Design Director (Bags & Accessories)

CALPAK is a leader in the travel and lifestyle industry, offering stylish and innovative luggage, bags, and accessories that inspire and transform every journey. At the forefront of creativity and functionality, CALPAK seeks to redefine travel with products that combine trend-forward aesthetics and unparalleled utility.

We are seeking a visionary Design Director to lead the innovation and evolution of the CALPAK brand. This role will be instrumental in evolving the aesthetic boundaries and bringing a bold, trend-forward perspective to our product offerings. You will lead a talented team of designers, crafting unique stories and concepts that honor CALPAK's heritage while propelling it into the future.

The ideal candidate is a passionate leader who thrives in a collaborative environment, combining a unique design vision with a deep understanding of consumer trends and market dynamics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop a clear design strategy that positions CALPAK as an innovative leader in the travel and lifestyle industry.
• Collaborate with the executive team to align design strategies with broader business objectives.
• Partner with Marketing and Digital teams to translate design concepts into impactful products that resonate with customers.

• Lead and oversee the design lifecycle from concept to commercialization, ensuring all designs balance innovation with marketability using sales data and trend research/analysis
• Stay ahead of market trends, competitive landscapes, and consumer behavior to continuously refine CALPAK’s design direction.
• Engage in all aspects of the design process from development through production including but not limited to mood boards, sketching, swatch development, color selection, and tech packs.  

• Hire, mentor, and inspire a diverse team of designers, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and bold thinking.
• Provide ongoing feedback and coaching to develop team members' skills and build a high-performing design team.

• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timelines are met without compromising creativity or quality.
• Ensure designs meet cost and margin targets in collaboration with cross-functional partners.
• Ensure all calendar deadlines and target metrics are being met.  
• Provide any other support as needed.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience leading design for luggage, bags, and/or accessories, preferably at trend-forward, distinctive brands.
• 3+ years in a leadership role, leading a design team and balancing creative innovation with commercial viability.
• Advanced knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and familiarity with 3D design tools.  
• Expert understanding of the design lifecycle, including concept ideation, development, and presentation.
• Advanced knowledge of manufacturing process, fabrics, patterns, and construction
• Exceptional ability to manage multiple projects, stakeholders, and deadlines in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Collaborative mindset with excellent communication skills to articulate a vision and align teams across departments.
• Passionate about trend-forward design, with an eye for details, materials, and designs that push creative boundaries.
• Proven ability to mentor and inspire design teams, fostering creativity and professional growth.
• Portfolio required.
• Travel overseas as necessary.

Why CALPAK: Benefits & Perks

• Annual bonus plan
• Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
• 401K w/ company matching
• Life insurance & Disability coverage
• Accrued paid time off & floating holidays
• Monthly wellness credits
• Dog friendly office
• Employee discount
• Benefits and incentive compensation may be subject to other requirements and conditions