Design Manager - Kidswear

wowJobs; Fatih; On-site; TRY 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

wowJobs is seeking an experienced senior kidswear designer with 10-16 years in fashion retail. You will lead the design team, shape seasonal ranges, and partner with buyers and designers to ensure a cohesive brand message.

You will mentor designers, stay ahead of industry trends and technologies, and coordinate with marketing/e-commerce for campaigns while maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Qualifications

• 10-16 years of proven professional experience in designing kidswear within fashion retail.
• A BA qualification in Fashion Design is required.

Responsibilities

• Research, interpret and apply market trends appropriate to the brand/ target customer across Kidswear category.
• Lead seasonal range building with buyers and designers.
• Manage creative and technical development of product.
• Build consistency across product lines to deliver a clear message.
• Collaborate with Head of Design and team on seasonal directions.
• Lead product and trend presentations.
• Develop and mentor the team to ensure quality and authenticity.

Skills

Kidswear design

Fashion retail

Team leadership

Trend research

Education

BA in Fashion Design

Job description

Experience: 10-16 years of proven professional experience in designing kidswear within fashion retail.

Education: A minimum of a BA Qualification in Fashion Design

Key Responsibilities

• Research, interpret and apply market trends appropriate to the brand/ target customer across Kidswear category
• Lead effective seasonal range building with buyers and designers.
• Manage creative and technical development of product.
• Build consistency throughout product lines to ensure a clear message is delivered while continuing to grow as an authentic, value fashion retailer.
• Work closely with the Head of Design & team members on seasonal and monthly trend direction.
• Lead product and trend presentations.
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with internal (buying, planning, quality, sourcing, visual merchandising, marketing, Ecommerce) and external partners (suppliers and factories if the need arises).
• Plan and drive seasonal ranges and tech packs in a fast-paced environment, as per the set critical path.
• Lead and manage a team of designers (at different levels).
• Develop and mentor the team to ensure standards of quality, creativity and authenticity are upheld.
• Attend weekly/monthly trade meetings and share key learnings with the team.
• Respond effectively and quickly to change in trade/ market conditions.
• Manage the performance of the team – set annual performance goals & KPIs, monitor performance and provide constructive feedback and coaching to improve team performance.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, promoting creativity, innovation, and teamwork.
• Stay knowledgeable about industry best practices and emerging technologies and implement them into the design process as appropriate.
• Liaise with the Marketing & E-com teams to provide creative inspiration for rolling monthly campaigns.