Design Director, Haven Well

Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition @ Knit Well Group (Ann Taylor, LOFT, Lane Bryant & Talbots)

About Us

Talbots is a leading omni‑channel specialty retailer of women's clothing, shoes and accessories. Established in 1947, we are known for modern classic style that is both timeless and timely, fine quality craftsmanship, and gracious service. At Talbots, relationships are key to our business; we hire individuals who bring new ideas to the table, understand smart risk taking, and can enhance an already thriving culture.

We are committed to offering modern classic style for every body type, including a full range of sizes, inclusive to every woman in your life.

About The Role

This position is responsible for overseeing the interpretation and implementation of design concepts into brand‑appropriate items for Haven Well Within, including color, print and pattern direction, and seasonal brand expression and storytelling. The Design Director for Haven Well Within leads a team that creates and develops a marketable product line through the vision and illustration of design concepts appropriate for the Haven Well Within customer while consistently meeting and exceeding sales growth strategies.

The impact you can have

• Responsible for managing the design vision for Haven Well Within
• Conduct seasonal global and domestic research for color, print/pattern, and trend direction
• Articulate and prepare presentations to leadership and business partners (concept, line presentation, etc.)
• Guide the team in the creation and execution of innovative product for Haven Well Within ensuring a strong focus on brand integrity, sales/margin goals, and growth opportunities
• Execute silhouette, fit and styling direction
• Partner with cross‑functional counterparts to drive seasonal framework ensuring that creative ideas and business goals are in tandem
• Partner with Fabric R&D to research and identify yarns and fabrics that align with and amplify sustainability goals
• Adhere to cross‑functional calendar and attend all meetings as required
• Create, approve, and oversee execution of tech packs/seasonal development hand‑offs
• Provide a collaborative, challenging work environment

Internal and External Relationships

• Internal:
  Design, Product Development / Sourcing, Merchandising, Technical Design
• External:
  Fabric Mills, Factory Representatives, Trim Vendors

You'll bring to the role

• Knowledge and experience at a level normally acquired through the completion of a bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design
• 15+ years of related design experience
• Collaborative partner with superior time and project management skills; a hands‑on and team‑oriented partner able to shift gears seamlessly and is willing to do what it takes to support deliverables
• Excellent written and verbal presentation skills
• Proven ability to communicate and influence diverse levels of talent to achieve results
• Highly creative with a strong, innovative business growth mindset and exceptional management skills
• Superior sketching ability with expert Illustrator skills; able to efficiently create compelling design presentations
• Highly proficient in sustainable textile and yarn research and development, sustainable manufacturing, and packaging practices
• Knowledge and experience working with pattern makers, sample makers, technical designers, and CAD designers
• Independent, self‑motivated, and detail‑oriented
• Proficient with computer programs including PLM/Product Development Platform, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Microsoft Office (Excel is a must). Experience using Miro and Microsoft Teams, a plus.

Benefits

• You will be eligible to receive a merchandise discount at select Knit Well Group brands, subject to each brand’s discount policies.
• Support for your individual development plus opportunities for career mobility within our family of brands.
• A culture of giving back – local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match to eligible nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic activities to support our communities.
• Medical, dental, vision insurance & 401(K)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Time off – paid time off & holidays
• Eligibility of certain benefits and associate programs are subject to employment…