Associate Creative Director, 3D Visual Merchandising

Company: Apple
Location: Cupertino
Posted on: March 6, 2026

Job Description:

Marcom is the creatively-led global team that oversees Apple’s consumer facing marketing. We ensure the flawless development and execution of world-class communications across all medias and platforms. Every day, hundreds of millions of Apple customers around the world interact with our products. We drive the strategy and creative work that provide both new and existing customers with simple, engaging and inspiring marketing experiences. Apple’s 3D/Visual Merchandising (3DVM) team manages the development of physical deliverables in support of the Marcom group’s initiatives and creative intent. Our responsibilities include developing and deploying complex visual merchandising experiences, installations, fixtures, furniture, and design solutions for the company’s worldwide retail and channel partners. The 3DVM team collaborates with a wide range of cross functional partners, including ID, Product Marketing, Sales and Channel Operations and works closely with internal teams such as Interactive, Design and Strategy. Description As the Associate Creative Director for the 3DVM Channel team, you will lead a multi-disciplinary group of designers focused on creating innovative and inspiring retail experiences and guide the design development of the physical store environments, fixtures and product presentation tools in Apple’s Channel programs. Responsibilities Develop concepts and designs, through an iterative process, to meet objectives on projects that span between physical fixture, spatial and experience design. Translate briefs into clear, actionable work aligned with project timelines. Partner with ACDs of Visual Merchandising and Store Planning to design with a focus on the full customer journey and ensure all touchpoints enhance the overall experience. Collaborate closely with internal Marcom cross-functional partners, including Channel XF, 2D design and Interactive teams, as well as external partners including Channel Sales and Operations, Engineering, Industrial Design and Product Marketing. Regularly present work to Creative Director, incorporating feedback and ensuring alignment with broader initiatives. Participate in meetings with senior leadership and present design intent to cross-functional partners effectively. Minimum Qualifications 10 years of experience in retail design and/or related experience, with 3 years experience managing small teams A portfolio of work demonstrating a thorough understanding of retail and in-store experience design and clear examples of work in context across a range of spatial experiences Proficiency in 3D modeling and visualization software on Mac OS platforms (Rhino, Cinema 4D and/or Keyshot preferred) and Adobe Creative Suite Knowledgeable in manufacturing and prototyping process and general construction and engineering principles Degree or equivalent experience Architecture, Interior Architecture, Experience Design, Industrial Design or related field Preferred Qualifications Excellent design skills accompanied by the ability to guide, evaluate and, if necessary, redirect creative development. Experience leading the development of large scale retail initiatives and managing the lifecycle of retail store concepts Skilled in systematic thinking, able to shift fluidly from high-level strategy to focused attention to detail Ability to lead junior creative staff members, vendors and freelancers providing guidance and mentorship Demonstrated ability to proactively build rapport, credibility and influence to drive results throughout a matrix organization Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate design ideas and present work to Creative Director and executive leadership Highly organized and efficient; adept at time management and able to meet tight deadlines Pay & Benefits At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $191,400 and $288,000, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits. Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Keywords: Apple, Rancho Cordova , Associate Creative Director, 3D Visual Merchandising, Engineering , Cupertino, California