Designer (Maternity Cover)

Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Menswear Designer to join our creative team on a 12 month maternity cover contract. In this role, you will take ownership of designing and executing high-quality, innovative products from concept through to launch. You will work closely with the Head of DNA to conceptualise and bring to market creative, on-brand Multi Product collections that reflect Represent's design aesthetics, attention to detail, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of streetwear fashion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design process and development of styles from concept to final launch, ensuring that all timelines are strictly adhered to.
• Lead, manage, and support Direct Reports by delegating responsibilities effectively and guiding them to achieve their goals and career development plans.
• Conceptualize and develop design ideas based on the vision and direction set by the Head of DNA, aligning with the overall brand aesthetic and market needs.
• Create world-class, on-brand product that reflects Represent's design aesthetics, with a focus on both creativity and craftsmanship.
• Continuously challenge industry norms and trends, positioning Represent as a leader in streetwear and setting the standard for others to follow.
• Travel to fabric trade fairs, vintage archives, staying informed about market trends, brand adjacencies, and emerging design directions.
• Conduct in-depth research on key fashion trends and looks for upcoming seasons.
• Cultivate commercial awareness and market knowledge to ensure designs are not only creative but also commercially viable.
• Prepare and present comprehensive mood boards and concepts for each category, ensuring alignment with the brand's vision and future product plans.
• Actively participate in design direction meetings, presenting new, innovative ideas that contribute to the team's overall design strategy.
• Select and nominate fabrics, trims, and materials for each collection, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious design where possible.
• Provide both creative and technical design expertise, ensuring that all garments are fit for purpose and meet the highest quality standards.
• Collaborate closely with the Head of DNA on the development of new fabrics, trims, and logo concepts, ensuring these align with the brand's core values and market positioning.
• Regularly maintain and update tech packs on PLM to reflect the most up-to-date product details and design progress have been communicated.
• Create detailed orientated Tech packs to hand over to the PD department ensuring accurate data entry to maintain streamlined workflows across departments, enabling factories to produce high-quality first prototypes with minimal revisions.
• Participate in fit sessions and prototype reviews, providing valuable input to ensure the fit and functionality of each style meet brand expectations.
• Stick to the critical path alongside the product team to ensure a balanced, commercially successful range plan is executed on time and within budget.
• Independently manage and organise your workload, ensuring the successful completion of all design tasks.
• Attend fit sessions and proto reviews, assisting the Technical Manager in these discussions to ensure all products meet the required fit standards.
• Travel as needed to meet with suppliers, factories, or attend industry events (travel details can be discussed with the candidate).

You have:

• 4 years Design experience.
• A passion for Menswear design and the branded market.
• A relevant degree.
• Travelled to factories and key style capitals.
• Knowledge and passion for sustainability.
• PLM experience.
• Garment construction knowledge
• Extensive knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Excel, PowerPoint & Word
• Experience working with Global Apparel brands.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
• Wellbeing day
• Increased holiday days with length of service
• Annual leave purchase scheme
• Company bonus scheme
• Electric vehicle scheme
• Staff discount
• £1,000 annual company gift card
• Private medical insurance
• Onsite gym