Design Director – Denim
About The Position
We are seeking a highly creative and technically skilled Design Director – Denim to lead the design and development of seasonal denim and bottoms that drive growth while maintaining the brand’s aesthetic and identity. This role oversees the design process from initial concept through development and production, ensuring collections align with customer needs, market trends, and commercial objectives. The ideal candidate brings a strong point of view on denim, with the ability to translate trends into commercially successful product. This leader will partner closely with merchandising, product development, and overseas teams to execute compelling assortments across both house labels and private label accounts.
Requirements
- 8–10+ years of design experience, with a strong focus on denim/bottoms (required)
- Experience in the Junior (JR) market preferred
- Experience mentoring or managing designers (direct management of at least one designer preferred)
- Deep understanding of denim construction, washes, fits, and fabrications
- Proven ability to lead product from concept through production
- Strong merchandising sensibility with a commercial design perspective
- Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (Photoshop a plus)
- Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Experience working with major retail accounts or private label business is a plus
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed
- Portfolio required
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of seasonal denim and bottoms collections from concept through production
- Establish seasonal direction for denim including washes, fits, fabrications, and key silhouettes
- Partner with senior leadership to develop seasonal concepts, color palettes, and product strategies
- Drive innovation while balancing trend, brand identity, and commercial viability
- Oversee creation of sketches, CADs, and tech packs to ensure clear communication of design intent
- Guide fabric selection, wash development, and fit approvals
- Maintain line plans across house labels and private label accounts
- Analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and customer insights to identify opportunities
- Ensure all design deliverables meet seasonal timelines and calendars
- Lead product presentations for internal reviews and key retail partners
- Direct and mentor one Designer, providing guidance on design, construction, washes, and execution
- Foster a collaborative and creative working environment
- Provide clear feedback and support day-to-day development and workload prioritization
- Maintain high standards of design quality and consistency across product
- Partner closely with Merchandising to align assortments with business strategy, SKU plans, and customer needs
- Collaborate with Technical Design to guide fit development and approvals
- Work with sourcing and production teams on fabric, trim, and wash development, balancing cost and quality
- Partner with overseas teams to ensure accurate and timely sample execution
- Address development and production challenges while maintaining design integrity
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
251-500 employees
