About Nike

NIKE, Inc. is the global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment, designing the future of sport and culture. At Nike's headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon, designers, artists, and innovators push boundaries to elevate the athlete experience, advance modern style, and minimize environmental impact. Nike's Design teams are at the forefront of innovation, blending cutting-edge materials, bold ideas, and athlete insights to create products that inspire and perform.

Role Overview

As Lead Designer, Tennis Apparel Product Design, you'll spearhead the creation of groundbreaking women's tennis apparel at Nike's Beaverton campus. Reporting to the Women’s Global Tennis Design Director, this role focuses on delivering original, innovative designs that embody Nike's philosophy while leading industry trends. You'll craft on-court SLAM pieces, in-season collections, and off-court sportswear, supporting the full athlete journey for female tennis players and footballers. This position demands a fusion of creativity, technical expertise, and collaborative prowess to turn consumer insights into resonant products.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day will immerse you in the heart of Nike's design process. You'll develop innovative apparel solutions aligned with seasonal creative direction, fueled by deep athlete and consumer research. Expect to sketch concepts, iterate prototypes, and present compelling narratives to cross-functional teams including design management, development, merchandising, and business partners. Monitoring sample development, you'll liaise with pattern makers, materials experts, apparel labs, and on-court testers to ensure designs are feasible, on-budget, and delivered on time. Strong communication and emotional intelligence will be key as you navigate priorities and foster inclusivity.

Design Innovation

Create original designs reflecting Nike's legacy in sport and forward-thinking sustainability, targeting women's global tennis portfolio.

Trend Translation

Research sport, youth, and cultural trends, unpacking opportunities into visual stories and product strategies.

Collaboration & Execution

Partner across organizations to hit price points, timelines, and merchandising goals while maintaining design integrity.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks a curious, detail-oriented leader with a Bachelor's Degree in Apparel/Fashion Design or equivalent practical experience. You bring 5+ years in apparel design, a passion for trends, and proficiency in Adobe CC Suite plus CLO 3D tools. Expertise in sketching, illustration, typography, print/pattern, color theory, and layout is essential, alongside knowledge of apparel product creation. Ideal candidates excel in visual storytelling, adapting to change, and embracing diverse viewpoints with high emotional intelligence and collaborative skills.

Must-Have Skills

• Trend analysis across sport and culture
• Insight-driven design narratives
• Digital design acumen (Adobe CC, CLO)
• Strong process proficiency and communication

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing unparalleled perks tailored for creators. Enjoy competitive compensation, comprehensive health benefits, and employee discounts on iconic products. Nike's Beaverton campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including design labs and athlete testing grounds. Additional perks include flexible work options, professional development programs, wellness initiatives, and accommodations like screen readers and sign language interpreters for interviews. Thrive in an inclusive culture that empowers diverse talents to make athletes' dreams reality.

Career Growth

This Lead Designer role is a launchpad within Nike's Women's Global Tennis team. Gain mentorship from Expert Designers and Directors, expanding your influence across categories. Nike invests in your growth through training, global exposure, and leadership pathways. Many alumni advance to senior design director roles, shaping Nike's multi-billion-dollar portfolios. Your contributions will fuel innovations that redefine tennis apparel for generations.

Why Join Us

Be part of a legacy where design meets athletic performance. At Nike, you'll collaborate with top talents, access cutting-edge tools, and impact millions of athletes worldwide. Located in Beaverton, Oregon, enjoy a vibrant campus life amid Portland's creative scene. Nike's commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation ensures your work advances human potential and planetary good. If you're passionate about tennis, women's sport, and craft, this is your chance to lead the future of apparel design.

Role FAQs

What experience is required?

Minimum 5+ years in apparel/fashion design, with a degree or equivalent.

Is relocation support offered?

Nike provides resources for transitions to Beaverton; specifics discussed during interviews.

What tools will I use?

Adobe CC Suite, CLO 3D, and Nike's proprietary design platforms.

Is this role remote?

Primarily on-site in Beaverton for collaboration, with flexible options.

How does Nike support diversity?

Through inclusive hiring, accommodations, and fostering diverse viewpoints.