ASSOCIATE DESIGNER – N NATORI

JOB DESCRIPTION: 

• Responsible for the design of a commercially viable line that fulfills the Chief Creative Officer’s vision, brand strategy and financial plans
• Design responsibility for print-driven lifestyle collection (RTW, sleepwear and loungewear) from concept through fully-rendered product, consistent with brand image and target customers

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design Research and Concept Launch
• Leads concept process; creates seasonal story boards to communicate overall concept to Chief Creative Officer and cross-functional partners in an inspirational and organized manner
• Stays abreast of competitive landscape; research market, identify opportunities and incorporate relevant market and sales trends into product assortments in a brand-appropriate manner
• Develop and/or evolve tiered product strategies of the Global Line Plan supported by key/core items and good-better-best assortments by brand
• Research and sketch silhouettes, selection of colors, prints, fabrics and trims; finalizes color palette and print direction

Design Development and Line Status
• Comply with Master Development Calendar to adhere to designated due dates
• Customize design vision to meet retail/wholesale margin targets and to align with key themes and messages
• Responsible for initial technical packages for overseas proto development as well as purchasing specs TP’s for bulk production
• Conduct fit sessions, provide fit comments and work closely with Technical Design team
• Work with CAD/Graphics team to develop print/embellishment layouts to specifications
• Communicate with PD team concerning all color, l/d, s/o and color approval information and techniques
• Communicate with PD and Sales/Merchandising teams to ensure all product needs are met
• Additional responsibilities as required

QUALIFICATIONS:
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in the industry, preferably sleepwear/loungewear
• B.S. in Design, Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, Design or equivalent
• Strong knowledge of Illustrator and Photoshop Program; NedGraphics is a plus
• Basic computer skills and knowledge in Microsoft Office, Excel, Word and PowerPoint
• Excellent hand/digital sketching and illustration ability
• Strong technical knowledge of garment construction and fit
• Ability to communicate clearly using fabric/merchandising/garment construction terminology and skills both written and verbal
• Great eye for color; understands possibilities of fabric and construction; looks for new and innovative ways to use color, fabric, and details in design
• Applies design concepts through lens of the customer and brand filter
• Flexible and able to accept and embrace departmental/organizational changes with positive attitude
• Organized and detailed orientated
• Problem-solver, solutions orientated
• Must be able to multi-task, prioritize work on a continual basis, and work with limited supervision
• Excellent written and oral communications skills
• Able to build relationships effectively with cross-functional teams