Senior Manager, Core Footwear Product Design

NIKE is seeking a Senior Manager for Core Footwear Product Design in Portland, OR. The role involves leading innovative footwear design across various categories, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and mentoring design talent. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, 8+ years of relevant experience, and proficiency in technical design tools. The position offers a collaborative environment focused on innovation and sustainability.
Position Overview

NIKE, Inc. designs the future. At NIKE, Inc. designers chase their curiosities to build what’s next – shaping culture and advancing human potential. We are looking for a Senior Manager of Footwear Product Design for the Nike Core Footwear design team. In this role you will leverage your expert design skills and creative problem solving to create innovative products that elevate the athlete experience while reducing environmental impact.






Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and execution of groundbreaking footwear across categories (training, running, basketball, classics, modern lifestyle, and sandals) from concept to reality.
Collaborate closely with the Senior Design Director, Product Managers, and cross-functional teams—including engineering, research, marketing, testing, sustainability, and materials—to ensure design integrity, innovation, quality, and performance.
Transform seasonal creative directions and consumer insights into industry-leading product stories and technical design packages.
Oversee sample reviews and communicate necessary changes to meet construction, fit, style, and cost/value requirements.
Manage and mentor design teammates and direct reports, fostering collaboration and innovation across the design community.




Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design or a related field (or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training).
8+ years of experience in designing and developing innovative footwear and products.
Proficiency in technical footwear design, including the ability to build accurate 2D technical drawings (tech packs) and a strong command of Photoshop and Illustrator.
Solid understanding of form, color, materials, human factors, and manufacturing processes, with exposure to sustainable design practices.
Strong sketching, illustration, and rendering skills with familiarity in digital design processes and presentation tools (Keynote, PowerPoint, Acrobat, etc.).
3D design experience is a plus; cobbling and prototyping skills are also advantageous.
Excellent project management skills with proven experience leading cross-functional teams and mentoring design talent.




Benefits & Accommodations

A collaborative work environment with large cross-functional teams committed to innovation.
Opportunities to lead key brand initiatives and drive forward-thinking product designs.
Accommodations provided during the interview process, including screen readers, sign language interpreters, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed.