Senior Director, Technical Design

V Opco LLC•Los Angeles, CA

37d

About The Position

The Sr. Director of Technical Design will oversee the implementation, execution and management of technical design strategies and processes from development through final approvals (where applicable), partnering with Design, Merchandising and Production in identifying key programs and strategies that comprise the area of responsibility. The Sr. Director of Technical Design will analyze and implement technical design strategies that will maximize business growth and profitability, adhering to time and action calendars for production and product development. In this role, you will lead and inspire the Technical Design team, specifically the Men’s division, overseeing both Development and Production to develop merchandise across all apparel categories, price points and size extensions. This role will not oversee direction of Design Development relating to Women’s category development, patternmakers and sewers. The Sr. Director of Technical Design will communicate a vision, set objectives, and accomplish results through prioritizing talent development and driving the team toward actionable goals.

Requirements

10 or more years of relevant education and experience in technical design and product development within Men’s and Women’s apparel
5 plus years of experience setting strategies and leading teams
Considered to be an expert in your knowledge and abilities within the product creation lifecycle, including fit, fabric, design interpretation, patternmaking and vendor communications
An excellent understanding of price/value relationship, the cost of design or construction details and which enhancements are worthwhile for elevating the product/brand
Proven leader and passionate about developing your team’s competency in fit, patternmaking, fabric, quality and overall product acumen
Strategic problem solver, identifying root cause, scenario-planning with solutions, weighing risk/reward and aligning key stakeholders
Exemplary interpersonal skills with demonstrated success in both written and verbal communication
Excellent computer skills including proficiency with Technical Design focused programs
Strong time management skills and ability to prioritize workload in order to strategize the objectives and drive the various initiatives of the Technical Design department to be accomplished in a timely manner
Ability to work under pressure in an environment of shifting priorities and change
Expertise in patternmaking, including grading, construction and fit for multiple and/or complex products
Knowledge of construction standards and manufacturing methods
Proven ability of effective management/supervision of technical design team for multiple product categories (i.e. woven, cut & sew knits, sweaters and denim)
Based in LA or are willing to relocate

Responsibilities

Educate the Technical Design team to focus on the critical components needed to deliver exceptional product and build technical skills/knowledge as needed
Guide all stakeholders in decisions that will impact fit experience
Leverage data to strengthen the technical design process
Establish new processes, tools and protocols for growth, communicate the new vision and rally the direct team, cross-functional partners and vendor base to support and execute the vision
Cultivate and maintain strategic vendor partnerships with a focus on processes & standards
Communicate with all related departments, factories, and manufacturers to ensure product details are consistent with the adopted style profiles
Ensure metrics are maintained and analyzed to support product allocations and assess future business needs to support brand goals
Establish fit blocs, specs, and quality standards of entire product line and vendor manual
Oversee fittings in order to approve all fit samples while adhering to the production calendar
Manage design and fit intent into bulk production while maintaining corporate standards
Identify potential production, quality and costing issues and make recommendations to ensure brand integrity
Review and make comments on development and counter samples where required
Travel to international sources to help with the development of product lines, and to work with the technical teams to troubleshoot, educate and understand factory capabilities
Follow up and coordinate all ongoing projects in order to meet stated deadlines
Stay abreast of industry fashion trends - knowledge of market
Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the SVP of Manufacturing

Benefits

Robust healthcare options for medical, dental, vision, flexible spending, and health savings account with employer funding
401(k) with employer match
Generous paid time off plans for vacation, sick, and personal, volunteer time, as well as company holidays
Hybrid and flexible work options available for roles that can be done remotely
Clothing allowance & merchandise discounts
$400 annual gym reimbursement
Monthly data/phone stipend for eligible roles
Mental health support tools and telehealth psychology and psychiatry
Family and caregiving benefits including a competitive paid parental leave program as well as supplemental infertility coverage
Life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
Supplemental hospital indemnity, specified disease, and accident coverage
Pre-tax commuter benefits including transit and parking
Discounted pet, home & auto, and legal insurance