DescriptionOverviewThe Sr. Manager of Creative Design provides agile leadership for the Graphic Design team within the Pro Sports Hot Market division. This role translates high-level creative direction into executable plans, driving team performance and overseeing all graphic design output - including Creative Programs such as Localization, Collaborations, Special Collections, Event 1 initiatives, Hot Markets, Disney and other growth opportunities - while ensuring speed-to-market for both proactive and reactive programs for Pro Sports moments.
This role owns speed-to-market by identifying emerging trends, partnering cross-functionally, and delivering commercially relevant graphics for time-sensitive opportunities. This role balances entrepreneurial thinking with disciplined execution, managing internal designers, freelance resources, and art production and licensing partners.
Serving as a critical connector between the strategic direction set by the Sr. Director and Brand partners and the day-to-day work of the design team, the Sr. Manager coaches and develops team members, optimizes workflows, builds cross-functional alignment, and delivers measurable productivity and quality outcomes.
Job ResponsibilitiesCreative Execution & Quality Oversight- Art directs or supervises all Pro Sports graphic design projects -including sketch packs, and graphic boards - ensuring all work is completed in accordance with established policies, Pro Sports licensed guidelines, and on-time and within budget.
- Directs market-right research and development of new print, embroidery, and decoration processes; coordinates trend research at retail and relevant niche/hot markets to ensure design relevance and competitive positioning.
- Supervises the review and approval of all graphic designs (prints and embroideries), ensuring final art files meet quality standards and are delivered on schedule.
- Lead business development initiatives including Hot Markets, Localization, Special Collections, Event programs and other growth opportunities.
- Own creative execution for high-profile sports moments including Super Bowl, AFC/NFC Championships, NBA Playoffs, World Series, Stanley Cup, NCAA Championships and other key events.
- Evaluate market trends, retail insights and consumer behavior to identify new creative opportunities within the Hot Market and Localized graphic design space.
- Present creative concepts and business opportunity recommendations to leadership and cross-functional partners to grow the business in this space .
- Prioritize rapid-response projects while maintaining brand consistency and operational discipline.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement- Collaborates with Brand and Retail Partners on appropriate graphics aligned with Pro Sports hot market direction
- Communicates clearly and partners effectively with internal and external clients; maintains departmental policies and procedures governing project flow and client interactions.
- Presents or supervises the presentation of graphic designs, decoration information, and graphic specifics to the division's sales force or Retail buyers - verbally or in written form.
Operational Management & Process Improvement- Manages day-to-day team operations across multiple design sub-groups; coordinates workload distribution, project prioritization, and resource allocation to maintain momentum across all active projects.
- Establishes and manages departmental budgets; monitors project costs and reports on financial performance.
- Identifies and implements process improvements to enhance team efficiency, consistency of output, and creative quality.
- Manages or coordinates special projects as directed by the Sr Director - Creative Design, ensuring timely and high-quality execution.
Talent Development & Team Leadership- Supports, trains, supervises, and formally reviews all direct reports - including Designers, Freelancers, and Associate Designers - in accordance with Unrivaled Teamwear HR guidelines, policies, and procedures.
- Actively coaches team members toward higher performance; identifies development opportunities and builds individual growth plans to strengthen the design team pipeline.
- Builds team spirit and community by aligning all associates around clearly stated creative and business goals.
- Ensures day-to-day compliance with EEO/Affirmative Action policies.
Minimum Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
- 4-6 years of experience in graphic design within the apparel or sports industry.
- 4+ years of experience as a lead, supervisor, and/or manager in a creative environment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple design teams or sub-functions simultaneously.
- Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; familiarity with project management tools preferred.
- Experience with embroidery, screen print, and decoration processes strongly preferred.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Experience managing fast-turn creative organizations and external creative resources.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the associate. Other duties will be assigned as needed.
