Lead Designer, Running & Acg Innovation Footwear Product Design

WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH 

The successful candidate will work closely with the Running & ACG Innovation Senior Design Director, collaborating with a vibrant mix of innovators, scientists, biomechanists, engineers, program managers and athletes, united by a love for creative problem solving and challenging convention.  

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR 

Nike is searching for a visionary Footwear Designer to help redefine the future of Running and ACG. The successful candidate is fueled by curiosity and a relentless passion for sport and culture. They are driven to learn, to obsess over athletes’ needs, and to push boundaries in design and innovation. Collaboration is at the heart of their approach; they bring infectious energy and adaptability, thriving in environments where big dreams and bold ideas are celebrated. 

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial design or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training  

• 5-7 years of relevant work experience in designing and developing innovative footwear and other products  

• Previous footwear design experience   

• Must be able to build accurate 2D technical drawings (tech packs)  

• Ability to translate consumer knowledge and insights into product solutions and narratives  

• Proficient in Adobe CC and comfortable working within new digital spaces  

• 3D design skillset : Gravity Sketch, Rhino, Blender or any 3D software is a plus  

• Cobbling and prototyping skills are encouraged  

• Ability to communicate ideas through sketching, illustration, rendering  

• Solid knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials 

• Must be able to generate a broad range of concepts and solutions for each project 

• Bring positive energy to build a strong creative environment 

• Entrepreneurial, advocating for own ideas and others’ 

• Speaks up with courage for self and the team 

• Open minded, good listener, receptive to candid feedback and diverse points of view 

• Lead and drive partnerships beyond the Design function (Marketing, Engineering, Development, etc.) 

• Eager to experiment with cutting-edge materials and pioneering new methods 

• Ability to simplify complex problems 

• Prior knowledge of running is a plus 

WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON 

In this role, you’ll shape the future of Running and ACG footwear by collaborating with diverse teams, engaging directly with athletes and experts, and driving innovation through both independent and group work. You’ll balance creative exploration with while leveraging Nike’s vast resources to deliver impactful solutions.   

Key Responsibilities: 

• You’ll work closely with athletes, biomechanists, and the Nike Sports Research Lab to uncover new opportunities and address real-world needs.   

• You’ll collaborate with engineers, innovators, and fellow designers, developing your own ideas and building on others to create pioneering solutions.   

• You’ll be part of multi-functional teams where relationship building and collaboration are essential for success at Nike. 

• You’ll balance collaborative meetings with solo work, staying entrepreneurial and self-motivated while making the most of Nike’s vast resources.   

• You’ll share your work in both formal and informal reviews, embracing feedback and continuous improvement.   

• You’ll explore ideas through sketching, 3D and cobbling to discover new and innovative solutions 

• You’ll face challenges head-on, thriving in a fast-paced environment that values creative problem-solving and adaptability.