About Rip Curl
Founded in Torquay in 1969, Rip Curl is The Ultimate Surfing Company, born from a relentless pursuit for waves, adventure, and freedom, called ‘The Search’. Today, The Search continues to inspire all that we do, from the products we make, the events we run, the athletes we support, and the values we strive to uphold. Built by surfers, for surfers, Rip Curl is a global company that has been leading the surf industry for over 50 years. As a certified B Corp, we aim to prioritise people and planet in everything we do. The Search is calling… apply today and become part of The Ultimate Surfing company.
About the role….
Rip Curl is on the hunt for a visionary Boardshort Design Director to lead our global men’s boardshorts category. Based at our iconic Torquay headquarters, this newly created role is a rare opportunity to shape the future of performance and lifestyle boardshorts for the world’s Ultimate Surfing Company.
As the global leader of Men’s Boardshorts Design, you’ll drive innovation, fit, and fabric performance across our range, ensuring every product is built for the Search. You’ll inspire and lead a talented design crew, collaborate across departments, and deliver market-leading products that reflect Rip Curl’s heritage and push boundaries in surf wear.
Key Responsibilities

Design & Innovation

• Lead the design of boardshort ranges with a focus on trend, colour, fit, fabric, and styling.
• Champion innovation in performance and sustainability across the men’s boardshort category.
• Ensure product ranges reflect customer segmentation and global market needs.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Motivate and develop a high-performing design team within the hub.
• Collaborate with Head of Product, Head of Design, and global teams to ensure strategic alignment.
• Partner with the Swimwear Design Director to share synergies and solve challenges.

Creative Direction

• Oversee the creation of graphics, artworks, trims, and yardages that elevate the brand.
• Ensure consistency in fabrication, construction, and fit across the boardshort range.
• Uphold seasonal creative direction and messaging across all men’s categories.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in apparel design, ideally within surf, sport or lifestyle brands.
• Deep understanding of garment construction, fabric innovation, and trend forecasting.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and grow a creative team.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Passion for Rip Curl’s brand, values, and customers.

Why Rip Curl?
At Rip Curl, we live and breathe the surf lifestyle. You’ll be part of a passionate crew, working in a stunning coastal location, with access to world-class waves and a culture that celebrates adventure, creativity, and sustainability.
Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands
At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.
We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.
We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.
Click APPLY and join us on The Search.
Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled

Please refer the Job description for details