Knitwear Designer Men’s And Boys - Supplier - Manchester

CVUK; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A global design-led apparel manufacturer is seeking a Senior Knitwear Designer to join their team in Manchester. This role requires expertise in knitwear design, including yarn development and garment construction. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience, a strong portfolio, and proficiency in design software. You will collaborate closely with international suppliers to create innovative collections aligned with market needs. This position offers opportunities for both UK and European travel.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years' experience in knitwear design.
• Proven experience with international manufacturers, preferably in Bangladesh.
• Strong portfolio showcasing technical knowledge of knitwear.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of seasonal knitwear collections.
• Oversee the knitwear development process from concept to final product.
• Conduct in-depth research into knitwear trends and innovations.

Skills

Technical knowledge of knitwear

Stitch development

Yarn innovation

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator

Trend awareness

Education

Degree in Fashion Design or related field

Tools

Design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop)

Job description

Our client is a global design‑led apparel manufacturer and supply chain manager. Creating the highest quality and affordable product to fit their customers' needs, working with brands and retailers across UK, EU, USA and Canada.

Job Title: Senior Knitwear Designer - Men's & Boys ( Baby, Toddler, Younger and Older Boys)

Location: Manchester

About the Role

We are looking for a highly skilled and creative Senior Knitwear Designer to join our design team. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of knitwear design, yarn development, stitch techniques, and garment construction, alongside experience working directly with international suppliers and factories, particularly in Bangladesh. This is a hands‑on role where you will lead the design and development of innovative, trend‑led knitwear that balances creativity, quality, and commercial viability.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Creative Development

• Lead the creation of seasonal knitwear collections.
• Develop original designs, technical sketches, and mood boards informed by market research, yarn innovation, and global trend insights.
• Ensure collections align with brand identity, customer expectations, and commercial goals.

Yarn, Stitch & Material Innovation

• Source and recommend yarns, trims, and finishes suitable for a variety of knitwear styles, ensuring alignment with quality, sustainability, and cost requirements.
• Experiment with stitches, gauges, and fabric structures to deliver fresh and innovative designs.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers to explore new developments and technologies.

Product Development

• Oversee the knitwear development process from concept through to final product.
• Provide clear technical packs, stitch details, and specifications to factories.

Supplier & Production Collaboration

• Work closely with our office and factories in Bangladesh to manage timelines, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure design integrity is maintained throughout production.

Trend & Market Research

• Conduct in-depth research into knitwear trends, yarn innovations, consumer preferences, and competitor activity.
• Stay updated on sustainable practices, knitting technologies, and advancements in fibre development.
• Carry out inspo and development trips internationally.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with merchandising, production, and sales teams to ensure collections are commercially relevant, production-ready, and aligned with market needs.

You will be required to travel to both UK and European customers regularly.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Degree in Fashion Design, Knitwear Design, Textile Design, or related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years' experience in knitwear design, ideally across men's and boys categories.
• Strong portfolio showcasing technical knowledge of knitwear, stitch development, and yarn innovation.
• Proven experience working with international manufacturers, with a preference for experience in Bangladesh.
• Proficiency in design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or equivalent CAD systems for knitwear).
• Strong technical understanding of knitwear construction, yarn properties, and garment finishing.
• Excellent trend awareness, colour sense, and ability to translate concepts into commercially viable designs.
• Outstanding communication and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Collaborative, solutions‑focused approach with strong attention to detail.