Childrenswear Design Manager OverviewWe are partnered with a well-established fashion supplier who are seeking an experienced Childrenswear Design Manager to lead their dynamic design team.The Childrenswear Design Manager must have a strong background in licensed apparel, with a minimum of six years’ industry experience, including at least three years managing a design team of 10+ across multi product categories.The Childrenswear Design Manager will work closely with the Head of Creative to shape and deliver commercially successful, licensor-approved collections.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and guide the design team with both strategic oversight and hands-on involvement, ensuring all creative work aligns with brand guidelines, licensor requirements, and retailer standardsTranslate creative direction into commercially viable collections while maintaining high quality and consistency throughout all stages of developmentPlan and allocate workloads effectively to ensure deadlines are met, productivity is optimized, and team wellbeing is supportedConduct regular performance reviews, providing clear feedback, coaching, and development support to maintain outstanding creative standardsAct as a central point of communication between Directors, senior leadership, and operational teams to ensure clarity, alignment, and transparencyRepresent the business professionally when engaging with licensors, retailers, and external partners, building and maintaining strong working relationshipsPromote a positive and inclusive team culture by being accessible, supportive, and proactive in mentoring and training team members, with clear progression pathwaysOversee team absences including holidays and sickness, ensuring appropriate cover and minimal impact on workflowDemonstrate strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator and Photoshop), alongside excellent organizational, communication, and presentation skillsApply in-depth knowledge of fabrics, garment construction, production techniques, manufacturing capabilities, and cost considerations, working closely with factoriesCollaborate with Sales and Development teams to balance innovation with commercial timelines and market requirementsMaintain a strong awareness of market trends, consumer behaviour, and competitor activity, contributing to seasonal and macro trend development as well as graphics directionPlan and attend seasonal competitor shopping trips within agreed budgets alongside the Head of CreativeParticipate in travel as required for licensor meetings, retailer appointments, and research tripsAdditional InformationThis is a hybrid role, with 3 days in the office and 2 working from home.