Creative Operations Specialist-REMOTE

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.

Creative Operations Specialist

The Opportunity

At Designer Brands, creativity isn’t just a department—it’s the heartbeat of how we connect with our customers. As a Creative Operations Specialist, you’ll be the behind-the-scenes force that keeps our creative engine running smoothly. You’ll partner with passionate designers, marketers, and brand storytellers to bring big ideas to life—on time, on brand, and with impact.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives on organization, loves solving puzzles, and finds joy in helping creative teams do their best work. If you’re energized by fast-paced environments and want to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of fashion retail, we’d love to meet you.

What You’ll Be Doing

Creative Review & Collaboration

• Lead the Flow of Ideas

  • Facilitate and document Creative Review Meetings, capturing key takeaways, action items, and next steps.
  • Own meeting invites and agendas, ensuring visibility into deadlines and deliverables to keep everyone aligned.
  • Track creative milestones and ensure teams are synced on timelines and expectations.

• Drive Strategic Alignment

  • Plan and execute the Stakeholder Wall Walk—a key moment for aligning seasonal creative across channels.
  • Lead prep sessions and dress rehearsals, build the whiteboard framework, and confidently guide discussions with executive stakeholders.

Process Optimization & Workflow Management

• Streamline How Work Gets Done

  • Partner with teams to improve creative workflows—from intake to delivery.
  • Develop and manage a brief review process for non-Workfront projects to ensure clarity before work begins.
  • Provide timing guidance for creative needs tied to the Seasonal Milestone Calendar (SMC).

• Bridge Strategy and Execution

  • Collaborate closely with Traffic to align operational processes with project execution and avoid duplication.

Reporting & Metrics

• Make Work Visible
  • Track and report on creative team metrics, especially for work outside of Workfront.
  • Collaborate with Traffic to ensure reporting supports broader project visibility.
  • Build and refine dashboards and documentation to improve efficiency and transparency.

What You’ll Need

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 2–3 years of experience in creative operations, project management, marketing operations, or a related role.
• Experience working with creative teams and cross-functional partners is a plus.

Skills & Strengths

• Organized & Strategic

  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to anticipate challenges before they arise.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Collaborative & Influential

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Comfortable leading through influence and navigating high-pressure situations with confidence.

• Tech-Savvy & Resourceful

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based project management tools.
  • Experience with Workfront is a plus.
  • Familiarity with Airtable and Adobe Creative Suite is helpful but not required.

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy! 

• Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi.
• Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work.
• Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives.
• We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & DSW.com, plus discounts across our family of brands.

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