Design Director Job at Careers at NOA Brands America, Inc. in Westminster

NOA Brands is an innovative company specializing in the design and manufacture of custom mannequins and products for global brands and retailers. We are dedicated to creating unique, high-quality display solutions that enhance brand visibility and retail experiences. Our team is passionate about pushing the boundaries of design and manufacturing to deliver exceptional products. At NOA Brands you'll have the opportunity to work on exciting and innovative projects for some of the world's leading brands and retailers. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment where creativity and innovation are encouraged. Join us and be a part of a team that is redefining the retail display experience!

Job Summary

We are seeking a visionary Design Director to lead our multidisciplinary design teams and drive the creative development of custom solutions that fit within the brand’s vision and meet retail challenges head-on.

What You Will Do

Team Leadership & Collaboration:

• Manage and oversee a diverse range of teams, including sculpting, digital design, 3D scanning/printing, master prototyping, sewing, finishing, and product design.
• Coordinate with photography, marketing, and social media teams to bring the brand’s story to life.

Product Development:

• Work closely with customers and account executives to build custom mannequin collections.
• Define new product lines, incorporating market and competitor analysis, while considering retail challenges and user experience.
• Deliver creative, cost-effective solutions with minimal direction from the VP of Sales, Marketing, & Creative.

Hands-On Design & Execution:

• Participate in the design process, working directly with teams to ensure excellence in every product detail, from sculpting to finishing touches.
• Maintain a strong focus on clothing fit and mannequin appearance, with an obsession for detail.

Process Optimization & Efficiency:

• Drive towards simplification of the custom design process to improve efficiency.
• Establish universal standards for extraneous parts (fittings, bases, finishes, paint colors) to streamline production.
• Lead efforts to improve team timelines, communication, and overall workflow.

Strategic Vision & Market Insight:

• Perform market and competitor analysis to inform design decisions and product direction.
• Gather customer and internal input to shape the strategic vision for new product lines.

KPI & Continuous Improvement:

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure continuous improvement in product quality, timelines, and operational efficiency.
• Promote a culture of innovation and excellence across all teams.

What It Takes to Succeed

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related field; equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• 6+ years’ experience managing multidisciplinary design teams, with a successful track record of leading creative and technical teams.
• Expert in retail design and design for manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience managing project budgets and timelines.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong sense of urgency, with a drive to deliver “best-in-class” results.
• Curious mindset, continuously asking questions and driving innovation.
• Team player who leaves ego at the door and fosters a collaborative and open design process.
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional projects and work collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts to technical and non-technical audiences as well as executive leadership.
• If you are a creative leader with a passion for retail design and a drive for efficiency, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping the future of retail displays for the world’s top brands.

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

Location:

• On-site, Westminster, Colorado
• Relocation assistance is not available for this position

Reports To: Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Creative

Direct Reports: 3D Team, Innovation & Sustainability Manager, Product Development Manager

Benefits (FTE):

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Various Voluntary Insurance Programs
• Company Paid Short and Long-term Disability, Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• 401K Matching Program
• 12-week Parental Leave Program
• PTO and 10 Paid Holidays
• Dog Friendly Workplace

Pay: $100-120K annually DOE

In accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, the approximate annual base compensation range is listed above. The actual offer, reflecting the total compensation package and benefits, will be determined by several factors including the applicant's experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity among our team.

As part of our ‘For Every Body’ core pillar, NOA Brands provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race (including hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion (including head coverings), age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.