WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH

The Expert Footwear Color & Materials Designer role will be based in Seoul, Korea and part of a new extension of the APLA Express Lane Team. This role will be responsible for the color, materials, and trims on all Nike Footwear including but not limited to: Men’s and Women’s genders and across Lifestyle and Performance categories.

This is an individual contributor role reporting to the APLA Design Director and will collaborate closely with key functional partners throughout the Product design process, including:

• APLA Footwear and Apparel Design teammates across categories.

• APLA Product Management and Development teams.

• APLA Merchandising and Marketing partners.

• Global Design counterparts and Nike Creative stakeholders.

• Local PCC and Factory Partners.

• External Vendors and Suppliers.

The ideal candidate will also play a mentorship role, guiding junior designers and contributing to the creative leadership culture within the Seoul studio.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Asia-Pacific & Latin America (APLA) Express Lane is seeking an Expert Footwear Color & Materials Designer, based in Seoul, Korea, to lead the creative strategy and execution of regionally relevant, consumer-connected footwear design. We seek someone who will pioneer new spaces and capabilities for the Brand and who wants to win and values being part of an amazing team. This role is ideal for a visionary designer with expert-level functional design expertise, deep knowledge of Asian consumer and marketplace dynamics, and a proven ability to lead initiatives and mentor others.

We are looking for someone who represents our values of authentic, accountable, collaborative, and courageous. This candidate should be looking to grow and challenge themselves and able to act independently and be self-driven. An individual who has a demonstrated track record of positively influencing internal and external partners. We are also looking for someone who has an entrepreneurial spirit, and able to set a vision and act decisively to execute against it. This candidate works together with others across borders and cultures, supporting others in doing meaningful work, driving impact and connecting consumers to the Nike Brand every day. This designer will be a strategic thinker and versatile problem solver, capable of navigating ambiguity and delivering high-impact design solutions under tight timelines. APLA values agility, cultural fluency, and a collaborative spirit—qualities essential for success in this role.

• 8+ years of professional design experience, preferably within the footwear or sportswear industry.

• BA/BFA/MA/MFA preferred in Footwear Design, Material Design, Textile Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, or a related field.

• Expert-level knowledge in Color and Materials Design for products.

• Comprehensive understanding of footwear construction, tech packs, and schematic development.

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multiple projects and adhere to timelines.

• Thorough knowledge of the Korean and Japanese consumer, with a proven track record of designing for these demographics.

• Proficient in translating geo-specific consumer insights into effective design solutions.

• Excellent visual and verbal presentation skills.

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts clearly and collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.

• Experienced mentor supporting junior designers' growth in a collaborative, inclusive creative team.

• Sound decision-making abilities and strategic thinking skills.

• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Miro. Experience in 3D/AI rendering software is an advantage.

• Willingness and ability to travel up to 25% of the time, including internationally.

• Proficiency in local languages such as Korean or Japanese is considered a valuable asset.

WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON

The Expert Footwear Color & Materials Designer is a creative leader who thrives in fast-paced, multicultural environments, always looking to break new ground and push the boundaries of possibility for Nike. This role shaping seasonal product stories across sportswear and Fields of Play for all genders, while actively seeking innovative approaches and new opportunities to elevate the Brand.

Key responsibilities include developing material and color strategies for APLA Express Lane, presenting ideas to varied audiences, and managing complex projects within tight deadlines. The role demands strong problem-solving, project management, and collaboration skills, plus expertise in Seoul and Tokyo design trends. Essential are knowledge of footwear construction, color theory, and textiles, as well as adaptability and experience working with factory partners on innovative designs.

• Uses sophisticated skills to create product expressions that align with global creative direction, seasonal key concepts, gender strategies, franchise journeys, geo assortments and connect with the APLA consumer.

• Drive the seasonal color and materials strategy for APLA footwear by leveraging consumer insights and market trends to craft innovative palettes, trims, and applications that deliver compelling product stories.

• Partner with Product Management, and Development to build trend-driven assortments, communicate design intent, review prototypes, and refine execution.

• Obsess storytelling and share the “why” behind the work. Present concepts clearly to internal teams, leadership, and external partners, effectively communicating the purpose behind design decisions.

• Manage design deliverables and project timelines, planning and executing product details, reviewing samples, resolving feasibility issues, and ensuring timely project completion.

• Demonstrate strong trend mining skills with a deep connection to consumer and city trends; in-depth knowledge of Nike DNA and the color blocking of iconic footwear models is an advantage.

• Mentoring junior designers and contribute to the studio’s creative culture.

Note: At Nike, we're committed to providing a fair and transparent application process for all applicants. Nike does not charge candidates any fees for recruitment or applications.