Footwear Designer

We have an exciting opportunity for a highly creative Footwear Designer to join a leading premium retail brand. You will work in an innovative design team reporting to the Design Manager. Offices are based in London and they work hybrid (3 days in office / 2 days remote).

About the Role
Oversee and drive a range of footwear categories:

• Women's
• Men's
• Casual sandals
• City smart
• Outlet

Take ownership of each category & support the buying teams by driving innovative creativity. Attend range build and sign off meetings for each department. Ability to design and present chosen categories and work closely with the Buyer to develop within the brand DNA. Collaborate with and assist senior members of the design team when required. Ensure product is on brand and aligned with the seasonal trend direction & company strategy. Understanding of sales data with buyer to interpret and improve best sellers & newness, commercial eye.

Responsibilities

• Deliver superior and elevated product from concept to completion that represents key trends & commercial opportunities.
• Experience & understanding of materials, constructions, fit and quality.
• Full understanding of footwear construction, lasts, fitting.
• Confidence working with key suppliers and understanding their strengths.
• Knowledge of country-by-country sourcing.
• Product research & regular comp shops and a thorough understanding of the brand DNA.
• Product Development discussions that address key trends and opportunities.
• Briefing clear technical specification packs, following up with suppliers and chasing development.
• Understand sales history, sales and margin targets and range plans for your own area of accountability and division to ensure designs are aligned to deliver on commercial opportunities.
• Through strong relationships and collaboration with Buying, suppliers and realise opportunities for newness, trends and sourcing.
  
  

Required Skills

• Advanced Adobe Illustrator, CAD and Photoshop skills are essential.
• Minimum of 4 years + retail design experience.
• Strong creative design skills.
• Strong organisation skills including Critical Path Management, in line with Buying team requirements.
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Very strong interpersonal effectiveness and collaboration skills.
• Good networks in the market and industry.
• Ability to design elevated product range with authority and confidence.
• Top class footwear technical expertise and understanding.
• Ability to work collaboratively across several different business functions and varied supply base.
  
  

Please send CV and portfolio stating your salary expectations.

Creative Recruitment is an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, sexuality, gender identification, or physical ability.