Design Manager - Contemporary

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Must have a creative vision to drive the seasonal design development process from concept to delivery.
• Craft original, trend-appropriate designs that drive sales for key accounts
• Accounts include Kohls, Walmart, Macy's, Ross
• Research and identify trend directions; create concept/mood boards, analyze collections, shop stores; perform competitive analysis; pull and review fabrics, design concepts, presentation decks for meetings
• Identify and design key items with a strong brand identity
• Execute development of the initial seasonal design category in the context of a larger assortment and cost structure
• Develop concepts for special design projects to expand categories into new areas or customers.
• Categories: Bottoms, Knit and Woven Tops, and Dresses for Contemporary Womans
• Work with the tech team to ensure proper fit and end use
• Work with Cad Designers to develop original prints, textile, and embroidery designs
• Create Illustrator sketches; review line sheets; develop tech packs
• Source, select, and review raw materials and trims to ensure they are within price points
• Approve aesthetic and quality of print strike-offs, fabric, and trims
• Customers & Relationships
• Coordinate follow-up with internal and external customers and partners, including technical design, production, and vendors; manager interoffice communication
• Build collaborative relationships with vendors and internal customers
• Leadership & Teams
• Contribute positively to the team dynamic and manage where necessary

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• 6 + years experience in apparel design
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe products
• Superior organizational skills and excellent communication skills; team-oriented
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines; highly detail-oriented, meticulous, and creative
• Creativity and sensibility for merchandising; ability to sketch
• Technical capability, proficient understanding of construction, and expression of fit.
• Extensive knowledge of garment construction, pattern making, silhouettes, colorways, sewing techniques, fabrication, and trim; familiarity with print design and manufacturing
• Bachelors Degree in Fashion Design

COMPENSATION

• Salary $80,000 - $100,000 dependent on experience
• Hybrid 4 / 1 WFH (NYC Midtown)
• Comprehensive Benefits - including Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, company holidays