Design Manager

Vrg Grl; Brisbane; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

4-day work week

Job summary

VRG GRL is seeking a Design Manager to lead the design process from concept to final product at our Brisbane HQ. You will drive seasonal direction, manage workflows across multiple categories, and ensure collections align with the brand vision and customer expectations.

You will collaborate closely with Buying, Merchandising, Production, Marketing, Ecommerce, and Product Development teams to shape future VRG GRL collections while maintaining strong cross-functional partnerships.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in fashion design with leadership experience.
• Proven ability to lead design projects from concept to product.
• Strong understanding of commercial fashion and customer trends.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of seasonal collections from concept to final product.
• Research mood boards, colour palettes, trend forecasts and exclusive design concepts.
• Drive design thinking balancing commercial performance and customer demand.
• Oversee fabric, print, trims selections and finish across collections.
• Mentor Designers and Junior Designers; manage timelines and KPIs.
• Collaborate with Merchandising, Buying, Production, Marketing and Ecommerce teams.

Skills

Creative direction

Leadership

Team management

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Fashion design

Trend forecasting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Job description

VRG GRL is a glimpse into the minds of its creators. We feel through creativity and speak through colour. Behind our pieces you will find thoughtful silhouettes designed to fit with ease, hand-painted prints and fabrics you'll want to live in. We are passionate about inspiring women to find their style and feel confident. Our clothing is our second skin and we see the importance of being a brand that allows people to express who they are, through what they wear.

All VRG GRL’s products are 100% exclusive to VRG GRL. Our design team has carefully considered and meticulously designed each and every one of our products, making all VRG GRL pieces one of a kind.

We are now looking for a Design Manager to join our HQ team located in Newstead, Brisbane.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As the Design Manager at VRG GRL, you will be responsible for leading the design process from concept to final product, ensuring our collections are both creatively inspiring and commercially successful. This role drives seasonal design direction, manages workflow across multiple categories, and ensures collections align with the brand vision and customer expectations.

Working closely with Buying, Merchandising, Production, Marketing, Ecommerce, and Product Development teams, you will play a key role in shaping the future direction of VRG GRL collections while maintaining strong collaboration across the business.

This is a leadership role focused on driving creative excellence, developing high-performing teams, and delivering innovative collections that resonate with the VRG GRL customer.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

Creative Direction & Collection Development

Lead the design and development of seasonal collections from concept through to final product

Research and present mood boards, colour palettes, trend forecasts, and exclusive design concepts

Drive innovative design thinking while balancing commercial performance and customer demand

Ensure all collections align with the VRG GRL brand aesthetic and core customer profiles

Design Management

Create exclusive prints and source new fabric bases and trims

Oversee the selection of fabrics, colours, trims, and finishes across collections

Lead colour-up processes for best-selling styles and key product categories

Facilitate design reviews, critique sessions, and collaborative team rituals

Develop and improve design processes and resources to support efficient execution across Design and Production teams

Stay informed on global fashion trends, customer insights, and best-selling products to maximise commercial opportunities

Drive the development of capsule collections and special projects

Product Development & Technical Collaboration

Work closely with factories, Production, Garment Technicians, and Product Developers to ensure designs are executed accurately

Participate in fit sessions and communicate design intent clearly throughout development stages

Support the creation of detailed specification packs including CADs, measurements, and fabric details

Build and maintain strong relationships with manufacturing partners and suppliers

Leadership & Team Development

Manage, mentor, and develop a team of Designers and Junior Designers

Delegate tasks, provide feedback, and foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture

Drive accountability across timelines, quality standards, and departmental KPIs

Support ongoing learning, creativity, and professional growth within the Design team

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with Merchandising and Buying teams to align collections with range plans, pricing architecture, and margin targets

Collaborate with Production teams to maintain design integrity through sampling and manufacturing

Work closely with Marketing and Styling teams to bring the VRG GRL vision to life across campaigns and launches

Collaborate with Ecommerce, CX, and Returns teams to continuously improve product presentation and customer experience

Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and quality

ABOUT YOU

5+ years’ experience within the fashion industry

Degree or equivalent qualification in Fashion Design or a related field

Strong garment construction and technical design knowledge

Highly proficient in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop

Experience designing garments and prints within a fast-paced fashion environment

Creative, commercially aware, and adaptable to change

Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail

Proven ability to lead projects, manage timelines, and deliver high-quality outcomes

Passionate about fashion, product innovation, and customer experience

WHY JOIN US?

Certified B Corporation with a strong focus on sustainability and ethical production

Female-founded business with over 80% female leadership

Rapidly growing global brand headquartered in Brisbane

4-day work week based in our Newstead Head Office

A collaborative, creative, and high-performing team environment

Ongoing opportunities for growth and development

VRG GRL is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that embraces diversity and empowers everyone to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. We believe that a diverse team fuels innovation, creativity, and growth, and we welcome applicants. Together, we can drive a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and make a meaningful impact.