Zihaad Wells is a dynamic creative force, possessing an intimate grasp of the branded apparel landscape, constantly pushing the boundaries of product design and brand marketing. His collaborative spirit thrives within team environments, where he serves not only as a leader but as an empowering force, ensuring that each team member operates at their fullest potential even when operating independently. His philosophy hinges on fostering a culture where excellence is nurtured, enabling team members to step up when called upon. Through his leadership, Wells demonstrates the symbiotic relationship between creativity and revenue growth, showcasing that they are indeed intertwined facets of success in the industry.

TRUE RELIGION

GLOBAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR

2019 - Present

  • Responsible for setting the Brand direction and aesthetics across all categories, including licensing.

  • Manage Design, and Brand Marketing Creative Teams

  • Built the True Creator program, which helps young up and coming designers through collaboration, by using our platform to raise their profile and be part of an authentic design conversation.

  • Brought collaborations to life with Brands like Supreme, Anti Social Social Club, Playboy, Jeff Hamilton and more.

AG JEANS

VP OF DESIGN & CREATIVE

Jan ‘19 - Dec 19

  • Manage Design, and Brand Marketing Creative Teams

  • Responsible for setting the design direction and aesthetics of the brand across all categories.

  • Direction for all creative content including digital, print, OOH and organic social.

HUDSON JEANS

VP OF DESIGN

2017 - 2018

  • Complete re-design of the Hudson brand product and packaging aesthetics

  • Responsible for setting the design direction and aesthetics of the brand across all categories including Licensees.

  • Managing a team of 7 Designers and 2 pattern makers.

  • Working closely with the Marketing team and PR agencies, on brand messaging and creative.

TRUE RELIGION

VP OF DESIGN & INNOVATION

SNR DIRECTOR OF DESIGN

2006 - 2017

  • Responsible for setting the design direction and aesthetics of the brand across Full price retail, Outlets and Wholesale accounts, including global partners and Licensees and Private Label.

  • Managing a team of 18 Designers, illustrators and pattern makers

  • Working closely with the Brand Marketing team to ensure that the brand positioning and product are aligned.

LEVI’S

CREATIVE MANAGER PREMIUM

SENIOR DESIGNER

DESIGNER PREMIUM

1998 - 2004

  • ·Manage a team of 7 Designers

  • Responsible for design direction of Levi’s Red and Levis Vintage Clothing

  • Global travel to major cities LA, NYC, London, Tokyo and Europe.

  • Provide overall direction for seasonal concepts, directing team members and participating (in the compilation of mood boards.

EDUCATION

1994 - 1998

UAL: LONDON COLLEGE OF FASHION

BA HONORS FASHION DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

AWARDS

  • ROYAL SOCIETY OF ARTS - WINNER STUDENT DESIGN AWARDS ‘98

  • EXCELLENCE AWARD - LEVI STRAUSS & CO ‘02