Technical Design Manager

 SUMMARY

A Manager of Technical Designer is responsible for managing and directing all work flow for the area. Overseas building and maintaining the specs and fit of the garments from initial design concept through to final fit approval for all  categories. This role is responsible to ensure fit consistency and Brand standards  for construction throughout the categories. This position requires the highest level of technical, process management and problem solving skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages all workflow and direct reports in the Technical Design department. 


• Collaborates with business partners to obtain clear direction and consensus on design aesthetic, fit intent and construction.


• Build excellent working relationships with cross functional partners in Design, Merchandising, Sourcing and Product Development as well as overseas offices and Direct vendors. 


• Develop specifications and garment construction methods for assigned product categories from initial style development and cost engineer for bulk production. 


• Attend fit sessions with Team, to develop Brand aesthetic, silhouette and proportion within the price point for all categories.


• Problem solves all technical issues related to fit and execution including fabric application, construction, grading and cost engineering.


• Effectively communicate fit intent, balance and construction revisions to OVS partners and Direct Vendors via fit notes, diagrams, ¼ scale pattern corrections, digital photos. 


• Evaluate prototype samples and fit samples for measurement, fit and construction accuracy and quality according to Brand standards. 


• Participate in maintaining consistency of technical design and product creation processes. 


• Partner with OVS offices and Direct Vendor Technical teams to ensure execution of fit, construction and finishing.


• Ensure Brand consistency in aesthetic, fit and construction from vendor to vendor across all styles.


• Effectively communicate with cross functional teams to ensure calendar milestone deliverables are met.


• Proactively identify and solve potential production, quality and costing issues and make appropriate recommendations for resolutions.


• Escalate issues when necessary and provide root cause analysis, fact finding and possible solutions. 


• Track workload deliverables to ensure individual deadlines are met and work with production partners to avoid garment delivery slides.


• Attend key Milestone meetings to provide technical support with regards to fit and construction.


• Fosters open communication and team environment with all business partners and receives constructive feedback professionally.

SKILLS: 

• Expertise in fitting garments for all product categories.


• Skill in supervising, delegating and all staffing needs. 


• Ability to analyze fit issues and propose valid & actionable solutions.


• Expertise in pattern making, grading, construction methods and garment engineering for all categories.


• Knowledge of fabric and inner components.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.


• Strong sense of urgency, attention to detail and resourcefulness.


• Adept at time management with the ability to set priorities, plan and meet overlapping deadlines.


• Proven organizational skills and ability to manage deadlines and changing priorities.


• Competent analytical skills and ability to problem solve.


• Dedicated team player.


• Expert interpersonal skills and ability to interact with all personality types and cultures.


• Ability to openly embrace changes dictated by market conditions


• Advanced computer skills:  Google Apps, Microsoft Office Suite (or alternate software), Adobe Illustrator, PLM, 


• Knowledge of Gerber AccuMark, Lectra, Optitex, Browzwear, Clo (or alternate computer pattern making or 3D software).


• Ability to supervise and train direct reports.

REQUIREMENTS 

• B.A. Apparel Design, Technical Design, or job related equivalent.


• 5+ years of experience in Technical Design, and at least two other proficiencies: patternmaking, product engineering, garment construction or pattern grading.


• 5+ years of experience managing a staff.