Design Lead, RRL Accessories & Footwear

Ralph Lauren; New York (NY); On-site; USD 98,000 - 186,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a Design Lead for RRL Accessories & Footwear to oversee and innovate product development. This role is pivotal in maintaining brand aesthetics while aligning with seasonal business goals. You will lead the design cycle, create compelling product assortments, and ensure timely execution. With a focus on storytelling and innovative design, this position offers the chance to influence trends and engage with diverse teams. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and have a passion for fashion, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to create designs supporting creative and commercial strategies.
• Strong technical knowledge of bag and footwear construction.

Responsibilities

• Designing product assortments that support brand aesthetic.
• Conducting research for new product ideas using vintage garments.

Skills

Design Creation

Storytelling

Project Management

Communication Skills

Technical Knowledge of Footwear

Cohesive Assortment Creation

Digital Tools Proficiency

Adobe Creative Suite

Team Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design

Bachelor’s degree in Accessories Design

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

3D Design Software

Job description

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Creative Talent Acquisition Lead, Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing, and distribution of premium lifestyle products across five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. With over 50 years of history, Ralph Lauren is recognized worldwide for its distinctive brand image, including Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, and Chaps.

At Ralph Lauren, we foster a culture of inclusion and belonging by amplifying diverse voices and perspectives through Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups, and Celebrations.

The Design Lead is responsible for overseeing the design and product development for the men’s and women’s Double RL Accessories and Footwear categories. This role involves maintaining the brand's aesthetic and ensuring alignment with seasonal business objectives.

Responsibilities include:

1. Designing compelling product assortments supporting the brand aesthetic and seasonal direction.
2. Conducting research to develop new product ideas using vintage garments, photos, tear sheets, sketches, fabric swatches, and trims.
3. Staying informed on market trends and runway shows for new fabrics, silhouettes, trims, prints, washes, and techniques.
4. Creating inspirational design boards, sketches, and color-ups to communicate ideas during the design process.
5. Leading the product design cycle and meeting all milestone deadlines.
6. Developing products aligned with line plans and seasonal strategies.
7. Ensuring detailed design hand-offs and clear development goals for timely execution.
8. Driving selection of prints, logos, colors, sizes, and placements as needed.
9. Reviewing and approving all product development submissions.
10. Communicating brand aesthetic and seasonal goals to regional teams, mills, and factories.
11. Traveling as required to support sourcing and development initiatives.

Salary range: $98,000 - $186,000 annually.

Experience, Skills & Knowledge:

• Proven ability to create designs supporting creative and commercial strategies.
• Storytelling and innovative design approach.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication skills and relationship-building abilities.
• Strong technical knowledge of bag and footwear construction, materials, and finishing techniques.
• Ability to create cohesive assortments across categories.
• Comfort with digital tools and processes.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite; 3D design skills are a plus.
• Affinity for vintage and brand knowledge.
• Experience managing teams and fostering growth.
• Bachelor’s degree in industrial, accessories, or fashion design preferred.

Additional Details:

• Seniority level: Director
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Design
• Industry: Retail Apparel and Fashion

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