MAC Associate Design Director, Global Events and Retail Experiences

About MAC

MAC is a pioneering professional makeup authority, renowned for its artistry, inclusivity, and influential role in shaping contemporary beauty culture. Founded in Toronto in 1984 and now part of The Estée Lauder Companies, the brand empowers employees to champion self-expression, creativity, and diversity across retail, education, product innovation, and consumer experience. As an employer, MAC offers a dynamic, fast-paced environment where artistry meets commercial excellence, encouraging talent to develop deep product expertise, client relationships, and cultural awareness. Its heritage of supporting all ages, races, and genders continues to define a workplace built on bold ideas, collaboration, and authentic individuality.

Role & Responsibilities

• Work with the Executive Director to develop and research innovative design concepts, trends, and technologies for event campaigns and in-store retail experiences including window displays, product demonstration tables, and makeup consultation environments
• Manage design projects from initial concept through execution, ensuring adherence to defined timelines and brand standards
• Develop and present multiple design concepts with ability to visualize and render professional-quality artwork for window displays and event installations
• Produce comprehensive 2D and 3D renderings and technical documentation for all retail environments and special events using industry-standard software
• Maintain thorough knowledge of MAC brand identity and aesthetic principles with extraordinary attention to detail in all creative deliverables
• Collaborate with cross-functional design teams to produce complete design packets for regional execution and implementation
• Understand and apply 3D modeling principles to provide daily support to the Retail Experience team and external collaborators
• Research and stay current with latest event design trends, retail technologies, and material innovations
• Track and monitor all stages of the creative process to ensure project timelines are met and brand standards are upheld
• Attend global cross-functional meetings to understand project deliverables, timelines, and technical requirements
• Organize and maintain a comprehensive library of design-related creative assets and reference materials
• Contribute to the Design Manual and fixture library for ongoing brand consistency
• Assist on-site with NYC area retail installations and event setups as needed
• Communicate project details and updates to stakeholders and regional markets with clarity and professionalism

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (BA or BFA) in Interior Design, Stage and Set Design, Architecture, or related discipline
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in one or more of the following: creative agency work, event design, retail store design, graphic design, or visual merchandising
• Advanced proficiency in 3D modeling software including SketchUp and Rhino
• Comprehensive technical knowledge of AutoCAD for 2D drafting and technical drawings
• Proficiency in 3D rendering software including Rhino and KeyShot
• Expert-level skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop)
• Knowledge of CadTools and other design optimization software
• Ability to quickly hand-sketch design concepts and communicate visually in fast-paced meetings
• Solid understanding of fixture design, set design, stage design, and fabrication/production processes
• Knowledge of fabrication, printing, and prop materials used in retail and event environments
• Model building and hand-crafting skills with comfortable aptitude for light physical labor
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Slack, Trello, and Google Workspace
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong visual communication abilities
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills with ability to prioritize multiple simultaneous projects
• Strong collaborative mindset with outstanding interpersonal skills and team spirit
• Demonstrated passion for cosmetic retail, beauty innovation, and entrepreneurial work environments
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines with consistent self-management

Skills

Experience

5+ years of professional experience in creative agency work, event design, retail store design, graphic design, visual merchandising, or a closely related field. Experience in luxury retail environments or prestige beauty brands is advantageous. Demonstrated ability to manage complex design projects from concept through installation, with proven success delivering innovative, world-class creative solutions within established brand guidelines.

Education

Bachelor's degree (BA or BFA) in Interior Design, Stage and Set Design, Architecture, or a related discipline is required.

Compensation

The base compensation for this position ranges from USD 87,550 to USD 143,800 per annum.

Benefits

Health insurance coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance), wellness and family support programs, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plans, paid leave programs, education-related programs, paid holidays and vacation time, competitive bonus program with potential for overachievement based on performance and company results

Culture

MAC fosters a dynamic, artist-led workplace where creativity, individuality, and inclusive self-expression are central to the employee experience. The brand offers a fast-paced, collaborative environment in which beauty professionals are encouraged to build their artistry, connect authentically with diverse clients, and represent a bold global point of view.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.