Retail jobs in South Africa

Our Retail client based in Dubai is currently recruiting for a Kidswear Design Manager. If you are looking to make a move to the UAE, then this opportunity is for YOU!

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise the design-to-development lifecycle, from concept sketches and CADs to technical packs and sample approvals.
• Liaise with sourcing, vendors, and mills to ensure material, trim, and embellishment choices meet cost and quality benchmarks.
• Ensure all design and development activities are executed within budget, without compromising brand aesthetics or fit.
• Develop product and packaging material sourcing plans focused on cost optimization and efficiency.
• Research global fashion trends, kidswear-specific innovations, and customer preferences across kidswear markets.
• Analyze consumer behavior, competitive landscape, and market intelligence to inform collection direction.
• Attend trade shows, digital trend portals, and market visits to gather insights on new materials, techniques, and inspirations.
• Partner with Buying, Merchandising, Planning, Sourcing, and Technical teams to ensure cohesive seasonal ranges, on-time delivery, and commercial success.
• Present seasonal design direction and collection line-ups to leadership and business teams.
• Support Marketing and Visual Merchandising with product storytelling and launch inputs.
• Lead and mentor a multi-category design team, overseeing work planning, delegation, quality control, and creative alignment.
• Set KPAs and development goals for team members, driving high performance through feedback, coaching, and reviews.
• Foster a positive, creative, and innovative studio culture.
• Monitor team welfare and resolve escalations with leadership maturity and empathy.
• Own the design strategy for children's wear (014 yrs), aligning seasonal direction with business goals and customer insights.
• Define product architecture and creative vision across categories, ensuring clarity in silhouettes, color stories, fabrics, and trims.
• Ensure brand consistency and alignment with group aesthetic, values, and customer expectations.
• Provide recommendations on seasonal edits, line structure, and style innovations.

Personal Attributes and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design, or related field.
• 8-10 years of experience in kidswear/apparel design, with at least 3 years in a managerial role overseeing multiple categories.
• Strong technical knowledge in garment construction, children's sizing, trims, fits, and materials.
• Understanding of private label retail, cost structures, and seasonal calendars.
• Proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, PLM systems, and CAD tools.
• Proven leadership skills to manage teams, deadlines, and cross-functional collaborations.