Headwear Designer (Maternity Cover

Job Title

Headwear Designer

Location

Milton Keynes

Reporting to

Senior Designer

Contract

Maternity Cover (FTC) for 12-months, on a full-time basis, 37.5 hours per week

Optional Hybrid Working

2 days WFH, 3 days based in our MK Office

Optional Flexi Working

Core collaboration hours - 9am - 3pm

Job Description

The role of headwear Designer is to develop innovative new products within the New Era Cap portfolio including concept and prototype development. The headwear Designer will work within our Booking Program team that creates our seasonal ranges and will be responsible for the delivery of a dedicated proportion of the range. In addition will undertake additional strategic projects under the guidance of the Senior Headwear Designer, Design Manager and Head of Design.

Responsibilities

• Design and development seasonal headwear collections, from initial concept through to production.
• Create commercially relevant headwear designs that align with brand direction, trends, and consumer needs in the EMEA region.
• Design and sketch original product ideas.
• Research seasonal trends, colours, materials, and relevant markets to inform designs.
• Create product specifications, tech packs, and BOMs with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Collaborate with Product Management, Sourcing and wider Design team to ensure design intent is achieved.
• Support the selection of materials, trims, embellishments, and construction details.
• Participate in design presentations and reviews.
• Provide support to the wider New Era Design team when necessary.
• Ensure all design work is delivered on time and in line with quality, cost, and commercial objectives.

Knowledge and Experience

Through design experience and a portfolio of original work, you must be able to demonstrate skill and knowledge in each of the following areas:

• Ability to translate colour, material and design vision into products.
• Knowledge of designing product from concept to completion, considering fabric, trims, execution, aesthetics and commercial viability.
• A proven level of artistic and design ability that has successfully moved a product or program forward.
• Awareness of the womenswear market, with fabric knowledge and experience in trend analysis.
• Organizational, time management and prioritizing skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Experience in design software including Illustrator, Photoshop and In-design.

Qualifications and Achievements

Through experience, you must be able to demonstrate:

• Global outlook towards fashion, performance and lifestyle trends.
• Communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work as a team player.
• Self-starter with a pro-active approach to work and the ability to work independently.
• Can do attitude.
• Proactive way of thinking.
• Previous design role in relevant field.

Education

• Product design or fashion related degree or equivalent.
• Demonstrable design experience within an apparel / accessories sector, preferably with a sports or lifestyle fashion brand.