Design Director, Kitchen and Tabletop

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director, Kitchen and Tabletop Company: Target Location: 1000 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403-2542, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Product Design & Development (Retail - Owned Brands) Date Posted: November 7, 2025 Experience Level: 15+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design vision and strategic product development for Target's Kitchen and Tabletop owned brands, ensuring alignment with overall company product strategy and financial objectives.
• Lead and mentor a team of designers, fostering a creative and collaborative environment focused on innovation, market trends, and exceeding guest expectations for style, quality, and value.
• Drive the aesthetic execution of product lines, including color, fabric/finish standards, print/pattern, and form expression, to maintain brand integrity and deliver a compelling "point of view" and "point of difference."
• Partner closely with Divisional Merchandise Directors and sourcing counterparts to translate business priorities and assortment architecture into successful, profitable, and exclusive product offerings that differentiate Target in the marketplace.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Target's robust Owned Brand Management & Product Design organization, emphasizing the creation of unique, high-quality, and affordable products. The "Kitchen and Tabletop" specialization indicates a focus on home goods related to culinary and dining experiences, requiring deep expertise in materials, aesthetics, and consumer trends within this specific category. The seniority of "Director" implies significant strategic input, team leadership, and cross-functional influence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and champion creative concepts and product strategies that align with Target's overall product vision, quality standards, and financial goals for the Kitchen and Tabletop categories.
• Lead the end-to-end product design and development process, from initial trend research and concept ideation through to aesthetic execution and final product delivery.
• Manage and mentor a team of designers, setting clear objectives, providing constructive performance feedback, and identifying potential for growth and development within the team.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional partners, including merchandising, sourcing, and marketing, to ensure product assortments meet business needs, line plans, price points, and creative direction.
• Conduct rigorous seasonal trend research, material innovation exploration, and competitive analysis to inform design decisions and maintain Target's position as a style leader.
• Drive financial results by identifying and executing design solutions for business opportunities, including new product concepts, seasonal focuses, and responses to market shifts.
• Ensure the integrity and consistency of Target's brands by delivering appropriate "point of view" and "point of difference" while preserving overarching brand consistency across divisions.
• Oversee the aesthetic execution of products, including color palettes, fabric/finish standards, print and pattern development, and form expression, ensuring they meet designated guest segments and product strategy.
• Leverage cross-company synergies within Target to evolve and champion the design role and its impact on guest satisfaction and business success.
• Manage domestic and overseas market travel to stay abreast of global trends, manufacturing capabilities, and sourcing opportunities relevant to Kitchen and Tabletop products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, creative direction, team management, and deep product development expertise. The emphasis on "Owned Brand" means the role is critical in differentiating Target from competitors through exclusive product offerings. The "Kitchen and Tabletop" specialization requires a nuanced understanding of materials, functionality, aesthetics, and consumer lifestyles related to cooking, dining, and home entertaining.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Four-year degree in Design, Fine Arts, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

• 15+ years of experience in product design and development within a retail or wholesale environment, with a proven track record of success.
• 15+ years of experience specifically within the Kitchen and Tabletop product category.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing product development teams, ideally with a team size of ten or more.
• Extensive experience with domestic and overseas market travel for trend research, vendor engagement, and production oversight.

Required Skills:

• Product Design & Development Expertise: Deep understanding of the entire product lifecycle, from concept to final production, with a strong portfolio showcasing successful Kitchen and Tabletop product launches.
• Trend Identification & Commercial Sense: Ability to proactively identify emerging market trends, translate them into commercially viable product designs, and anticipate consumer needs.
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a design team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Excellent skills in partnering with merchandising, sourcing, and other departments to achieve shared business objectives.
• Presentation & Communication: Outstanding verbal and written communication, presentation, negotiation, and influencing skills to effectively convey design vision and strategy to diverse stakeholders.
• Aesthetic Execution: Demonstrated expertise in color, fabric/finish standards, print/pattern design, and form expression relevant to Kitchen and Tabletop products.
• Consumer Understanding: Ability to empathize with and translate consumer insights into desirable and functional product designs.
• Process Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of design and product development processes, including an understanding of relevant manufacturing techniques, materials, and quality standards for Kitchen and Tabletop goods.

Preferred Skills:

• Material Science & Manufacturing: Specialized knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and quality control specific to kitchenware, cookware, serveware, and tabletop accessories.
• Global Sourcing & Production: Experience navigating international supply chains, managing overseas vendors, and ensuring ethical and efficient production.
• Retail Strategy Acumen: Understanding of retail merchandising, assortment planning, and how design contributes to overall brand strategy and sales performance.
• Innovation Mindset: A track record of bringing innovative materials, technologies, or design approaches to market.
• Digital Design Tools Proficiency: Familiarity with industry-standard design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, CAD tools) relevant to product visualization and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "15+ years" requirement for both overall experience and category-specific experience indicates a highly senior role demanding deep domain expertise and a proven history of impactful contributions. The emphasis on "domestic and overseas market travel" suggests a need for global perspective and hands-on experience with international sourcing and production. The specific mention of "Kitchen and Tabletop" is crucial, implying that candidates must demonstrate a strong portfolio and experience directly within these product categories.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 10-15 years of impactful product design work, with a significant focus on Kitchen and Tabletop categories.
• Case studies that clearly articulate the design process from concept to market-ready product, detailing problem identification, creative solutions, and final aesthetic execution.
• Examples demonstrating leadership in product development, including team management, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic decision-making.
• Visual representations of product design solutions that highlight innovation, commercial viability, and adherence to quality and cost objectives.
• Evidence of successful partnerships with manufacturing, detailing how design intent was translated into production realities and any challenges overcome.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate and document design and development workflows, including trend research methodologies, concept ideation frameworks, and product specification processes.
• Demonstrate experience in creating and maintaining design briefs, mood boards, and technical design packages that clearly communicate product vision to development and sourcing teams.
• Showcase an organized approach to managing multiple projects simultaneously, including tracking progress, managing timelines, and ensuring timely delivery of design milestones.
• Provide examples of how feedback from merchandising, consumer research, and production teams was incorporated into design iterations to optimize product outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Director role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not just show finished products but the strategic thinking, process, and leadership behind them. For Kitchen and Tabletop, specific examples of material innovation, functional design, and aesthetic trend integration would be highly valued. The "process documentation" aspect emphasizes the need for a structured, repeatable, and efficient design methodology.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $131,000 - $236,000 USD per year Explanation of Range: This salary range is based on Target's stated compensation for this role in Minneapolis, MN, considering the seniority of a Design Director, 15+ years of experience, and the specialized nature of the Kitchen and Tabletop category. Market data for similar senior design leadership roles in major retail hubs like Minneapolis supports this range.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance plans to support overall well-being.
• Life Insurance: Financial protection for beneficiaries.
• Retirement Savings: Eligible team members can participate in a 401(k) plan.
• Employee Discount: A valuable discount on Target products, enhancing the employee shopping experience.
• Disability Support: Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance to provide income protection during unexpected health events.
• Paid Time Off: Generous provisions for Paid Sick Leave, Paid National Holidays, and Paid Vacation to ensure work-life balance.
• Additional Programs: Access to various other benefits and programs focused on financial, educational, and overall well-being, as detailed at corporate.target.com/careers/benefits.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with the expectation of flexibility to meet business needs, project deadlines, and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is substantial, reflecting the senior leadership level and the critical nature of this role in driving Target's owned brand strategy. The benefits package is robust, typical of a large, established retail organization like Target, with a strong emphasis on health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. The mention of "Hybrid/Flex for Your Day" work arrangement suggests a need for flexibility within the standard working hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Mass Merchandising, E-commerce) Company Size: 350,000+ team members worldwide. Founded: 1902 Company Description: As a Fortune 50 company, Target is a leading iconic American retailer committed to helping families discover the joy of everyday life. Target is known for its commitment to communities, talent development, and fostering a "one Target team" culture. Their operations span physical stores, digital platforms, and extensive supply chain networks.

Target's Owned Brand Approach: Target's Owned Brand Management & Product Design organization is central to its competitive strategy. This division is responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and delivering stylish, high-quality, and affordable products across numerous categories, including Kitchen and Tabletop. The culture here emphasizes trend-spotting, innovation, and a deep understanding of the Target guest.

Team Structure:

• The Design Director will lead a team of designers focused specifically on the Kitchen and Tabletop categories.
• This team operates within the broader Owned Brand Management & Product Design organization, reporting up through Design & Development leadership.
• Close partnerships are maintained with Divisional Merchandise Directors, sourcing teams, and other cross-functional departments crucial for product lifecycle management.
• Collaboration is key, with a focus on shared goals and driving the success of Target's exclusive brands.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: Design decisions are informed by consumer research, market trend analysis, and sales performance data.
• Trend Forecasting: Proactive identification of emerging styles, materials, and consumer preferences in the Kitchen and Tabletop space.
• Collaborative Development: Iterative design processes involving feedback loops with merchandising, sourcing, and marketing.
• Quality & Value Focus: A core principle is delivering exceptional design and quality at accessible price points.
• Brand Cohesion: Ensuring all product designs align with and enhance the overall brand identity of Target's owned labels.

Company Website: https://corporate.target.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Target's culture is characterized by a strong emphasis on guest-centricity, innovation, and teamwork. For a Design Director role, understanding the "Target guest" and how to design for their needs and aspirations within the Kitchen and Tabletop space is paramount. The scale of Target means that design decisions have a significant impact on millions of consumers and contribute substantially to the company's revenue and brand perception.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Leadership / Director Level. This role sits at the intersection of creative design and strategic business execution within a major retail organization. It requires not only design mastery but also significant leadership, strategic thinking, and business acumen.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director will report to higher-level Design & Development leadership within the Owned Brand organization. They will directly manage a team of designers and work in close partnership with peers in merchandising and sourcing.

Operations Impact: The Design Director plays a critical role in driving revenue and brand differentiation through the creation of exclusive, high-demand products in the Kitchen and Tabletop categories. Their work directly influences guest purchasing decisions, product assortment success, and the overall perception of Target's owned brands. The ability to innovate and deliver on quality and value at Target's scale has a substantial financial impact.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership Expansion: Potential to lead broader product categories or contribute to overarching design strategy for Target's owned brands.
• Cross-Category Exposure: Opportunities to learn from and potentially influence design directions in adjacent or other product categories within Target.
• Mentorship & Talent Development: Develop advanced leadership skills by nurturing and growing design talent within the organization.
• Industry Influence: Represent Target at industry events, contribute to trend forecasting, and build external design networks.
• Executive Development Programs: Access to leadership training and development programs designed for senior talent within Target.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a significant leadership role within a major retailer, offering substantial opportunities for career advancement. The "Design Director" title implies a pathway to VP or higher levels within the design and merchandising functions. The emphasis on "Owned Brands" means the role is crucial for Target's competitive edge, providing a platform for high-impact work and visible career growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement. This means the role requires a blend of in-office presence at the Target HQ in Minneapolis, MN, and remote work, based on the needs of the role, team, and specific tasks. Office Location(s): Target Headquarters, 1000 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403-2542. This is a central downtown Minneapolis location.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The Minneapolis HQ is designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and cross-functional interaction. Expect a dynamic environment with opportunities to connect with diverse teams.
• Design Resources: Access to design studios, material libraries, prototyping facilities (depending on specific team resources), and state-of-the-art design technology.
• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and opportunities for informal idea exchange with colleagues.
• Hybrid Flexibility: The arrangement allows for focused work, whether in a dedicated office space or a remote setting, balancing individual productivity with collaborative needs.

Work Schedule:

• While the standard is 40 hours per week, the nature of a Director-level role in a fast-paced retail environment often requires flexibility to meet deadlines, respond to market changes, and support global teams. The "Hybrid/Flex for Your Day" arrangement allows for some autonomy in managing the schedule, provided core responsibilities and collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Hybrid/Flex arrangement is a key aspect of the work environment, requiring strong self-management and communication skills to effectively balance onsite and remote work. The Minneapolis HQ is a central hub for Target's operations, offering a vibrant and resource-rich environment for design professionals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct a preliminary review of applications and conduct an initial screening call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A deeper dive into your experience, leadership philosophy, design approach, and specific expertise in Kitchen and Tabletop categories. This is where your portfolio will be a primary discussion point.
• Team/Peer Interviews: Meetings with key cross-functional partners (e.g., Merchandising Directors, Sourcing Managers) and potentially other design leaders. Focus will be on collaboration, strategic thinking, and your ability to integrate into the existing team.
• Presentation/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio review, a design challenge, or a strategic approach to a specific Kitchen and Tabletop business opportunity at Target. This assesses your presentation skills, strategic thinking, and ability to articulate design value.
• Final Round: Typically with senior leadership to assess executive presence, strategic alignment, and overall fit for the Director role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Impact: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects, with a strong emphasis on Kitchen and Tabletop. Showcase your best work that demonstrates strategic thinking, problem-solving, and successful market outcomes.
• Tell a Story: For each project, articulate the business objective, your role, the design process, key challenges, innovative solutions, and measurable results (e.g., sales impact, market share growth, guest satisfaction).
• Highlight Leadership: Demonstrate how you led teams, influenced stakeholders, and managed complex projects from concept to completion.
• Showcase Category Expertise: Clearly illustrate your understanding of materials, manufacturing, trends, and consumer behavior specific to Kitchen and Tabletop products.
• Visual Excellence: Ensure your portfolio is visually polished, professional, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality imagery and clear, concise descriptions.
• Target Alignment: Tailor your narrative to reflect Target's values of style, quality, and affordability, and how your work aligns with the "Target guest."

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Business: Research Target's current Kitchen and Tabletop offerings, their competitive landscape, and recent performance.
• Design Thinking: Be prepared to discuss your approach to solving design problems, identifying trends, and developing innovative product concepts within the specified category.
• Strategic Vision: Articulate your perspective on the future of Kitchen and Tabletop design and how you would lead a team to achieve Target's strategic objectives.
• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare for questions about team management, conflict resolution, cross-functional collaboration, and driving accountability.
• Data & Metrics: Be ready to discuss how you use data and metrics to inform design decisions and measure the success of your product launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Director-level role at a company like Target will be rigorous. The portfolio review is a critical component, serving as the primary evidence of your capabilities. Candidates should prepare to discuss not just the "what" but the "why" and "how" behind their design decisions and leadership approach.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign for visual design, mockups, and asset creation.
• 3D Design Software (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360): For product modeling, rendering, and prototyping, particularly for hardlines in Kitchen and Tabletop.
• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Systems: To manage product data, specifications, and workflows throughout the development process.
• Project Management Tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com): For task management, team coordination, and tracking project progress.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Target Analytics Platforms: Likely proprietary tools for sales data, consumer insights, and market performance analysis.
• Trend Forecasting Services: Subscriptions to services like WGSN, TrendWatching, or similar industry-specific trend analysis platforms.
• Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets: For data analysis, spreadsheet management, and basic reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Target Systems: Likely custom-built or integrated CRM and data management systems designed for retail operations.
• Collaboration Platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack): For internal communication, file sharing, and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific internal tools are proprietary, the emphasis is on proficiency with industry-standard design software and project management tools. A strong understanding of how to leverage data and analytics to inform design strategy is crucial, even if the specific platforms are internal to Target. Familiarity with PLM systems is often expected for product development leadership roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Guest Obsession: A deep understanding and focus on the Target guest's needs, desires, and shopping habits, particularly within the Kitchen and Tabletop context.
• Innovation & Creativity: A culture that encourages fresh ideas, bold design concepts, and a willingness to explore new materials and trends.
• Quality & Value: A commitment to delivering products that offer superior design and quality at accessible price points, a hallmark of Target's owned brands.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of working together across departments to achieve common goals and drive collective success.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Using insights from sales, consumer research, and market trends to inform design and business strategies.
• Efficiency & Agility: The ability to adapt to market changes, streamline processes, and deliver products effectively and on time.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The design team works seamlessly with merchandising, sourcing, marketing, and legal to bring products to life. Partnership is built on mutual respect and shared objectives.
• Open Communication: Encouragement of transparent and direct communication to resolve challenges and foster innovation.
• Feedback Culture: A willingness to give and receive constructive feedback to continuously improve product design and team performance.
• Shared Ownership: A collective responsibility for the success of Target's owned brands, fostering a sense of shared purpose and accountability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Target's core values are deeply embedded in its culture. For a Design Director, demonstrating alignment with these values—especially Guest Obsession, Innovation, and Collaboration—will be crucial for success in interviews and on the job. The "Kitchen and Tabletop" focus means understanding how these values translate into durable, stylish, and functional products for the home.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Trend & Timelessness: Identifying fleeting trends while ensuring designs have longevity and appeal to a broad guest base for Kitchen and Tabletop items.
• Cost vs. Quality vs. Design: Navigating the inherent tension between achieving Target's competitive price points, maintaining high quality standards, and delivering innovative design.
• Global Supply Chain Complexity: Managing relationships with diverse overseas manufacturers, ensuring ethical sourcing, quality control, and timely production in a complex global market.
• Rapid Market Evolution: Staying ahead of rapidly changing consumer preferences, material innovations, and competitor strategies within the dynamic retail landscape.
• Leading a Large, Diverse Team: Effectively managing, motivating, and developing a team of designers with varying skill sets and experience levels, often across different locations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Leadership Training: Access to Target's extensive leadership development programs to hone strategic management and executive presence skills.
• Industry Trend Immersion: Opportunities to attend major design and home goods trade shows, conferences, and workshops to stay at the forefront of industry innovation.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Deepen understanding of merchandising, sourcing, marketing, and retail operations through close collaboration and potential rotational opportunities.
• Mentorship Programs: Engage with senior leaders within Target for guidance on career progression, strategic challenges, and organizational navigation.
• Specialized Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, or consumer behavior analysis related to home goods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges reflect the high-stakes nature of this role within a major retailer. Successfully navigating these requires a combination of creative problem-solving, strategic foresight, strong leadership, and a deep understanding of the retail and design industries. The growth opportunities are significant, reflecting Target's investment in its senior talent.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a new product line for the Kitchen and Tabletop category, from initial trend identification to final product launch. How do you ensure it aligns with Target's product strategy, quality, and financial objectives?" (Focus on structured process, data integration, and strategic alignment.)
• "How would you foster innovation and maintain a strong creative vision within your design team while also managing budget constraints and production timelines for Target's owned brands?" (Highlight leadership approach, balancing creativity with commercial realities.)
• "Walk me through a time you successfully differentiated a product category in a competitive retail market. What was your strategy, and what were the results?" (Prepare a case study demonstrating strategic thinking and market impact.)
• "How do you approach collaborating with merchandising and sourcing teams to ensure design intent is translated effectively into production, especially with overseas partners?" (Emphasize communication, partnership, and problem-solving skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you admire about Target's owned brands, specifically in the Kitchen and Tabletop space? What opportunities do you see for further growth or innovation?" (Showcase research and understanding of Target's brand and market position.)
• "How do you align your design philosophy with the needs and aspirations of a broad consumer base like the 'Target guest'?" (Discuss your approach to consumer research and empathy.)
• "Describe your leadership style. How do you motivate and develop a design team, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Focus on coaching, mentorship, and fostering a positive team culture.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Begin with a high-level overview of your career and key strengths, highlighting your expertise in Kitchen and Tabletop design leadership.
• Storytelling: For each project, present a clear narrative: the challenge, your role and process, the solution, and the quantifiable business impact. Use compelling visuals.
• Strategic Rationale: Explain why you made certain design decisions, linking them back to consumer insights, market trends, and business objectives.
• Leadership Demonstration: Weave in examples of how you led teams, managed stakeholders, and overcame obstacles throughout the project lifecycle.
• Target Relevance: Explicitly connect your experience and approach to what you understand about Target's strategies, brand, and guest.
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about materials, manufacturing, cost implications, and competitive positioning.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design talent but also strategic leadership, business acumen, and a deep understanding of the retail environment and Target's specific market position. Quantifiable achievements and well-articulated case studies are essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Target's careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio that prominently features your most relevant work in Kitchen and Tabletop product design and development. Ensure it highlights leadership, strategic thinking, and quantifiable results.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords and experiences related to product design leadership, retail, owned brands, trend forecasting, team management, and the Kitchen and Tabletop category. Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, leadership philosophy, and strategic approach to common interview questions. Prepare to present your portfolio with confidence and clarity. Study Target's owned brands and their market positioning.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Target's mission, values, recent company news, and their approach to owned brands. Understand the "Target guest" and the company's strategic priorities in the Kitchen and Tabletop market.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.