***Thanks in advance, but if you do not have either your Permanent Residency or a valid work permit, please don't apply to this position**
This opportunity is based out of Winnipeg (paid relocation)
Our client, a leading importer of sportswear, athletic apparel and accessories, is looking for a talented Apparel Accessories Designer to join their growing team!
Reporting to the Design Director, the Designer is responsible for the development of new designs to enhance the
company's business, market share and profitability. Based on sales data and market research, Designers forecast
future trends and help formulate the company's product strategy. In line with the strategy the Designer develops new collections starting with CADs and then making physical samples partnering with suppliers, manufacturers,
customers, and other departments. The Designer works with the internal teams to develop custom product for each
specific brand.
Responsibilities:
- Design and develop accessories and packaged basics collections for in-house brands. This design role will be
focused on accessories but flexibility to work on various programs will be an asset. Accessories include, but are
not limited to, bags, hats, socks, intimates and equipment in the activewear space.
- Create line sheets for product development teams and for overseas factory use.
- Create storyboards/inspiration boards for upcoming collections.
- Forecast fabrication, silhouette, print, color and trends.
- Follow through from design creation to sample development.
- Work with offshore vendors and manufacturers as well as internal teams to bring samples to fruition.
- Responsible for portion of collection from a design, color, intention and construction standpoint.
- Work closely with sales and production teams on an ongoing basis to ensure the designs suit the clients,
consumer, market, and end user.
Performance Standards:
- Successfully captures and interprets seasonal trends apt for their customer requirements based on design,
fabric, color/prints. Digestible for internal and external stakeholders.
- Creates line sheets with accurate information and details for product developments teams and factories to be
interpreted with ease.
- Successfully prioritizes and manages workload independently.
- Understands products and presents collections well with customers and with internal teams.
- Understands customer's processes and requirements.
- Displays resilience and commitment with the updating processes of consistently adapting programs.
- Maintains communication with the Design Director keeping them appraised of critical incidents and escalating
issues at the right time.
- Seeing larger picture than day to day and understanding company goals and how they relate to their program.
- Aligns well with company's B Corp initiatives and considers carbon footprint impacts in their daily actions.
Requirements:
- University graduate in Fashion Arts or equivalent combination of education and work experience
- Minimum of 5 years of industry experience in Accessories
- Must have expert knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
- Possesses fiber, yarn and fabric knowledge with a key emphasis on performance fabrications
- Knowledge of garment construction and fit
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Seasonal travel will be required