Aspinal of London is seeking a Senior Designer to lead the leather goods and accessories category, including bag styles, hardware, leather sourcing, and seasonal colour development, as well as soft accessories, jewellery, belts, hats, and new categories. The role involves designing and developing new styles and collections, collaborating closely with the Chairman and Product & Supply Director. The Senior Designer will oversee the design process from concept through to manufacturing, supporting sourcing and production efforts.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a small team based in West Sussex. The current Designer Manager is going on maternity leave in September, and this role will lead the team in her absence.
Attendance in the office at least 4 days per week is required.
Accountabilities include:
* Supporting seasonal concept and colour creation
* Generating new ideas and sourcing raw materials
* Creating designs and CADs for prototypes
* Reviewing range plans to ensure margin requirements
* Developing Design Packs and specs
* Supporting Product Development with critique and problem solving
* Managing the design critical path to meet key deadlines
Creative themes and concepts:
* Deliver seasonal story themes provided by the Creative team
* Research colour, trend, and product developments from various sources
* Manage concept boards for themes, colours, and products
* Ensure craftsmanship and raw materials are at the forefront of product development
Design function responsibilities:
* Present designs at pipeline meetings, considering price points and materials
* Approve CADs and design packs
* Research new raw materials and trends
* Collaborate on scarf designs and retail store visits for customer insights
Raw materials and product creation:
* Research and develop new raw materials and hardware
* Ensure wearer trials and technical specifications are completed
* Handover technical drawings to Product Development
* Support development of various accessories including hats, jewellery, scarves, belts, socks, keyrings, and homeware
* Create detailed design specifications and technical info using Adobe AI and CADs
* Lead meetings with Product Development for sample critique and development
* Work with suppliers to amend designs and resolve issues
* Manage sample stock and ensure timely delivery of seasonal styles
Prototype and range building:
* Coordinate prototype reviews and sample management
* Support collection building aligned with business needs
* Review sales data to inform collection development
Competencies include:
* 3D design and hand sketching skills
* Proactive and self-motivated
* Supplier meeting experience
* Strong time management and prioritization
* Market knowledge and trend awareness
* Excellent communication and presentation skills
* Minimum 5 years experience in accessories design
* Design qualification at degree level
* Understanding of Aspinal’s brand DNA and customer base
* Knowledge of colour, leather, fabric, and hardware trends
Note: If you are not a passport holder of the country for this vacancy, a work permit may be required. For more information, check our Blog. Do not include bank or payment details in your application. All applications should be submitted via the 'Apply now' button. Created on 16/07/2025 by TN, United Kingdom.
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