About the position
The Head of Woven Design plays a pivotal role in translating the founders' creative vision into cohesive design strategies that shape the brand's expression across all channels. This position requires a balance of strategic leadership and hands-on creative direction to oversee design innovation, execution, and team engagement. The successful candidate will partner with the founder to develop and execute the creative vision for the brand, ensuring alignment with its ethos and strategic goals. By leading and inspiring a multidisciplinary team, the Head of Design ensures that all aspects of clothing, graphics, special projects, collaborations, and brand image uphold the highest standards of quality and innovation. This role demands thought leadership, strong industry expertise, and a deep understanding of design trends, research, and market influences to deliver exceptional seasonal concepts and collaborations that are authentically aligned with the brand's vision.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate closely with the Founder and Chief Creative Officer to produce outstanding designs that align with the brand's aesthetic and strategic objectives.
- Develop and articulate the seasonal design direction, ensuring that the creative vision is effectively communicated across all teams.
- Prepare impactful and visually compelling design presentations for key review meetings.
- Lead research and inspiration trips to explore new trends, materials, and ideas, ensuring constant innovation and relevance.
- Stay attuned to cultural, artistic, and industry influences, leveraging insights to inspire and educate the team.
- Oversee all stages of the design process, from conceptualization to execution, including research, mock-ups, materials, illustrations, prints, and graphics.
- Review and approve prototypes and samples to maintain the integrity and quality of designs.
- Attend fittings and product reviews to ensure creative and functional alignment with the brand vision.
- Collaborate with the Chief Product and Merchandising Officer to curate seasonal assortments that address both core and emerging business needs.
- Partner with the Raw Materials Team to source high-quality fabrics and trims, ensuring alignment with design and budgetary goals.
- Work with the Development and Studio Teams to ensure timely and accurate product development in adherence to the time and action calendar.
- Provide creative oversight to the Design Team, including Woven Design and Graphics Teams, ensuring collaboration and cohesion.
- Lead, mentor, and inspire design teams, fostering an environment of creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
- Drive talent acquisition and development, building a high-performing, dynamic team capable of delivering outstanding results.
- Manage relationships and provide direction to contracted external designers to ensure consistent quality and alignment with brand standards.
Requirements
- 10+ years design experience
- Excellent time management and interpersonal skills.
- Possess high fashion aesthetics.
- Previous experience working with Asia and Europe.
- High level of communication
- Proficiency with computer design software, i.e., Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop.
- The ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with cross-functional through design, development, and merchandising.
- Ability to manage multiple projects at once and meet seasonal milestones and key deadlines.
- Ability to exhibit excellent presentation and problem-solving skills.
- Experience throughout all elements of design inclusive of technical innovation, graphics, color, fabric, trim.
- Experience in professional management.
