Vans: Director, Global Apparel Development

Now that you’ve found the job description, what’s next?

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.

Position : Director, Global Apparel & Accessories Development

What will you do?

A day in the life of a Director, Global Apparel and Accessories Development at Vans looks a little like this.

Reporting directly to the Vice President, Global Product Development, this role is responsible for managing and leading the high-level technical development of apparel & accessories globally from design concept to production-ready hand-off. They execute the technical design process from development to final fit approval, ensuring the perfect fit. This leader will ensure their team maintains brand integrity by developing products consistent with established fits, quality standards, manufacturer capabilities, and cost specifications for designated apparel & accessory categories.

Let’s break down that day-in-the-life a bit more.

• Partner with design: Provide technical input during sketches/CAD selection, translating fit intent and aesthetics into 3D and physical prototypes, ensuring quality and cost expectations are met.
• Own product specifications: Maintain records, style files, Bill of Materials (BOM), and samples; audit design packs for completeness and track updates to ensure production readiness
• Approve styles: Approve styles from SMS to bulk production, releasing specifications for fit and BOM/construction.
• Manage the fit process: Manage fit process on live models and fit forms (incl. fit testing, fit library), collaborating with designers, developers, and factories from prototypes to production.
• Collaborate with design: Make recommendations and communicate with factories to improve fit and quality.
• Develop garment technical specifications: Develop, review, and approve using existing blocks or market samples for Design Tech Packs.
• Champion fit consistency: Use Fit Blocks and Fit Guide
• Conduct benchmark analysis: Conduct benchmark analysis and market R&D on existing and new silhouettes.
• Adhere to product development calendars and SOPs: ensure timely completion of fit comments to factories

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 10+ years of experience and professional achievements. 

The foundation skills you will need in this position are:

• Technical expertise: Patternmaking, Fit, etc.
• Strong product acumen with working knowledge of footwear product development processes, including development, sourcing and manufacturing
• Tools: Familiarity/skill with core PD tools (e.g., PLM)

There are also a few skills that are not required but preferred.

• Understanding of the global apparel and accessories sourcing hubs.
• Understanding of the competitive landscape.

What do we offer you?

At Vans, we know you expect as much from us as we do from you. That is why we make a commitment to support and grow our people. We offer extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions, a competitive compensation package, and a strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).

Our commitment extends beyond this and into your daily work life. We strive to foster a diverse and inclusive culture based on respect, connection, and authenticity. Our focus o