Senior Derivative Design Director

Location: Bangkok
Discipline: FMCG
Job type: Permanent
Salary: THB 200000 - THB 245000
Published: Posted about 16 days ago

Client Description

Our client is the leading Asia-based esports ecosystem company, specializing in top-tier tournament operations, IP development, and commercialization of derivative products. They partners with global game publishers and brands to deliver large-scale competitive events, while also building and monetizing proprietary esports IP through content, merchandise, and fan engagement initiatives.

With a strong presence across multiple Asian markets, it focuses on integrating esports with entertainment, lifestyle, and youth culture. Its business spans online and offline experiences, including live events, digital content, brand collaborations, and retail-driven merchandise strategies.

Role Description

As my client is expanding their presence in the Thai market, they are seeking a local expert who combines strong design capability with a deep understanding of esports. This role will focus on creating trend-driven derivative products that resonate with Thai players and fans.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the creative design, concept development, and visual execution of esports IP derivative products (e.g., merchandise, collectibles, apparel, digital collectibles), ensuring alignment with Thai market aesthetics and cultural preferences.
• Develop derivative product strategies based on esports industry trends, user insights, and market data; optimize product portfolio and enhance commercial value.
• Conduct in-depth research on Thai youth behavior, consumption habits, and cultural elements (e.g., traditional art, pop culture, festivals) and incorporate them into product design to strengthen relevance and appeal.
• Monitor competitor activities and market feedback; continuously refine design direction to ensure product differentiation and competitiveness.
• Recruit, develop, and manage a local design team (including designers, illustrators, 3D artists, etc.) based on business needs, and establish efficient collaboration workflows.
• Set team goals and performance frameworks; enhance team capability and creative output, ensuring high-quality project delivery.
• Explore new derivative business models (e.g., brand collaborations, offline pop-ups, e-commerce expansion), leading projects from concept to execution.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (marketing, operations, supply chain) to ensure design feasibility, production efficiency, and cost control.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or above in a design-related field (e.g., Visual Communication, Product Design, Illustration)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in derivative product design; must provide a portfolio showcasing successfully led projects (e.g., IP merchandise, collectibles, cultural or creative products).
• Proven experience in team management, including building and leading design teams; familiar with collaboration tools and project management processes.
• Based in Thailand; native Thai speaker, proficient in English (or Chinese) with strong cross-cultural communication skills.
• Strong understanding of Thai culture, trends, and consumer market; experience with local brands or esports/entertainment-related derivative design is preferred.
• Proficient in design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, 3D modeling software); strong skills in illustration, layout, and 3D rendering.
• Ability to manage the full pipeline from concept to production; knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and cost structures for derivative products.
• Passion for the esports industry, with strong awareness of gaming and trend culture.