Max Steffen
About Max Steffen
Max Steffen serves as the Global Design Director Equipment at The North Face, where he leads a team focused on inclusivity and sustainability in outdoor equipment. He has a background in industrial design, having founded his own office and worked with various companies across Europe before joining The North Face in 2018.
Current Role at The North Face
Max Steffen serves as the Global Design Director Equipment at The North Face, a VF Company, since 2018. In this role, he leads a team of eight in-house designers, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability in technical outdoor equipment. He plays a key role in driving the brand vision through product design and oversees the development of inline products, future concepts, and collaborations with athletes and brands.
Previous Experience in Industrial Design
Prior to his current position, Max Steffen founded Max Steffen | Office for Industrial Design, where he worked for six years in Brussels from 2012 to 2018. He has also held various roles as an industrial designer, including positions at Côte&Ciel, Vodafone, and Ogilvy & Mather. His freelance work included projects for Paco Rabanne and Ogilvy & Mather, showcasing his versatility in the field.
Education and Expertise
Max Steffen studied Industrial Design at HFG Pforzheim, where he achieved a Diplom. His expertise includes designing lifestyle bags, luggage, wallets, headwear, and gloves. This educational background and specialized knowledge contribute to his effectiveness in product design and development.
Background in Design
Max Steffen has a diverse background in industrial design, having worked in various cities including Paris, Düsseldorf, and Brussels. His experience spans multiple sectors, allowing him to develop a broad skill set in product design. His work has involved both freelance and full-time positions, reflecting his adaptability and commitment to the design industry.