Vans: Associate Creative Director, Brand Narratives

1 month ago

Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time
Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live "Off The Wall" - embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. Yesterday's "Off The Wall" moment is today's new normal, and at Vans, we believe in constantly outdoing ourselves. Together with our communities across the globe, our vision is to push culture forward because we believe that the pursuit of progression never ends. We are constantly inspired by the future generation of positive catalysts within our community.

So, before we get to the job details, take a minute to learn a little more about us - our values and our culture. If you can see yourself working side-by-side with a team of people who think and live "Off the Wall," Vans just may be the place for you.

To learn more about our values and our culture, visit Vans Careers or

What will you do?

You are an expert in crafting compelling brand and product narratives through transmedia storytelling. Your outstanding brand communication skills span digital and physical consumer journeys. You will build and maintain the brand tone of voice for Vans, creating meaningful connections with consumers. You are passionate about writing stories, concepts, and narratives that stand out and deliver brand distinction.

A day in the life of a ACD, Brand Narrative at Vans looks a little like this:

As a trusted member of the Global Brand Creative team reporting to the Sr. Creative Director, Global Brand Creative, you will initially oversee one Sr. Copywriter as you build your team. You will work closely with Creative teams, Category Marketing leads, and Functional Marketing leads. Your primary role is to develop seasonal brand narratives and concepts that are the creative and strategic backbone to our brand marketing map. You will work hand-in-hand with Creative teammates to deliver best-in-class storytelling across all levels of the marketing funnel. Most importantly, you will help Vans deliver sharp, culturally relevant, and meaningful stories to consumers.

Let's break down that day-in-the-life a bit more.

Develop global guidelines and playbooks for Brand Tone of Voice Craft brand and product narratives aligned with the Global Brand Marketing Map Create compelling campaign messaging hierarchies including taglines, secondary messaging, and product messaging Innovate storytelling across transmedia platforms Collaborate with Creative, Category Marketing, Retail Marketing, Social, PR, Media, and Culture Innovation teams to ensure consistent and impactful messaging What do you need to succeed?

We all have unique skills that we bring to work and celebrate every day. For this role, there are foundation skills you'll need to succeed and excel. Additionally, while formal education in a related field is great to have, we are most interested in your 7-10 years of experience and professional achievements.

The foundation skills you will need in this position are:

Passion for storytelling and creativity Strong problem solving skills Strong connection to culture Intuitive understanding of cultural trends and shifts Dependable and accountable Ability to work under tight deadlines Leadership and mentorship abilities Curiosity and eagerness to learn and experiment Fluency in transmedia storytelling platforms and modern consumer touchpoints Ability to lead through ambiguity and change Experience with cross-functional teams and agency partners There are also a few skills that are not required but preferred.

Authentic connection to skateboarding and/or skate culture Brand Narrative and/or Brand Comms experience at a major brand Familiarity with other creative disciplines such as Art Direction, Graphic Design, Motion/Video Design, Retail Design, Digital Design, etc. What do we offer you?

At Vans, we know you expect as much from us as we do from you. That is why we make a commitment to support and grow our people. We offer extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions, a competitive compensation package, and a strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).

Our commitment extends beyond this and into your daily work life. We strive to foster a diverse and inclusive culture based on respect, connection, and authenticity. Our focus on DEI is at the foundation of who we are and what we do.

To learn more about Vans' benefits package, follow this and click "Looking to Join VF".

To learn more about Vans' Diversity and Inclusion efforts, go to

Now WE have a question for YOU.

Are you in?

Hiring Range:

$116,640.00 USD - $145,800.00 USD annually

Incentive Potential: This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential. Specific details of the additional compensation eligibility for this position will be provided during the recruiting and interview process.

Benefits at VF Corporation: You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

Please note, our hiring ranges are determined and built from market pay data. In determining the specific compensation for this position, we comply with all local, state, and federal laws.

At VF, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at VF will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.

Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

  • Social Media and Community Engagement Coordinator

    1 week ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States Vans Full time

    About VansVans is a pioneering brand deeply embedded in the authentic culture of skateboarding. Our mission is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace the "Off The Wall" lifestyle, celebrating the youthful essence of freedom, individuality, and continuous growth. At Vans, we believe that yesterday's achievements set the stage for today's innovations,...

  • Vans: Producer, Creative

    2 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    The Producer is responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of digital projects across multiple platforms. Your main objective will be to oversee the entire production process, ensuring projects are completed within specified timelines, budgets, and with the utmost quality standards. You should be an expert in digital post-production and have...

  • Vans: Brand Social

    1 week ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF Corporation Full time

    About UsVans is a pioneering brand deeply rooted in the authentic culture of skateboarding. Our mission is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace the "Off The Wall" lifestyle, celebrating the spirit of freedom, individuality, and continuous improvement. At Vans, we recognize that yesterday's milestones are the foundation for today's achievements, and...

  • Vans: Designer, Color

    3 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    As a Footwear Color and Trend Designer, Skateboarding you will be working with a large project team of different professional (Product Line Managers, Developers, Marketers, Fit and Wear testing, Sustainability, Materials, etc.), and collaborate within the design community (Industrial Designers, Apparel Designers, Color & Trend designers, Art Directors, and...

  • Vans: Senior Designer, Lifestyle Footwear

    1 month ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    As Senior Footwear Designer for the Lifestyle team, you'll sketch and render visionary concepts for uppers, midsoles and outsoles, utilizing the appropriate manufacturing technologies. You'll also be responsible for color and material selection. A deep connection to the consumer and culture is essential for this position. You will partner with Product...

  • Vans: Senior Designer, Lifestyle Footwear

    2 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF Corporation Full time

    As Senior Footwear Designer for the Lifestyle team, you'll sketch and render visionary concepts for uppers, midsoles and outsoles, utilizing the appropriate manufacturing technologies. You'll also be responsible for color and material selection. A deep connection to the consumer and culture is essential for this position. You will partner with Product...

  • Vans: Senior Manager Marketing Operations

    3 weeks ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF Corporation Full time

    Sr. Manager, Marketing Operations (Americas)As the Sr. Manager, Marketing Operations you will be a vital member of the Vans Americas Marketing Operations team that is charged with orchestrating the planning and execution of highly effective Marketing campaigns that drive growth for our brand at every point of distribution. You will play a critical role in...

  • Vans: Developer, Materials Innovation

    3 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    Now that you've found the job description, what's next?Vans is "Off The Wall". To us, "Off the Wall" is a state of mind. It means thinking differently and embracing creative self-expression. It's choosing your own line on your board and in your life. Vans has over 50 years of connecting to youth culture and we continue to advocate for action sports while...

  • Senior Creative Writer

    4 days ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States Arrowmac Full time

    Job DescriptionWe are seeking a highly skilled Creative Writer to join our team at Arrowmac. As a key member of our creative team, you will be responsible for crafting compelling and persuasive copy across various media, from digital advertisements to print campaigns.Key Responsibilities:Creative Ideation: Develop innovative and effective copy concepts under...

  • Vans: Manager, Mobile

    4 weeks ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    Manager, Mobile at Vans Americas eCommerceThe Manager, Mobile role at Vans Americas eCommerce involves leading the strategy and development of mobile programs such as the Vans App, Push Messaging, and SMS. Working closely with marketing, eCommerce, and technology teams, the Manager, Mobile will identify opportunities in the mobile space to drive revenue...

  • Vans: Product Line Coordinator, Lifestyle Footwear

    2 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    As a Product Line Coordinator at Vans, you will be responsible for supporting the Lifestyle Footwear Product team during the product creation lifecycle. Responsibilities include cross functional communication coordination, facilitating seasonal reporting and data entry with extensive use of Excel and PLM system, managing and organizing Footwear samples and...

  • Vans: Manager, Integrated Business Planning

    2 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    Join the Vans FamilyVans is the original action sports footwear company, rooted in authenticity and creativity. Founded in 1966, we have thrived on a legacy of impacting our greater community through four pillars: action sports, music, art and street culture. We are constantly inspired by the expressive creators within our company and community as they bring...

  • Vans: Footwear Developer

    2 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    Now that you've found the job description, what's next?Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live "Off The Wall" - embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. Yesterday's "Off The Wall" moment is today's new...

  • Brand Marketing Manager

    5 days ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States El Pollo Loco Full time

    Job Summary:The Brand Marketing Manager leads the marketing innovation and activation strategy, around new product platforms, by working cross-functionally and directing the creative agency relationship. This strategic leader will drive, influence, lead and consult through marketing initiatives and the 4D Process (Discover, Dream, Design, Deliver).Key...

  • Senior Manager, Wholesale Marketing

    1 month ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    Join an Iconic BrandFounded in 1966, Vans is the original action sports footwear company renowned for its authenticity and creativity. Rooted in four pillars - action sports, music, art, and street culture - Vans thrives on impacting communities and empowering individuals to be their unique selves. At Vans, inclusivity and creativity drive our culture,...

  • Senior Graphic Designer

    4 days ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States Arrowmac Full time

    Job OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled Senior Graphic Designer to join our team at Arrowmac. As a key member of our creative department, you will be responsible for developing innovative design solutions that drive business results.Key ResponsibilitiesCreative Ideation: Develop original and effective design concepts that meet the needs of our clients...

  • Brand Marketing Manager

    16 hours ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States El Pollo Loco Full time

    Job SummaryWe are seeking a highly skilled Brand Marketing Manager to lead our marketing innovation and activation strategy. This role will be responsible for driving, influencing, leading, and consulting through marketing initiatives and the 4D Process (Discover, Dream, Design, Deliver).Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute marketing calendars to achieve...

  • Senior Graphic Designer

    5 days ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States Arrowmac Full time

    Job OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled Senior Graphic Designer to join our team at Arrowmac. As a key member of our creative team, you will be responsible for developing innovative design solutions that drive business results.Key ResponsibilitiesCreative Ideation: Develop original and innovative design concepts that meet the needs of our clients and...

  • Senior Creative Copywriter for Marketing Agency

    20 hours ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States RemotelyHR Full time

    Job OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled Senior Creative Copywriter to join our team at RemotelyHR. As a key member of our marketing agency, you will be responsible for crafting compelling copy that drives results for our clients in the healthcare and senior living industries.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop creative concepts and write engaging copy for...

  • Vans: Developer, Apparel Materials

    2 months ago

    Costa Mesa, California, United States VF CORPORATION Full time

    Now that you've found the job description, what's next?Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live "Off The Wall" - embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. Yesterday's "Off The Wall" moment is today's new...