Vice President Technical Design

Express•New York, NY

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Vice President of Technical Design leads the Technical Design Team for Phoenix (Express and Bonobos brands). This role is responsible for translating the creative vision of the design team into technical designs that can be produced by the factory to meet quality and fit specifications. The VP partners with Design, Product Development, Merchants, and Vendors to take responsibility for the technical development of styles and the application of all quality standards relating to fit and construction. They maintain garment consistency, quality, and fit integrity across all bulk production by communicating risks and opportunities during development and production. Additionally, the VP maintains and drives global standards for garment fit and execution across all vendors and regions, drives efficiency into the seasonal execution of product, and ensures consistent training across the vendor base to improve product fit and vendor calibration.

Requirements

Bachelors degree or Certification in Apparel Manufacturing, Design, Patternmaking or equivalent work experience
20+ years in apparel technical design with 15+ years at a leadership level
Expertise in patternmaking including grading, construction and fit for multiple or complex product
Specialist in fit / knowledge of construction standards and manufacturing methods
Extensive experience in driving process improvements in all areas of responsibility
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Excellent interpersonal skills, including ability to interface regularly with senior/executive leadership
Organizational skills and ability to multi task
Ability to proactively troubleshoot and problem solve
Overseas travel experience, knowledge and flexibility.
Proficiency in computer pattern programs, computer spec writing programs such as Gerber, PLM, Adobe Illustrator, Google Suite

Responsibilities

Create and evolve a Tech Design strategy; operations, methods and measures of effectiveness
Manage the development and production of seasonal collections, chase product, and test orders.
Collaborate cross functionally and globally in efforts to deliver on metrics while protecting brand DNA.
Ensure that all products are developed in a manner consistent with established fit and comfort quality, performance, standards, manufacturer capabilities and cost specifications.
Identify risks and work to rectify any problematic construction, fabrics or trims, collaborating with cross functional teams, early in the fit development process.
Lead and manage fit process.
Develop and maintain blocks for a more consistent fit and quicker product development timeline
Drive calendar adherence and escalate exceptions or issues to the development calendar
Identify internal/technical trim needs and request, track, and provide feedback on internal/technical trim submits
Review tools and processes for continuous improvement opportunities, increased productivity and best practices within Technical Design
Ensure engagement of the team through collaboration, training opportunities, and team development
Foster open communication and team environment with all Business Partners; receives constructive feedback professionally.
Hold self and others accountable for work commitments and outcomes.
Participate & lead departmental and cross-functional meetings as appropriate.
Select, develop, and retain Associates especially focused on developing bench talent
Mentor, coach and counsel direct reports to be accountable to performance expectations
Travel to Ohio office as well as international vendors/factories to work with technical teams to troubleshoot, educate and understand factory capabilities.