Design Manager – Accessories, Gifting etc

We’re looking for a skilled Design Manager to join our client’s team with 2+ years in a similar managerial role. This role will manage the development of the design team and report directly into the Head of Design. Previous experience within a Fashion Accessories retailer is required for this role.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a young, growing brand, with an exciting and dynamic culture.

Management Skills

• Day to day management of design team providing technical and creative support.
• To inspire the Design team to deliver above and beyond, always pushing creative boundaries.
• Ensure design briefs are clearly understood and creatively executed by the team.
• Highly capable of influencing a team of designers, nurturing talent, encouraging and supporting development and inspiring a team of design experts.
• Excellent presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Translate brand strategy into creative design direction and product development.
• Manage design collaboration relationships and work with the team to fulfil briefs.
• Working with the production team to resolve production and quality issues.

Development & Innovation

• To maintain a clear knowledge of the design direction of the company though attending meeting and informing the team of any changes.
• Pushing the team to innovate with new product concepts, print trends and fabrications
• Have good awareness of trends and new concepts and to manage the team to react to these with speed.

Sample & Supplier Management

• Mentoring the designers providing design and technical support.
• To be able to give clear direction to other team members when delegating work.
• To be able to manage your team and be responsible for keeping to critical path timelines.
• To maintain strong relationships with suppliers and to be aware of their capabilities.
• Have an in-depth knowledge of the process of product development from the design stage through to production.
• To be a problem solver. Find issues, immediately informing senior management and executing solutions.
• The flexibility to travel and spend time away from home.

What we need from you?

• You must be from an Accessories (Handbags, SLG’s, Sunglasses) or Gifting background (Candles, Mugs, Stationary), additionally any experience across Jewellery, Softs or even Beauty would be ideal as those are categories for expansion over the next 12-24 months.
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft office, Photoshop and Illustrator.
• A comprehensive knowledge of relevant manufacturing capabilities.
• Extensive experience of working with the far east or similar supplier bases.
• Previous experience of managing a team of designers.
• Highly organised and motivated.
• Good time management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and work to multiple deadlines.
• Ability to work in a high-paced environment to tight deadlines, as well as manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• To be a motivator to the team providing support to staff
• Keen interest in emerging trends and fashion.