Accessories Design and Development Manager

As Accessories Design and Development Manager you will work with the Creative Director and be responsible for managing the design and development for all Accessories collections including shoes, bags and jewellery. You will oversee the Design and Development team and liaise with factories in Portugal and Spain to oversee the product design and development process from research, sketching through to sampling and finished product. The role is based in our studio in London with regular travel to Portugal, Spain and Italy required.

 

Specific Duties:

• Work with the Creative Director to design and develop seasonal accessories collections, working closely with the Design and Development team
• Ensure professional and smooth running of the design and development department, working closely with the Design and Development Assistant on a daily basis
• Develop and oversee an accurate design, development and production critical path timetable for all seasons accessories collections, working closely with the Design and Development Assistant and production team to ensure deadlines are met
• Carry out visual research and design development based on the Creative Director’s creative concept and brief for the season
• Produce sketches, sketch modifications and 3D models as directed by the Creative Director
• Liaise with European suppliers to research and source leathers and fabrics, heels, hardware and other components for designs
• Visit leather and other sourcing fairs with the aim of finding new and appropriate suppliers to work with
• Communicate designs accurately and oversee sampling process and liaise closely with factories to develop collection samples
• Oversee fit sessions and ensure the modifications are reflected in the final spec sheets and patterns
• Ensure samples are delivered on time, to the required standard and within budget
• Compile finished tech packs, revising and finalising as required
• Oversee accurate and appropriate costing of seasonal accessories collections, working with the Design and Development Assistant and the Sales Manager
• Communicate with and visit European factories as required for the design and development of the seasonal collection
• Ensure any and all accessories related issues are discussed with the Creative Director in a timely manner
• Monitor and report on the accessories critical path at regular meetings with the company directors
• Manage the Design and Development Assistant and Design interns, communicating with them daily to ensure appropriate direction and support on required tasks
• Support the Creative Director with any other design projects
• Carry out other tasks or responsibilities as required by the company directors

 

Required Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• BA or equivalent qualification in a fashion related subject from a recognised College or University
• Significant prior experience in an Accessories Design and Development role within a womenswear fashion business
• Fluent English language skills
• Detailed knowledge of women’s fashion and an ability to understand the brand’s design aesthetic
• Ability to create and contribute to the design of cutting-edge women’s shoes, bags and other accessories with a high level of skills within visual design, technical drawing and pattern cutting
• Strong technical knowledge of womens shoes and bags and an ability to come up with creative solutions for finishes
• Exceptional organisational skills and ability to manage the production process and timetable for seasons clothing collections
• Strong Photoshop and Illustrator skills
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and an ability to effectively manage team members
• Proactive and can-do approach

Reports to: Creative Director

Manages: Accessories Design Graduate Intern and other interns when necessary

 

To Apply 

Email your CV and digital portfolio to info@rejinapyo.com 

Closing date: 27 April 2019