Somerville, Director Design Basketball Footwear Creative & Design

Creative & Design, Somerville, United States of America

Director Design Basketball Footwear

SPEED & SPIRIT is what we look for in our candidates, defined by some simple values that inspire us to BE DRIVEN in our performance, BE VIBRANT in our sporting legacy, BE TOGETHER in our team spirit, and BE YOU to let our individual talent and experience shine. Applying for a job at PUMA is easy. Simply click APPLY ONLINE and follow the steps to upload your application.

At PUMA, every application is reviewed by real people who are committed to fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity - no matter your background, identity, or experience. To ensure our process stays true to these values, no automated systems or AI tools are used to make hiring decisions. Every decision is made by real people
-with real judgment and accountability.

We may use functions supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to carry out isolated organizational steps, such as scheduling interviews. These functions have no influence on decisions in the application process. We believe in creating spaces where everyone is welcome, celebrated, and empowered to contribute authentically. Because at PUMA, whoever wants to play, can play.

PUMA is seeking a visionary and strategic Director Design for Basketball Footwear to lead the creative direction and product innovation for our basketball category. This role is responsible for driving athlete-informed design, integrating cultural relevance, and delivering performance-driven products that elevate our brand in the basketball space.

Define and lead the long-term design vision and seasonal strategies for basketball footwear

Oversee the full design process from concept to final product, ensuring alignment with performance, brand, and market goals

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product line management, sports marketing, engineering, and merchandising

Mentor and manage a team of designers, fostering creativity, technical excellence, and professional growth

Integrate athlete feedback, trend research, and consumer insights into design decisions

Ensure innovation in materials, construction, and sustainability within the basketball category

Present design concepts and product stories to senior leadership and external partners

Maintain awareness of competitive landscape and emerging trends in basketball culture and performance

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or related field (Master’s preferred)

10+ years of experience in footwear design, with a strong focus on performance or basketball categories

7 years of leadership experience managing design teams and cross-functional collaboration

Deep understanding of basketball culture, athlete needs, and footwear innovation

Strong portfolio showcasing performance footwear design and storytelling

Excellent communication, presentation, and project management skills

Domestic & International Travel required - up to 40%

The hiring range base pay for this position is $135,600-$187,795 + Bonus + Benefits

Pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience

PUMA provides equal opportunities for all job applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Equality for all is one of the core principles at PUMA and we do not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination.

PUMA is a global sports brand creating footwear, apparel, and accessories that inspire athletes and everyday movers. The PUMA Group owns PUMA, Cobra Golf, and stichd, operates in 120+ countries, and has around 22,000 employees worldwide.

The large running presence in Boston drives our passion to be to the Fastest Sports Brand in the World.