What are the responsibilities and job description for the Design Director position at Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)?
Design Director – Tile & Stone Industry
Travel: International travel required
Schedule: In-person role with weekend work as needed
Salary Range - $145k to $175K
Position Overview
We are seeking a Design Director to lead our creative vision and product development efforts. This role requires a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of tile and stone design, manufacturing processes, and global sourcing. The ideal candidate must be hands-on to oversee design initiatives, work closely with overseas vendors to maintain our high standards, and ensure that each product meets aesthetic and functional expectations.
Key Responsibilities
Travel: International travel required
Schedule: In-person role with weekend work as needed
Salary Range - $145k to $175K
Position Overview
We are seeking a Design Director to lead our creative vision and product development efforts. This role requires a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of tile and stone design, manufacturing processes, and global sourcing. The ideal candidate must be hands-on to oversee design initiatives, work closely with overseas vendors to maintain our high standards, and ensure that each product meets aesthetic and functional expectations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Product Design & Development: Drive creative direction for new tile and stone
- Vendor Collaboration: Work closely with international manufacturers to develop and refine products, ensuring quality, pricing, consistency, and timely delivery.
- Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality assurance measures to maintain the brand’s reputation for excellence.
- Retail Showroom Oversight: Manage and guide the retail design team responsible for keeping our showrooms updated with the latest products and designs, ensuring a visually engaging and trend-forward customer experience.
- Market Research & Trend Analysis: Stay ahead of design trends and materials innovations to inform product development strategies.
- Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with marketing, sales, and production teams to bring designs from concept to market. Present design presentations to our sales people and customers.
- International Travel: Frequent travel required to oversee production, manage vendor relationships, and source new materials.
- Adaptability: Weekend and off-hour work may be necessary based on project deadlines and travel schedules.
- Experience: Minimum 7-10 years in highly artistic design in tile, stone, or surface material design, with a strong portfolio of successful product launches.
- Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of materials, manufacturing techniques, and international production processes.
- Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead design teams and collaborate with cross-functional departments.
- Communication & Negotiation: Strong ability to communicate and negotiate with vendors, ensuring quality and design expectations are met. Must be highly organized and numerate to support the business of design
- Software Proficiency: Experience with design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite) is required.
- Flexibility: Willingness to travel internationally and work weekends as needed.
- Work with a passionate, high-performing team in a dynamic and creative environment.
- Be at the forefront of innovation in the tile and stone industry.
- Engage in international travel and collaboration with top global vendors.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
Salary : $145,000 - $175,000
