About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and creators through innovative design and storytelling. With a legacy of pushing boundaries in sportswear, footwear, and lifestyle products, Nike shapes global culture. In Greater China, Nike's Express Lane initiative accelerates product creation to meet the fast-evolving needs of urban consumers in key cities like Shanghai and Beijing. This approach ensures hyperlocal relevance, blending global innovation with local narratives to inspire Streetwear and Lifestyle enthusiasts.

Role Overview

As Lead Designer, Color & Materials Footwear at Nike in Shanghai, you will spearhead the creation of industry-leading collections that resonate deeply with Greater China's Streetwear and Lifestyle consumers. Based in the heart of Shanghai, this role sits within the GC Express Lane team, focusing on speed, specificity, and consumer connection. You will craft compelling head-to-toe expressions using color, graphics, materials, trims, and details, driving authentic stories that elevate Nike's presence in key markets.

Key Impact Areas

Your work will influence product lines that capture local cultural insights, turning market trends into covetable designs. Collaborate across design, product management, and development to deliver premium footwear that embodies Nike's design ethos.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic role, you will dive into the creative process from ideation to execution. Responsibilities include conducting in-depth consumer and trend research to inform hyperlocal narratives. You will develop visions for Footwear and Apparel collections, integrating graphic and color design with materials expertise. Day-to-day tasks encompass sketching, exploration, project management, design reviews, and creating product CAD and tech packs. Expect to produce presentation materials like mood boards that communicate design intent to internal and external stakeholders. Collaboration is key—partner with GC insights, marketing, product, and development experts to ensure collections connect emotionally with consumers.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks a creative leader with a BA/BFA/MA/MFA or Associates Degree in Graphic Design, Product Design, or a related field. Bring 5-7 years of relevant experience in Graphic Design, Color Design, or Product Design. A strong passion for cultural and market insights is essential, alongside proven skills in concept creation, iteration, and multi-disciplinary teamwork. You must demonstrate holistic head-to-toe design thinking, awareness of Nike's brand ethos, and connections to contemporary art, sport, and streetwear trends. Technical proficiency includes advanced color theory, typography, sketching, texture application, and digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite on Mac platforms. Experience with 3D and AI design tools is a plus. Above all, showcase a portfolio of industry-leading graphics that weave consumer insights into powerful, relevant storytelling.

Must-Have Skills

• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration
• Project management across multiple timelines
• Original graphic and textile design reflecting Nike's ethos

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing world-class resources and a supportive environment. Enjoy competitive compensation estimated at 650,000-950,000 CNY annually, reflecting Shanghai's retail/tech sector rates with upside potential. Benefit from Nike's employee perks, including health and wellness programs, product discounts, and professional development opportunities. Work in Shanghai's vibrant design scene, with proximity to key consumer markets. Nike fosters work-life balance through flexible arrangements and invests in your growth via training and global exposure.

Career Growth

This Lead Designer role is a launchpad for senior creative positions within Nike's Greater China and global teams. Excel here to influence broader Asia-Pacific strategies or transition into product innovation leadership. Nike's culture emphasizes mentorship, with access to design leadership and cross-category projects. Build a portfolio that positions you as a trendsetter in Streetwear and Lifestyle, opening doors to executive design roles.

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's Express Lane revolution in Greater China, where speed meets storytelling. Shape products that define urban culture in Shanghai and Beijing. Collaborate with top talent, leverage Nike's iconic brand, and create work that inspires millions. This is your chance to blend local authenticity with global scale, crafting premium designs that drive consumer loyalty and business growth. Nike values diversity, innovation, and bold ideas—bring yours to the forefront.

Role FAQs

Q: Is relocation support available? Nike offers competitive packages; discuss during interviews.

Q: What software is required? Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite on Mac; 3D/AI tools a plus.

Q: Focus on Footwear or Apparel? Holistic head-to-toe, with primary emphasis on Footwear color & materials.

Q: Experience level? 5-7 years in relevant design fields.

Q: Portfolio submission? Yes, highlight graphics, color work, and consumer-driven stories.

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