Protect the places where we live, play, and operate.
• Evolve the way we make our products by improving our environmental performance and social responsibility in the supply chain.

Design Manager Technical Equipment (Global TNF)

Lead the best-in-class Technical Equipment Design Team (Technical Packs, Tents, and Sleeping Bags) at The North Face. Solve consumer needs, incorporate insights and learnings from over 50 years of innovation and exploration. Lead a talented motivated design team to deliver at a high level with integrity and curiosity.

How You Will Make a Difference

What you will do: Manage the design and design processes within Technical Equipment Team. Collaborate with teammates and cross function partners to drive wholistic design solutions. Help the Director balance contemporary design aesthetics while maintaining an outdoor DNA that speaks to a broad range of consumers.

How you will do it: Lead through example by creating outstanding assets and storytelling.  Mentor direct reports and ensure quality their design output. Receptiveness to feedback and willingness to adapt design throughout the season to better serve our consumer.

What success looks like:

Communication: Exceptional design communication skills in the form of concept sketching, Illustrator tech packing, presentation clarity, 3D modeling, sewing mock-ups, and rendering. Present research and trend analysis to build rational and richer storytelling around design decisions.

Collaboration: Working closely with Product Management, Development, and the Design Director to create highly functional and aesthetically expressive product. Consulting with Materials, Merchandising, and Creative Direction teams to incorporate new technologies, account data, and drive brand alignment.

Leadership: Manage team deliverables, deadlines, and workload. Lead humbly but clearly to communicate priorities to junior team member. Mentor and create career growth plans for direct reports.

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity

As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness, and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Skills for Success

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial/ product design or equivalent
• 8 years of experience in technical pack design or equivalent industry experience
• Strong aesthetic sensibility
• 2 years of people management experience
• Advanced knowledge of product construction, suspension, trims, and fabrics
• Experience working in large cross functional organizations
• 3D modeling experience
• Tent and Sleeping bag design expertise a plus
   

What’s In It for You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package. Go to MyVFBenefits.com and click on “Looking to Join VF?” to learn more.

Our Parent Company, VF Corporation

VF is one of the world’s largest apparel, footwear and accessories companies connecting people to the lifestyles, activities, and experiences they cherish through our family of iconic outdoor, active and workwear brands. At the heart of our journey lies our company-wide purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. It’s a commitment shared by our global associates across all brands. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com.