Job Description

Overview:

The Design Art Manager will oversee the creative direction and execution of visual content across print, digital, and e-comm. This role requires expertise in design, retail advertising, art direction, branding, and project management, with a focus on delivering high-quality, on-brand creative work that resonates with the WSS target audience. The position manages an internal creative team and day-to-day department output, collaborating with cross-functional partners: including retail marketing, digital/e-commerce, social, brand, events, and visual merchandising to ensure a cohesive WSS brand experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Team Management:

• Lead the brand’s visual art direction, ensuring consistency with campaign and company objectives.
• Manage and mentor an internal team of designers and freelancers, fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation.
• Oversee and contribute to the design and production of creative work, including in-store signage, promotional materials, digital graphics, web assets, print pieces, and social media content.
• Partner with the Creative Director to concept and develop creative briefs, strategies, and assets.
• Assign daily creative tasks, set priorities, and manage workflows to ensure team alignment.

Project Management:

• Supervise the creative development of multiple assets, ensuring alignment with brand and project guidelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams: including marketing, visual merchandising, e-commerce, digital, social, and production partners for seamless project execution.
• Improve creative processes by working with cross-functional partners to establish detailed timelines, key milestones, and deadlines.
• Align resources with team availability and project needs, managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with the Creative Director to develop design strategies that support business goals.
• Present and communicate design concepts and strategies clearly to the creative team and stakeholders.
• Build strong relationships and trust across the organization to deliver best-in-class work.
• Communicate effectively in high-pressure situations, ensuring clarity of expectations.
• Provide constructive, empathetic feedback to team members while aligning objectives with key stakeholders.
• Serve as the central point of contact for all creative assets, facilitating collaboration and maintaining an organized asset library.

Quality Control & Consistency:

• Maintain brand standards across all visual content to ensure cohesion and quality.
• Conduct design reviews and provide actionable feedback to uphold high creative standards.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitor visuals, and audience preferences to inspire fresh, relevant designs.
• Use market research insights to refine and evolve the visual identity.

Requirements:

• 4+ years of creative marketing experience in retail, branding, or marketing, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign; After Effects a plus).
• Strong understanding of digital, print, and social media design requirements.
• Experience managing creative workflows and project management tools (e.g., Basecamp, Asana, Monday.com).
• Knowledge of product and lifestyle photography, typography, videography, and production processes.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire creative teams.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, with experience working closely with marketing, e-commerce, events, and visual merchandising teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain creative concepts to non-design stakeholders.
• Strong conceptual and strategic design skills, with a portfolio showcasing high-quality, on-brand work.
• Ability to balance creativity with business objectives and timelines.
• Up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, competitor landscape, and emerging design technologies.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, retail-driven environment.

About WSS

WSS is the premier footwear retailer in the U.S. doing business in neighborhood-based stores. Consumers trust WSS for the best brands, greatest values, and largest selection of athletic, dress, fashion, and casual footwear for the entire family. Our large store format enables us to showcase thousands of styles from top brands like Nike, Jordan, Vans, Converse, Adidas, Puma, Skechers, etc. In addition, WSS carries high quality private brands augmenting the breadth of selection to deliver amazing value to our customers.

Founded in Southern California in 1984 by entrepreneur Eric Alon, all WSS stores feature a unique retail format that displays every style and size. This allows customers to browse on their terms, in a hassle-free environment, engaging the friendly and knowledgeable sales staff when they choose. The success of this business model has allowed WSS to continue its rapid expansion into new markets. WSS currently operates stores throughout California, Nevada, Arizona, Texas and Florida. In October 2021 WSS was acquired by Foot Locker, Inc. WSS is now proudly one of Foot Locker’s banners under the WSS name.

WSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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