VP, Design and Merchandising

About Us:

We are defined by innovation as we seize new opportunities and thrive in an environment informed by creativity and thinking that is both analytical and outside the box. Centric Brands reflects a team built on respect, for others and for the hard work it takes to achieve our goals and build our bright future together.

Specific Responsibilities Would Include:

This VP will oversee licensed brands such as Michael Kors, All Saints, Kurt Geiger, Coach, and Kate Spade, and more.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Shop for and source samples and inspiration; perform research to isolate key, relevant trends for each category or brand, where appropriate and new fabrications to be adapted for each merchandise category; review and provide perspective on competitive analysis, fabric and concept boards, mock-ups, color-ups and inspirational photos for presentations
• Oversee and review development of initial seasonal design concepts in context of larger assortment and cost structure; review and provide perspective on style plans; coordinate among design teams to ensure brand cohesiveness, where appropriate, across categories

• Supervise creation of Illustrator sketches; approve specification sheets and line sheets; review product development logs, line sheets and boards for consistency; approve raw materials and trims
• Sign off on lab dips and ensure consistency with color standards and licensor directives, where appropriate; approve prints and graphics where appropriate; oversee fit process
• Oversee fit sessions; identify and resolve quality and technical issues

• Maintain relationships with collaborators and competitors; attend trade shows and industry events
• Oversee creation of style plans and design to meet sales needs and emerging trends; partner with merchandising and sales to identify new product opportunities; ensure execution to time-and-action calendar; coordinate among design teams to ensure brand cohesiveness, where appropriate, across categories
• Collaborate with sales to merchandise and style showroom; present line to senior management and key accounts and buyers; partner with sales and brand management, where applicable, on collateral for in-store marketing needs
• Direct communication and follow-up with internal and external customers and partners, including suppliers, vendors and licensors, where applicable; maintain relationships with existing partners in production and tech to source new suppliers and vendors
• Manage communication with manufacturers and suppliers around the world

• Lead, train and motivate team of full-time, part-time and freelance designers; strategize staffing needs across categories and brands, where appropriate
• Contribute positively to team dynamic and manage up where necessary
• Attract, develop and retain talent; create appropriate succession plans
• Monitor and evaluate performance of individuals and team(s)

Our Best Fit Candidate Would Have:

• Experience with Soft Accessories, Cold Weather, Scarves, Hats and Gloves
• Superior organizational skills and excellent communication skills; team oriented
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines; highly detail oriented, meticulous and creative
• Creativity, technical capability and sensibility for merchandising; strong ability to sketch
• Extensive knowledge of garment construction, pattern making, silhouettes, color ways, sewing techniques, fabrication and trim; familiarity with print design and manufacturing
• Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design
• 10 - 12 years experience in apparel design; significant relevant experience in category
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe products, CAD and Mac computers

Salary Range: $195,000-230,000

Base salary is a part of a total compensation package, which, depending on the position, may also include commission earnings, annual bonus and other Centric Brands sponsored benefit programs.

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Centric Brands is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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We will never ask for any money or payments from applicants at any point in the recruitment process. Be aware of suspicious recruitment activity. If you think you are a victim of an employment scam, you may contact your local law enforcement agency and/or visit the Federal Trade Commission website here: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams.