Roots is more than just an iconic Canadian retailer, we are a group of passionate employees who act with integrity, trust each other and do what is right. We work in a space where people can grow and develop, with a team of people who own results and are dedicated to seeing Roots win. We seek to build longstanding relationships with partners who share our commitment to maintaining high ethical standards of operation.

Roots is seeking an experienced Art Director, Apparel & Branding Graphic Design collaboratively with the Senior Designer Director and cross-departmental leaders to drive the creative vision of the brand.

Roots has an incredible history and archive of logo’s, branding and graphics that have truly built the brand. We envision the Apparel & Branding Graphic Design Art Director to be a hugely pivotal role, that will not only act as a custodian of our graphic heritage but to help drive forward and shape the future aesthetic & design language of Roots.

This position will be responsible to manage a team of talented graphic designers, have a strong understanding of the Roots brand DNA and bring a clear point of view while leading, mentoring, and inspiring their team and partners across the business.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross departmental designers, partners and leaders each season, to drive the direction, development and execution of graphic concepts, logo’s, branding and packaging.
• Strong international market awareness to help inform cohesive global collections that incorporate the needs of our international partners and to avoid duplication for SMU collections.
• Structure and encourage team to regularly conduct thorough online research and attend market comparative shopping to evaluate the competitor landscape and to enhance our inspirational design inputs.
• Manage calendar, workload and budget for Graphics team to deliver excellence on time.
• Develop strategic assortment planning throughout the design process, ensuring the team fully consider line plans, price points and attribute the most effective graphic techniques and applications, to reflect the consumer needs for each particular collection or program.
• Collaborate on seasonal concept and translate into clear graphic direction and trend-relevant designs for all departments, including Apparel (Adults & Kids), Accessories, Leather and General Store product, whilst seeking to maintain a cohesive brand voice across all commodities.
• Evaluate, define and evolve clear process for artwork commenting and communication with both internal external teams. Ensure reference library is well maintained throughout.
• Work closely with Print and packaging designer to develop seasonal branding, trims and packaging across all commodities.
• Work with Print/Packaging designer to provide support on key presentation templates and documents.
• Lead and support team of Senior Designers, Designers and Associate Graphic designers to ensure projects are successfully completed in timely manner and adhere to the Seasonal Product calendar deadlines.
• Work closely with Art Director and creative team in Marketing to ensure consistent brand expression across product and customer communication.
• Travel to domestic and international trade shows and vendors, as required.

Qualification and skills

• 10+ years experience in Graphic Design and/or related roles such as Apparel Design, Branding/Art direction, plus should include 4+ years in leadership or managerial role.
• Strong knowledge and experience of various graphic production processes (print techniques, applique, embroidery, washes etc.)
• Packaging or Apparel production knowledge is considered a strong asset.
• Extensive knowledge in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop).
• Functional working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Powerpoint, Word and Excel)
• Experience in 3D software is an additional asset.
• Willingness to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and highly collaborative environment, as required to manage multiple seasons at a time, whilst maintaining product calendar deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills in both presentation and team work environments.

Founded in 1973, Roots Canada is a publicly held Canadian lifestyle brand that sells apparel, leather bags, small leather goods, footwear and active athletic wear with over 100 retail stores in North America and Asia.

At Roots we appreciate that skills and expertise are cultivated through a range of experiences. We are committed to reflecting Canada's diverse landscape in our products, team, and workplace culture. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every listed requirement. Accommodations are available for applicants throughout the recruitment process.