Manager, Designer - Leather Goods

About the company:
Headquartered in Switzerland, Nues is a creator, artisan & innovator of high-quality objects. (Name originated from A Mains Nues (à mains nues [/a mɛ̃ ny], French for "With Bare Hands")

With concentration on the highest craft, our mission is to create exceptional, next generation objects with new thinking. Our team is goal-driven, highly motivated, and focused on product excellence to delight customers.

We are looking for individuals who want to push boundaries and develop the most iconic products in the world. We have a flat organizational structure. All team members are expected to be hands-on and to contribute. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. There are no limits to achievement and growth. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important.

If you are the above, join us.

About the Role

As the Leather Goods Design Manager, you will lead the creation of our luxury handbag collections, turning ideas into standout designs. Working with the Creative Director and other teams, you'll guide the process from sketch to production, ensuring every piece meets our high standards of quality and creativity.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead design projects, developing innovative concepts and translating them into functional, luxurious handbags.
• Collaborate with the Creative Director to create collections that align with the brand's aesthetic, quality, and strategic vision.
• Create and refine technical sketches, detailed design specifications, and prototypes.
• Oversee the development of prototypes, ensuring they meet design, quality, and production standards.
• Provide guidance to junior designers and assist in developing their skills and design approach.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (Production, Development, Quality Control) to ensure designs are executed accurately.
• Maintain and update design archives, collection plans, and design documentation.
• Lead design reviews and creative presentations, showcasing new ideas, prototypes, and collections.
• Drive innovation by exploring new materials, techniques, and design processes.
• Stay informed on industry trends and competitor collections, ensuring our designs remain at the forefront of luxury fashion.

Who You Are:

• You hold a degree in Applied Arts, Fashion Design, or related field.
• You bring 5+ years of experience in handbag or fashion accessory design with a portfolio that showcases your leadership in design and innovation.
• You are proficient in freehand sketching and 3D modeling tools (e.g., Rhino, Solidworks).
• You are skilled in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• You have a deep understanding of luxury fashion, with a passion for craftsmanship and design excellence.
• You're a strong leader who communicates well, supports junior designers, and handles multiple projects on tight deadlines.
• You are adaptable, with a keen ability to respond to feedback and evolving design needs.
• Fluency in English is a must, with French and Italian considered a plus.