Manager, Design Operations

Manager, Design Operations

Newell Brands is a leading consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands like Graco, Coleman, Oster, Rubbermaid, Sharpie and Yankee Candle - and 24,000 talented teammates around the world. Our culture is built on values in action : Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership, and Leadership. We work together to win, grow, and make a real impactsupported by a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative environment where you can be your best, every day.

Job Overview

The Manager, Design Operations role is responsible for Design Operations and eCommerce production for an entire Newell Brands business segment across three core areas : Design program and budget management, strategic initiatives, and campaigns and agency oversight. This position thrives in dynamic environments, embracing day-to-day challenges and opportunities to build new initiatives from the ground up. The Manager will help co-create and implement operational models and standards that elevate the design organization's ability to deliver excellent brand experiences. Key areas of focus include design processes, training and development, workflow and tooling, and governance practices.

Responsibilities

• Translate strategy and prioritized needs assessment information into execution plans.
• Partner with the Director, Creative to meet segment strategic objectives and achieve financial goals.
• Manage a team responsible for cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives.
• Prioritize both planned work and ad hoc requests based on complexity and strategic value.
• Produce monthly reporting for design leadership on project status and health.
• Work with cross-functional experts to integrate best practices into digital and physical shelf content.
• Manage workflow for DTC content (e.g., email, paid social) including development and deployment of assets.
• Define and implement global asset sharing and approval processes in collaboration with Senior Manager, Design Operations.
• Oversee delivery and maintenance of digital assets across corporate databases.
• Implement content governance workflows across the enterprise and local markets.
• Manage design contractor and agency budgets at the segment and project level.
• Track and report budget expenditures in partnership with segment leaders.
• Negotiate agency contracts, ensure seamless execution and communication, and manage progress reporting.
• Develop and implement mastery and training initiatives to support design talent growth.
• Assign and supervise employee projects and coach team development.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Technical Skills

Proficiency in project management tools (Workfront poweruser experience is required). Systems Administration and timeline / reporting architecture expertise. Familiarity with CMS, PIM, DAM systems (Salesforce preferred). Knowledge of typographic standards, font management, syndication tools, HTML, CSS. JSON programming skills are a plus.

Qualifications

Bachelor's or advanced degree in Art, Design, Business, or similar field. 8+ years of relevant experience in corporate or consulting design. 3+ direct people management experience is required. Experience managing agency relationships and articulating creative strategy. Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities in a dynamic environment. Strong interpersonal and leadership skills; proven collaborator, coach, and influencer. Excellent communication skills across all organizational levels. Team-oriented mindset and professional style promoting collaboration and performance. Experience with change management and process transformation. Creative thinker and problem-solver, adept at introducing innovative approaches. Strong storytelling and training capabilities with business translation skills. Familiarity with photography, design roles, tools, and production workflows. Exceptional attention to detail. Ability to travel as needed.