Job description

ABOUT US
tms unites technology, marketing, and sourcing to drive transformational change for the world’s leading brands. With 1,200+ employees across 26 countries, we offer an impressive range of solutions – from inspiration and innovation to category management and delivery.
Operating as a creative agency, a strategic consultancy, a sourcing business, and a technology provider, we engage with over 110 million customers every single day for our clients, including McDonald’s, T-Mobile, O2, Starbucks, and adidas.
Most importantly, we're a place where you can achieve great things, and be recognized as the best.
WHAT MATTERS THE MOST
Breakthrough, business-driving ideas come from extraordinary people with the freedom to be their most authentic selves at work. Authenticity and diversity are critical elements of our business. They can only be realized when we create access and equity for all. We foster a culture of inclusion and belonging and aspire to be ever-evolving.
tms is a place where brilliant people are better together. If you want your ideas to be heard and to contribute to a culture of inclusion and authenticity, bring us your voice! Visit us at tmsw.com.
WHY WE THINK YOU WILL LOVE THIS ROLE
We're seeking a visionary Design Director to elevate our creative ecosystem through trend-forward thinking, inspiring leadership, and exceptional product storytelling. You'll guide our in-house design team across concept development, industrial design, trend forecasting, illustration, graphics, packaging, and production artwork—bringing our brands to life, captivating new audiences, and driving brand growth.
Reporting to the SVP of Global Product & Creative, this Seattle-based role requires on-site presence and occasional travel.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ORGANIZATION
Creative Vision & Strategy
Lead the development and execution of brand narratives and seasonal storytelling across our portfolio, ensuring each brand maintains a distinctive voice while adhering to overarching standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate creative strategies with business goals.
Trend Leadership
Cultivate a forward-thinking design approach by synthesizing insights from fashion, beauty, home design, sport/lifestyle, packaging, art, music, and digital media. Stay ahead of industry trends and leverage them to drive innovation.
Team Development
Inspire and mentor a diverse team of creative professionals, connecting their work directly to business objectives and fostering a culture of innovation. Implement professional development programs to enhance team skills and performance.
Design Excellence
Drive the creation of compelling visual assets that elevate our brand identities across all consumer touchpoints. Ensure consistency and quality in all design outputs.
Operational Leadership:
Set clear goals and timelines for creative initiatives.
Develop solutions to complex problems both within and across departments.
Strategically plan and advocate for necessary resources.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all organizational levels and global locations. Foster collaboration and alignment across teams.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE WE WOULD LIKE YOU TO HAVE
Creative visionary with 10+ years of design and creative leadership experience across multiple categories for global lifestyle brands: Demonstrated ability to drive brand innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Proven leadership identity with 8+ years guiding, mentoring, and inspiring design teams: Track record of fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
Bachelor’s degree in design or related creative discipline: Advanced degree preferred.
Ability to conceive, articulate, and implement innovative design strategies that propel brands forward: Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in design software including Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Microsoft Office, Smartsheet, and digital asset management tools: Expertise in utilizing design tools to create impactful visual content.
Experience with AI-assisted design tools: Familiarity with emerging technologies and their application in design.
Self-motivated collaborator who balances autonomy with team-first mentality: Ability to work independently while contributing to team success.
Exceptional presentation and communication skills—both verbal and visual: Ability to effectively convey ideas and concepts to diverse audiences.
Superior time management abilities with a track record of meeting deadlines: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Cultural awareness and connection to contemporary trends across art, fashion, music, and digital landscapes: Ability to integrate cultural insights into design strategies.
Innovative mindset that continually seeks improvement: Commitment to continuous lear

Design Director at tms