Freelance Design Director (Creative Design)

SUMMARY

Manage and direct the design & development process for the Perry Ellis America Collection,  across all sportswear product categories. Responsible for the execution of the entire product design process from inception to production including the development & deployment of graphic & logo applications.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Manage and direct design process for a given season, by building strong, balanced assortments that include core, “key items” and fashion items as it pertains to multiple product categories

• Responsible for directing and executing the entire product design process to include market research, mood board creation, developing of color palettes, designing, sketching, specing and fit

• Set overall design direction in conceptual development to create designs that support merchant line plans, assortment strategies, price points and overall creative direction

• Communicate effectively with overseas offices and vendors to ensure product execution according to design intent

• Continuous development of both woven and knit fabrics, working together with the sourcing department, to achieve expensive looks at sharp point prices

• Direct the development of fabrics, prints, trims and embroideries for each season

• Skilled with graphics & development of logo treatments 

• Accountable for process improvement, growing business and seeking opportunities to positively affect division/company 

• Fully responsible for ensuring that product is consistent with market trends as well as business strategy; interprets international/domestic concepts and fashion trends as it relates to market demands, company image and business strategy

• Ensures consistency of look between differing businesses

• Ensure the product design package is complete, accurate and handed off to the product development team, tech department and vendors on time for prototypes and salesmen samples

• Domestic travel for design inspiration as well as for sales presentations with accounts buyers and trade shows

• Sets tone regarding style and fit of product by conducting fit sessions with technical designer. Responsible for final approval of sample fit

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

• In-depth knowledge of design techniques and processes across multiple categories.

• Creation of Graphics & logo treatments 

• Ability to inspire a team and lead the creative design process. 

• Proven leadership/management skills. 

• Strong listening and negotiation skills and ability to interpret product feedback. 

• Ability to interact comfortably with all levels of the organization.

• Proven time management and organizational skills. 

• Proven excellent presentation skills.

• Ability to set a creative tone and to inspire ideas/new concepts; ability to conceptually visualize and build a line. 

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• 8+ years design experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design

See Job Description