Swim SMU Manager

The Levy Group, Inc.; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading apparel manufacturer is seeking a skilled Swimwear Designer to manage product development in the Action Sports division. This full-time position involves collaboration with various teams to oversee the entire product lifecycle from concept to production. Ideal candidates have 4-6 years of experience in the swimwear industry and strong design skills, particularly in Adobe software and PLM systems.

Qualifications

• 4-6 years of Product Development or Design experience, specifically in the swimwear industry.
• Detail-oriented and multi-tasking abilities.
• Able to work collaboratively as a team player.

Responsibilities

• Manage the product development process and seasonal calendar for assigned product lines.
• Lead the creative process for SMU swim programs.
• Communicate all lab dip, strike off, fabric approvals, and sample approvals.
• Attend fittings alongside Design and Technical Design teams.

Skills

Product Development

Design

Microsoft Word

Excel

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Time management

Education

Degree in Product Development, Design, or related field

Tools

PLM systems

Job description

Base pay range

$85,000.00/yr - $95,000.00/yr

Company Background

With 80 years of industry expertise, The Levy Group remains one of the largest apparel manufacturers in the United States. Our commitment to outstanding quality, value, and customer service has enabled us to continually grow and innovate in a highly challenging marketplace. Our network has grown to over 300 retail partners, five international offices, a portfolio of iconic brand partners, and four proprietary brands.

The Levy Group designs, manufactures, imports, markets, and distributes outerwear, swimwear, dresses, activewear, men’s tailored clothing, and sportswear. Headquartered in New York City, The Levy Group manages, elevates, and builds the long-term value of consumer brands by partnering with best-in-class manufacturers and retailers.

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Swimwear Designer with strong Product Development experience to join our swim department within the Action Sports division. As the Swimwear SMU Manager, you will play a key role in the seasonal design and development process for all SMU swim products, while also supporting in-line collections as needed. This role offers the opportunity to merge creative and technical expertise, supporting the full product lifecycle from concept through production, within a fast-paced, surf & skate-focused business.

Who You Will Work With

You will report jointly to the Director of Product Development and the Director of Design, collaborating daily with Product Development, Design, and Technical Design teams. You’ll also partner cross-functionally with Merchandising, Sales, and Production.

Responsibilities

• Manage the product development process and seasonal calendar for assigned product lines.
• Lead the creative process for SMU swim programs with support from the Head of Design, partnering on color, print, fabric, and fit decisions.
• Communicate all lab dip, strike off, fabric approvals, and sample approvals.
• Create and manage CAD sketch line sheets for all SMU collections/styles.
• Order and track proto samples and salesman samples.
• Maintain daily communication with vendors; track development submits and sample progress.
• Collaborate with Sales, Production, & Merch to meet costing goals.
• Flag production issues and communicate updates to Merch and Sales.
• Build and maintain PLM tech packs, including style master, BOM, CAD sketches etc. in partnership with Technical Design
• Complete PLM pushes and validations to ensure data accuracy.
• Manage SMS order logs, keeping vendors and internal teams aligned on status.
• Attend fittings alongside Design and Technical Design teams.

Qualifications

• 4-6 years of Product Development or Design experience, specifically in the swimwear industry.
• Degree in Product Development, Design, or related field.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop
• Good organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented and multi-tasking abilities.
• Able to work collaboratively as a team player within the department and cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to learn and take direction.
• Familiarity with PLM systems to create and maintain tech packs is a plus (training available)

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Product Management and Management

Industries

Retail Apparel and Fashion

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