Head of Design

Paul Smith is one of Britain’s leading independent design companies. We champion positivity, curiosity and creativity. These qualities underpin every Paul Smith design, whether it’s a shirt, a shop or a special collaboration. Reaffirming the values that Paul set down in 1970, ‘classic with a twist’ remains the guiding principle of the company. Happily positioned between high fashion and formalwear, while taking reference from both, Paul Smith has always been proud to stand apart.

We have an exciting new opportunity for a Head of Design to join our Menswear team, specifically focusing on our PS Paul Smith collection. You will work in close collaboration with the Design Director, Men's PS Coordinator and Design team, whilst taking responsibility for the design and development of the Men's PS Paul Smith ready-to-wear collections.

**The Role**
Responsible for the design and development of Men’s Pre and Main PS collections from initial ideas and concepts to final presentation.
Be accountable for research and execution into themes, colour cards and product development. Research and final selection of materials and techniques.
Attend all fittings and sample reviews where necessary for smooth development of collections.
Implement range plans and critical paths for all the Men’s PS Paul Smith collections.
Work with the Design Director and Head of Print Design to develop and approve seasonal print designs.
Communicate and present the PS Pre and Main collections to Sales, Marketing, Visual Merchandising, Press and Retail Buying.
Work closely with the Coordinator, Buying Team and the Sales teams worldwide to ensure collections are complete and balanced commercially for their respective markets.
Oversee and develop the PS Men’s Japan collection in collaboration with the Japanese licensee.
Be responsible for day-to-day management of PS Men’s design team including responsibility for recruitment when necessary.
Collaborate with Design Director and Head of Creative on casting, styling and photoshoots for PS RTW.
Travel to Paul Smith showrooms or offices in Milan, Paris and Japan when necessary and other international locations to visit suppliers.
Work closely with the Copyright team to ensure all artwork meets copyright requirements and are archived, ensuring that this is organised and easily accessible.
Attend pre and main Copyright meetings each season to ensure all artwork is reviewed before issuing, be liable for all designed artworks being checked for copyright permission with the Company Lawyer.

**Your Skills and Experience**
Credible experience managing a whole Menswear collection.
Skilled and able to manage the whole design process.
Advanced knowledge of Illustrator, Photoshop and Microsoft Office packages.
Familiarity of working with Design programs on Mac computers.
Able to produce freehand and illustrator accurate and details drawings, in particular flat drawings.
Experience of working with business partners in disparate locations.
Keen appreciation of colour and use of imagery for complementary themes.
Knowledgeable about the Menswear market and current trends.
Successful background in managing a team.

**Who you are**
Excellent planning, prioritising and organisational skills to time-bound deadlines and range plans.
Excellent knowledge of garment, trims and fabric construction, with a strong understanding of pattern cutting and proportion.
Able to handle multiple design projects concurrently, in a calm and co-operative manner and to set budgets.
Able to design aesthetically appealing Menswear collection.
Highly self-motivated and proactive, with excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
Strong ability to deal with people at all levels and build effective internal and external working relationships and be influential.
Have a keen appreciation of colour and use of imagery for complementary themes. Possess cultural awareness.
Able to travel within the UK and internationally.

**What’s in it for you**
A generous clothing allowance.
Discretionary discount on PSL goods.
Private health insurance with Vitality.
Flexi-time.
An annual leave entitlement of 25 days, plus Bank Holidays (pro-rata).
Cycle to work and travel loan schemes.

If you like the sound of what you’ve read so far, find out more about our **company culture** and the full list of **benefits **we can offer you.