Design Lead, Special Projects

Cupertino, California, United States Corporate Functions

Imagine what you could do here! The people here at Apple don’t just create products — they build the kind of wonder that’s revolutionized entire industries. It’s the diversity of those people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do, from amazing technology to industry‑leading environmental efforts. At Apple, inclusion is a shared responsibility, and we work together to foster a culture where everyone belongs and is inspired to do their best work.

The WW Apple Retail Engagement, Marketing & Merchandising (REMM) team defines, makes and delivers programs, campaigns, initiatives and experiences that help Apple Retail’s customers and teams discover, be inspired by, learn about and go further with Apple’s products and services, and does so in a manner that is true to our values.

Are you a designer first, but love to make things happen? As a Design Lead for Special Projects, you will be at the forefront of shaping the future of Apple Retail. Turn groundbreaking ideas into tangible realities, exploring new technologies—including the potential of Artificial Intelligence—to create exceptional experiences for our customers and teams.

This is a unique opportunity to blend strategic thinking with deep empathy and impeccable design. Bring retail strategies to life through powerful storytelling, crafting seamless journeys that empower our store teams and deliver the experiences our customers love.

• Lead concepting, design and development of special retail projects, including new retail concepts, in‑store experiences, and employee tools, ensuring they deliver innovative and unique "Only at Apple" moments.
• Collaborate with retail strategists and Employee Experience teams to translate business objectives and customer and employee needs into compelling design visions.
• Drive the exploration and application of emerging technologies, including AI/ML, AR, Audio, to create personalized, immersive and seamless in‑store experiences for customers and employees, enhancing areas like customer service, product discovery, learning, and employee workflows.

• 12+ years of experience in designing and delivering exceptional customer and employee experiences.
• A portfolio demonstrating strong craft, design thinking, problem‑solving, and clear examples of work catering to the needs of multiple user groups.
• Strong understanding of the potential of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in enhancing retail experiences and streamlining employee workflows.
• Exceptional storytelling abilities:
  You can take complex concepts and translate them into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with customers, employees, and executive stakeholders alike.
• Track record of cross‑functional collaboration, working effectively with partners to drive innovative in‑store experiences and tool development forward.
• Bachelors degree in Design, UX or related field, or equivalent experience.

• Experience implementing and/or designing with AI or ML.
• Demonstrated ability to conceive, develop, and execute big ideas with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every aspect of the experience is carefully considered and beautifully crafted – from the customer’s perspective to the employee’s toolkit.
• A relentless focus on the customer, ensuring that all design decisions are guided by a deep understanding of their needs, desires, and aspirations. Equally important is your understanding of the challenges and needs of retail employees.
• The ability to translate high‑level retail strategies into tangible experiences that enhance the brand, drive customer engagement, and empower our employees to be their best.
• A visionary mindset, with the ability to paint vivid and easily understood pictures of the future of Retail.
• A strong design aesthetic, reflected in your understanding of Apple’s brand values and commitment to design excellence.

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role.…