Natalie Paradis

Global Design Operations @ The North Face | Strategic, High-EQ People, Programs, & Design Operations Leader | Driving Culture, Clarity & Cross-Functional Execution | Former Nike, Jordan, Converse, Mattel

United States

About

I’m a strategic operator and people champion with 18+ years of experience leading high-impact programs, cross-functional initiatives, and organizational change at iconic brands like Nike, Jordan, and Converse. I specialize in translating big-picture vision into scalable actions and programs that align people, process, and strategy—while fostering culture and creativity along the way. Throughout my career, I’ve been a trusted thought partner to senior executives and creative leaders, known for building clarity in complexity, driving operational excellence, and enabling teams to deliver their best work. Whether it’s standing up a new function, navigating transformation, or streamlining design teams globally, I bring a people-centered, systems-thinking approach that balances empathy with execution. I’ve led global HR programs, Design operations, built talent innovation programs, created enterprise-wide talent and planning frameworks, and supported organizations through periods of intense growth and ambiguity. My superpower is helping leaders and teams move from chaos to clarity - aligning strategy with action, and vision with velocity. Now, I’m looking to bring that same energy to a mission-driven organization where I can continue to shape culture, accelerate impact, and build the connective tissue that helps companies - and people - thrive.

Experience

  • Global Design Operations at The North Face
    Dec 2025 - Present · 8 mos

    Global Design Operations Leader across Apparel (Lifestyle and Performance), Footwear, Equipment, and Accessories at The North Face.

  • Principal at Wanderlight Consulting, LLC
    Mar 2025 - Present · 1 yr 5 mos

    I partner with creative and people-first organizations to turn big ideas into real results. Drawing on 17 years in operations, people strategy, and program leadership, I help teams find focus, streamline how work gets done, and build frameworks that make great work sustainable.

  • Director, Design Operations and Innovation Programs at Mattel, Inc.
    Dec 2024 - Mar 2025 · 4 mos

    • Spearheaded strategic and operational initiatives to boost creativity, efficiency, and profitable growth across design functions. • Led Innovation Programs & Design Operations, integrating workshops, trainings, AI tools, and partnerships to elevate team performance and increase revenue. • Spearheaded brand storytelling strategy and content capture production, developing brand narratives, key messaging, shot lists, and communications plans. • Drove consumer-centric innovation strategies, uncovering whitespace opportunities and guiding new product development.

  • Nike (9 yrs)
    • Design Operations Director, Global Product Design
      Jan 2023 - Jun 2024 · 1 yr 6 mos

    • Global Talent Programs Director, Global HR | Global DEI
      Sep 2019 - Jan 2023 · 3 yrs 5 mos

    • Nike PRIDE Network ERG Leadership Team
      Aug 2019 - Jan 2023 · 3 yrs 6 mos

      Nike's LGBTQIA+ ERG - Communications Pillar, Membership Pillar

  • Founder, COO | Creative Studio Management at NKCreative
    Jun 2007 - Jul 2015 · 8 yrs 2 mos

    • Founded and led marketing operations for a digital and brand marketing agency, overseeing project management, budgeting, and resource allocation to deliver successful client projects across multiple industries. • Managed design teams and project timelines, successfully driving innovative marketing strategies and operational efficiency. • Drove business growth and client satisfaction through innovative marketing strategies and a strong focus on operational efficiencies and project excellence across a wide range of clients and industries.