Design Manager – Womens Softs – London

A fabulous opportunity to join a very successful supplier to high street retailers and supermarkets.

Role Overview – Design Manager Softs

We are looking for a Womenswear Design Manager (Softs) who can confidently lead the Design direction, in close partnership with the Sales Team. This role is pivotal in shaping a commercially strong and brand-appropriate collection, from initial strategy through to final range presentation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth trend research and create seasonal mood boards, colour palettes, and fabric stories.
• Using fabric sources to create, design and develop collections for two large UK commercial retailers.
• Design innovative, fashion-forward yet commercially viable garments, including blouses, dresses, shorts, skirts, loose jackets etc.
• Select appropriate fabrics, trims, and prints in collaboration with the fabric sourcing and print design teams.
• Oversee sample development and work closely with garment techs on fit, construction, and quality standards.
• Present collections internally and to key wholesale clients, taking on board feedback and adapting ranges where necessary.
• Manage a team of Designers and Assistants to all deliver the same objective.
• Collaborate with the sales team and other departments.
• Liaise with buyers, merchandisers, and production teams to ensure collections meet cost and margin requirements.
• Monitor competitor activity and market trends to inform design direction.
• Support and mentor junior designers and assistants within the team.
• Maintain the critical path and ensure timely delivery of samples and production ready designs.

The Candidate

Qualifications:

• At least 5-10 years of experience in Womenswear
• At least 10 years + people management skills and experience in managing Teams is essential
• Strong work ethic, willing to go the extra mile.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, confident presenter.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Good eye for commercial product and trends.
• Passionate, enthusiastic, shows initiative.
• A strong interest and understanding of the industry, what’s happening on the high street, catwalks and social media.
• Commercial awareness – interpreting and translating trends to meet the customer profile.
• Good knowledge of garment construction and fitting.
• Understands the remits of sustainability in this industry and can support processes around this.
• Excellent photoshop and illustrator skills.

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