Deckers Brands
Director, HOKA Innovation - Computational Design
Deckers Brands, Portland, Oregon, United States, 97204
At Deckers Brands, Together, Every Step is a promise kept that every employee can bring their authentic self, is valued and supported, as a whole person, at work and beyond. Together, Every Step is how we continue to deliver exceptional business results, experience an amazing place to work, and have a positive impact on the communities and world around us.
Job Title:
Director, HOKA Innovation - Computational Design
Reports to:
VP, Innovation - HOKA
Location:
Portland, Oregon
The Role
A HOKA Innovator is versatile and can approach new situations and circumstances in original ways. This person can build on experiences and disciplinary expertise and propose novel solutions. They are inquisitive and perceptive in nature and motivated by change, like to experiment and willing to take risks with ideas and new ways to do things.
A HOKA innovator can identify needs and opportunities and come up with out-of-the-box solutions. They are original in their thoughts and ask others to view a situation or practice in a new way. Most importantly this individual is entrepreneurial that can "ideate and make" and is able to carry a project from inception to commercialization.
The Director of Innovation - Computational Design - HOKA will help to drive the HOKA Innovation Strategy by delivering world-class innovations. The right person will have expert visioning and research abilities that create business opportunities through advanced concepts and applications and will be able to sell big ideas to stakeholders though compelling storytelling rooted in insights.
This person is a creative yet strategic leader who champions a culture of out-of-the-box thinking that forwards the people and collective teams at HOKA. They will actively foster an environment where employees trust the people they work with, take pride in the work they do, and inspire each other to reach their full potential - because they know they are contributing to something greater than themselves.
The Director of Innovation - Computational Design - HOKA possesses expertise in Performance Sports, Fitness, Outdoor and Lifestyle Footwear. Apparel experience is a plus.
We celebrate diversity--of your background, your experiences and your unique identity. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace where all of our employees can Come as They Are. We believe that when we bring our different perspectives to work, we are truly Better Together.
Your Impact
Partners with the Vice President, Innovation to support the development and articulation of a vision and HOKA Innovation strategy to internal audiences including the Executive Leadership Team and Product Creation teams.Fosters a team culture that inspires people to innovate fearlessly, push the boundaries of what exists today and look to the future to create new experiences for a world of consumers, including athletes.Individually contributes and leads team to research, design, and deliver disruptive concepts and products from creation through commercialization.Partners closely with the brand product creation teams to support brand innovation streams, while leading design efforts for enterprise-wide innovation pillars.Leverages a team of internal and external resources which identify, utilize, and nurture new concepts, materials, techniques, designs, machinery, processes, intellectual property, partnerships, and/or other exclusive opportunities to advance the level of product innovation.Leads with curiosity and stays ahead of trends and opportunities while also ensuring insights, data, and athlete feedback. Ensures best practices are understood, appropriately applied, and leveraged for innovation.Secure outside resources, vendors, and partners in support of ongoing project plans.Adds to HOKA Utility patent portfolio.Design compelling high-performance product that adheres to brand guidelines and answers consumer needs and works with Innovation team to bring technical product to market.Develop and create illustrations and tech packs for new design concepts using Illustrator, detailing concept, materials, and development specifications based on HOKA brand design guidelinesWorks with the design leadership to implement brand vision, design language and product direction. Works with biomechanical / testing team to evaluate and refine product platformsManage and drive multiple innovation projects that align to the innovation calendarPresents concepts with strong verbal and visual execution, while clearly communicating design process and visionAbility to lead teammates by example, setting the standard for the collective teamInstills and reinforces the highest standards for collaboration and teamwork across the HOKA' brand portfolio, with the goals of identifying synergies, fostering idea sharing, and establishing common goals for profitable growth and continuous innovation.Demonstrates infectious enthusiasm that evokes passion for the purpose across all levels of the global organization; creates forums and opportunities to foster creative thinking, a culture of innovation and discussion in the broader HOKA organization.Champions practices that drive equity, inclusion, and diversity; cultivates a culture of psychological safety, inclusion, and belonging. Fosters an environment of inclusion and belonging where all employees feel heard, recognized, and valued, where differences are embraced, and everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. Champion best practices to improve representation and diversity within the team and at HOKA.Who You Are
Mastery of Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Adobe PhotoshopProficient in Microsoft ApplicationsFamiliar with 3D software for design, Gravity Sketch, Blender, Rhino, Modo, etc.Minimum 4 years of experience in a design, production, or architecture studioPortfolio demonstrating out-of-the-box thinking and stellar taste in designMastery of digital design tools such as SideFX Houdini, Rhino, Grasshopper, or Cinema 4DProficiency in programming (Python and/or C++)Proficiency in real-time tools such as Touch Designer, Unreal Engine, or Unity is a plusResearch experience in computational geometry, computational fabrication, computational intelligence, computational dynamics, or related fieldsWorking knowledge of university-level linear algebra and multivariable calculusStrong understanding of artistic fundamentals of composition, form, and colorCreatively agile and adept in innovative thinking, vision and problem solvingAbility to build a vision, and uphold creative and strategic direction end-to-end to ensure that vision carries through project transitionsA listener and synthesizer who can make the complex simple and find clarity in ambiguityThinks holistically, finding opportunities for radical enterprise solutionsAbility to build a portfolio of focused, future opportunity whilst driving existing projects and programsCan partner with internal and external parties (consumer insights, agencies, athlete science/sports research, design, testing, development, engineering, manufacturing)Advanced project management skills, proactively partnering to facilitate effective meetings and manage key dates and deliverables with project partnersExpert-level narrative development and communication skills, including the ability to prepare and deliver project presentations to senior leadershipStrong commitment to the team; maintains positive working relationships with diverse people, including internal team and external partnersEmbodies ethics and integrity in all work, respecting both company and broader community policies in all conductA deep understanding of the requirements to design highly technical performance productAbility to immerse with and understand our target consumer and marketsDemonstrative knowledge of current trends and the ability to interpret trends into commercial product.Advanced understanding of footwear design including appropriate use of materials, construction techniques, last creation, materials, color application, etc.Well experienced in the preparation and presentation of design concepts and stories to management and other employees of the organization.Expert ability to create and interpret technical footwear drawingsComplete knowledge of interdependency between design and development processes, with the ability to conceptualize and translate from 2D to 3D collaborating with the broader teamHighly motivated team player and self-starter; ability to motivate and inspire othersExcellent verbal, visual, and written communication skills and problem-solving abilities, Strong story-telling skills, with ability to create compelling design stories and themesExperience working effectively in complex global organizations, satisfying the needs of diverse constituents, and often working under the pressure of competing and sometimes conflicting prioritiesStrong project management and organizational skills, ability to lead and multi-task in a fast-paced environment, deadline and process driven, and exceptional attention to detail.Ability to train and develop team members based on individual talents, and support internal career path and developmentExperience mentoring and providing regular feedback to team members that foster skill development and performance improvement including tough conversationsAbility to prioritize, manage, and delegate work to direct reportsAbility to deliver constructive feedback on design and creative conceptsWe'd love to hear from people with
Master's degree Biomechanics, Engineering, Industrial Design or related studies preferred or equivalent combination of education and experienceAt least 15 years of global Footwear experience, in a performance Footwear & Apparel brand. Apparel experience is a plus3+ years people management experienceProven track record, including patents, supporting the creation of winning global innovation strategies.Cross-functional leadership and experience required, with the ability to build a collaborative, supportive operating environmentWhat We'll Give You
Competitive Pay and Bonuses -
We've created a variety of competitive compensation programs to foster career development, reward success and to show our employees just how much they're valued.Financial Planning and wellbeing -
No matter what financial goals our employees have set, we want to help them get there. Our plans provide powerful ways to protect income, pay for expenses and invest in the future.Time away from work -
Sometimes we need time away to be with family, focus on our health or just simply recharge. Our plans support our employees' needs to get out, get healthy and come back stronger than ever.Extras, discounts and perks -
Being a valued member of the Deckers Brands team means more than just a paycheck. From generous discounts to community-based programs, we offer a variety of cool extrasGrowth and Development -
Deckers Brands was built on the idea of pursuing passion. That's why we offer extensive opportunities and support for personal and professional development.Health and Wellness -
There's nothing basic about our comprehensive health and wellness programs and offerings. While at work and at play, we aim to support a healthy lifestyle.
Equal Employment OpportunityDiversity and inclusion are key to our success. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and our employees are people with different strengths, experiences and backgrounds who share a passion for our brands. We welcome qualified applicants regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, mental or physical disability, medical condition and all of the other beautiful parts of your identity.
#LI-TU1
Job Title:
Director, HOKA Innovation - Computational Design
Reports to:
VP, Innovation - HOKA
Location:
Portland, Oregon
The Role
A HOKA Innovator is versatile and can approach new situations and circumstances in original ways. This person can build on experiences and disciplinary expertise and propose novel solutions. They are inquisitive and perceptive in nature and motivated by change, like to experiment and willing to take risks with ideas and new ways to do things.
A HOKA innovator can identify needs and opportunities and come up with out-of-the-box solutions. They are original in their thoughts and ask others to view a situation or practice in a new way. Most importantly this individual is entrepreneurial that can "ideate and make" and is able to carry a project from inception to commercialization.
The Director of Innovation - Computational Design - HOKA will help to drive the HOKA Innovation Strategy by delivering world-class innovations. The right person will have expert visioning and research abilities that create business opportunities through advanced concepts and applications and will be able to sell big ideas to stakeholders though compelling storytelling rooted in insights.
This person is a creative yet strategic leader who champions a culture of out-of-the-box thinking that forwards the people and collective teams at HOKA. They will actively foster an environment where employees trust the people they work with, take pride in the work they do, and inspire each other to reach their full potential - because they know they are contributing to something greater than themselves.
The Director of Innovation - Computational Design - HOKA possesses expertise in Performance Sports, Fitness, Outdoor and Lifestyle Footwear. Apparel experience is a plus.
We celebrate diversity--of your background, your experiences and your unique identity. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace where all of our employees can Come as They Are. We believe that when we bring our different perspectives to work, we are truly Better Together.
Your Impact
Partners with the Vice President, Innovation to support the development and articulation of a vision and HOKA Innovation strategy to internal audiences including the Executive Leadership Team and Product Creation teams.Fosters a team culture that inspires people to innovate fearlessly, push the boundaries of what exists today and look to the future to create new experiences for a world of consumers, including athletes.Individually contributes and leads team to research, design, and deliver disruptive concepts and products from creation through commercialization.Partners closely with the brand product creation teams to support brand innovation streams, while leading design efforts for enterprise-wide innovation pillars.Leverages a team of internal and external resources which identify, utilize, and nurture new concepts, materials, techniques, designs, machinery, processes, intellectual property, partnerships, and/or other exclusive opportunities to advance the level of product innovation.Leads with curiosity and stays ahead of trends and opportunities while also ensuring insights, data, and athlete feedback. Ensures best practices are understood, appropriately applied, and leveraged for innovation.Secure outside resources, vendors, and partners in support of ongoing project plans.Adds to HOKA Utility patent portfolio.Design compelling high-performance product that adheres to brand guidelines and answers consumer needs and works with Innovation team to bring technical product to market.Develop and create illustrations and tech packs for new design concepts using Illustrator, detailing concept, materials, and development specifications based on HOKA brand design guidelinesWorks with the design leadership to implement brand vision, design language and product direction. Works with biomechanical / testing team to evaluate and refine product platformsManage and drive multiple innovation projects that align to the innovation calendarPresents concepts with strong verbal and visual execution, while clearly communicating design process and visionAbility to lead teammates by example, setting the standard for the collective teamInstills and reinforces the highest standards for collaboration and teamwork across the HOKA' brand portfolio, with the goals of identifying synergies, fostering idea sharing, and establishing common goals for profitable growth and continuous innovation.Demonstrates infectious enthusiasm that evokes passion for the purpose across all levels of the global organization; creates forums and opportunities to foster creative thinking, a culture of innovation and discussion in the broader HOKA organization.Champions practices that drive equity, inclusion, and diversity; cultivates a culture of psychological safety, inclusion, and belonging. Fosters an environment of inclusion and belonging where all employees feel heard, recognized, and valued, where differences are embraced, and everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. Champion best practices to improve representation and diversity within the team and at HOKA.Who You Are
Mastery of Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Adobe PhotoshopProficient in Microsoft ApplicationsFamiliar with 3D software for design, Gravity Sketch, Blender, Rhino, Modo, etc.Minimum 4 years of experience in a design, production, or architecture studioPortfolio demonstrating out-of-the-box thinking and stellar taste in designMastery of digital design tools such as SideFX Houdini, Rhino, Grasshopper, or Cinema 4DProficiency in programming (Python and/or C++)Proficiency in real-time tools such as Touch Designer, Unreal Engine, or Unity is a plusResearch experience in computational geometry, computational fabrication, computational intelligence, computational dynamics, or related fieldsWorking knowledge of university-level linear algebra and multivariable calculusStrong understanding of artistic fundamentals of composition, form, and colorCreatively agile and adept in innovative thinking, vision and problem solvingAbility to build a vision, and uphold creative and strategic direction end-to-end to ensure that vision carries through project transitionsA listener and synthesizer who can make the complex simple and find clarity in ambiguityThinks holistically, finding opportunities for radical enterprise solutionsAbility to build a portfolio of focused, future opportunity whilst driving existing projects and programsCan partner with internal and external parties (consumer insights, agencies, athlete science/sports research, design, testing, development, engineering, manufacturing)Advanced project management skills, proactively partnering to facilitate effective meetings and manage key dates and deliverables with project partnersExpert-level narrative development and communication skills, including the ability to prepare and deliver project presentations to senior leadershipStrong commitment to the team; maintains positive working relationships with diverse people, including internal team and external partnersEmbodies ethics and integrity in all work, respecting both company and broader community policies in all conductA deep understanding of the requirements to design highly technical performance productAbility to immerse with and understand our target consumer and marketsDemonstrative knowledge of current trends and the ability to interpret trends into commercial product.Advanced understanding of footwear design including appropriate use of materials, construction techniques, last creation, materials, color application, etc.Well experienced in the preparation and presentation of design concepts and stories to management and other employees of the organization.Expert ability to create and interpret technical footwear drawingsComplete knowledge of interdependency between design and development processes, with the ability to conceptualize and translate from 2D to 3D collaborating with the broader teamHighly motivated team player and self-starter; ability to motivate and inspire othersExcellent verbal, visual, and written communication skills and problem-solving abilities, Strong story-telling skills, with ability to create compelling design stories and themesExperience working effectively in complex global organizations, satisfying the needs of diverse constituents, and often working under the pressure of competing and sometimes conflicting prioritiesStrong project management and organizational skills, ability to lead and multi-task in a fast-paced environment, deadline and process driven, and exceptional attention to detail.Ability to train and develop team members based on individual talents, and support internal career path and developmentExperience mentoring and providing regular feedback to team members that foster skill development and performance improvement including tough conversationsAbility to prioritize, manage, and delegate work to direct reportsAbility to deliver constructive feedback on design and creative conceptsWe'd love to hear from people with
Master's degree Biomechanics, Engineering, Industrial Design or related studies preferred or equivalent combination of education and experienceAt least 15 years of global Footwear experience, in a performance Footwear & Apparel brand. Apparel experience is a plus3+ years people management experienceProven track record, including patents, supporting the creation of winning global innovation strategies.Cross-functional leadership and experience required, with the ability to build a collaborative, supportive operating environmentWhat We'll Give You
Competitive Pay and Bonuses -
We've created a variety of competitive compensation programs to foster career development, reward success and to show our employees just how much they're valued.Financial Planning and wellbeing -
No matter what financial goals our employees have set, we want to help them get there. Our plans provide powerful ways to protect income, pay for expenses and invest in the future.Time away from work -
Sometimes we need time away to be with family, focus on our health or just simply recharge. Our plans support our employees' needs to get out, get healthy and come back stronger than ever.Extras, discounts and perks -
Being a valued member of the Deckers Brands team means more than just a paycheck. From generous discounts to community-based programs, we offer a variety of cool extrasGrowth and Development -
Deckers Brands was built on the idea of pursuing passion. That's why we offer extensive opportunities and support for personal and professional development.Health and Wellness -
There's nothing basic about our comprehensive health and wellness programs and offerings. While at work and at play, we aim to support a healthy lifestyle.
Equal Employment OpportunityDiversity and inclusion are key to our success. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and our employees are people with different strengths, experiences and backgrounds who share a passion for our brands. We welcome qualified applicants regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, mental or physical disability, medical condition and all of the other beautiful parts of your identity.
#LI-TU1