Manager, Graphic Design - Quick Strike

At Fanatics Commerce, we’re more than just a leader in licensed sports merchandise – we’re a team united by a relentless passion for our fans and a commitment to innovation. We live by our BOLD Leadership principles: We Build Championship Teams, we’re Obsessed with Fans, we embrace a Limitless Entrepreneurial Spirit, and we approach every challenge with a Determined and Relentless Mindset. If you’re ready to contribute to a dynamic, fast-paced environment that thrives on collaboration and growth, we want you to be part of our team.
 

ROLE OVERVIEW: 
Manage a team of Graphic Designers with ownership of graphic segmentation for assigned leagues utilizing robust graphic design skillset, typography, color theory, brand identity rules and composition expertise. Collaborate with Graphic Design Director to develop creative direction for seasonal assortment. Lead graphic design and development based on creative direction, product brief and line plan strategy. Work closely with Apparel Design and Graphic Design managers to create consistent story telling across leagues and brands. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Product Development, Sourcing and Merchandising on complete product strategy to meet financial targets.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

• Manage the design and development of the seasonal sourced product lines, hot market events, and special programs.
• Responsible for the creative management of our licensed sports business, managing a team of 3-6 graphic designers
• Collaborate with Creative Director, Designers and Cross-Brand Directors  to develop creative direction for seasonal assortments and league initiatives.
• Maintain an active understanding of trends in sports apparel and sports / pop culture, consumer insights, new business opportunities, and competitors in the market to influence design aesthetic and strategy through the development of mood, trend, and ideation boards
• Demonstrate expert-level knowledge of color theory, typography, concept development, and branding
• Partners with the Cross-Functional teams on new graphic placements, Apparel Design details and Graphic Technique, etc.
• Encourages and solicits ideas from within the team and confidently shares fresh perspectives that will enhance creativity
• Confidently lead the design team by sharing fresh perspectives that will enhance creativity and promote new ideas through written and verbal communications to internal and external partners
• Expert knowledge of different decoration techniques and how to apply and translate art appropriately across product classifications and material.
• Maintain calendar deadlines and deliverables in close collaboration with cross-functional disciplines.
• Comfortable presenting design concepts and assortments during reviews and presentations.
• Mentor and develop creative talent within the team.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE TEAM:

• Bachelor’s degree in Arts or related field or the equivalent combination of education, training, or work experience, +5-7 years of professional graphic design experience.
• Licensing or Sports related experience a plus. Experience managing a creative team a plus.
• (REQUIRED) Must provide a strong professional portfolio showcasing a wide range of design skills/abilities
• Excellent organizational leadership and communication skills. Ability to lead a team in order to meet deadlines, prioritize workload, adapt to change, and maintain composure and morale under pressure. 
• Maintains a positive and professional attitude towards the team, cross-functional partners, vendors, and clients.
• Advanced level knowledge using Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
• Intermediate to advanced skills in typography
• Demonstrate advanced-level knowledge of color theory, composition, and concept development, adhering to brand guidelines and seasonal creative stories.
• Strong knowledge of production art, printing, and garment production processes both Import and Domestic.
• Familiarity working within project management systems
• Intermediate level use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal; should be able to deliver ideas and decisions in a professional manner
• Must be detail oriented
• Must be able to communicate and lead a team to work effectively and cross-functionally across all departments and external partners.
• Can manage projects individually or as a part of a team.
• Results driven and solutions focused
• Ability to work in a fast pace and dynamic environment
• Sports fan a plus

At Fanatics, we value transparency and honesty. If you don’t meet every single requirement, that’s okay – we still want to hear from you! We believe in the power of diverse experiences and talents. If you’re excited about the role and confident that you can contribute, don’t hesitate to apply. We’re genuinely interested in how your unique skills and perspective can help us build something amazing together.

WHERE YOU'LL WORK AND WHAT'S REQUIRED:

• Ability to travel up to 20% of the job

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU:

Culture: Join a team where you're surrounded by top-tier talent, driven by a shared passion to relentlessly enhance the fan experience. With a focus on collaboration, support, and continuous development, you’ll be empowered to help shape a our culture that celebrates both individual and team successes. 

Benefits: We provide a wide range of health, financial, legal, and development assistance, including wellness programs with fitness and weight management partners, paid maternity paternity leave, and infertility treatment. Additionally, we offer flexible time off to help you recharge, along with a competitive 401k plan to support your financial future. At Fanatics, we’re dedicated to supporting you in all aspects of work and life.