Overview
At Debenhams Group, we are on a journey of transformation, revitalising our brand, culture, and connection with colleagues and customers alike. In a fast-changing retail environment, effective and authentic communication is vital to building trust, aligning our teams, and amplifying the impact of our work across internal and external audiences.
Role
We are looking to hire an experienced Design Manager for Soft Wovens, Embellishment & Embroidery to play a key role in shaping Karen Millen’s contemporary, elevated collections across occasionwear and premium daywear. This role will be based out of our central London office.
Responsibilities
* Work with the Product Director to set an inspiring vision for the future and effectively translate and communicate this to the teams.
* Lead the design and development of soft woven collections, including dresses, blouses and elevated daywear.
* Deliver seasonal trend packs and identify in-season trends. Translate these into the business.
* Identify focused key items for the season, volume lines, colour palettes and print direction.
* Create modern, feminine silhouettes that align with the Karen Millen design handwriting.
* Approach product development from a collection perspective, ensuring ranges feel cohesive and commercially balanced.
* Support strategic range planning and build strong category architecture across the season.
* Deliver designs that support seven-day dressing through considered fabric and silhouette choices.
* Demonstrate an in-depth, customer-focused knowledge of the market and trends.
* Manage and develop the Design Team for Karen Millen.
* Depu tising for the Product Director, with the opportunity to work closely with the Managing Director on a regular basis.
* Take responsibility for the design critical path in line with buying and marketing.
* Drive the creative development of embellishment, embroidery and artisanal surface techniques.
* Produce detailed artwork packs, placement designs and trim concepts for suppliers.
* Explore innovative applications of craft and premium detailing across occasionwear.
* Manage the design process from initial concept through to final sample approval.
* Deliver product that balances crafted statement pieces with cleaner, refined silhouettes and fabrications.
* Work closely with Buying and Merchandising to ensure collections are commercially balanced.
* Partner with Garment Technology to achieve exceptional fit, construction and quality.
* Ensure product is delivered on time and in line with the critical path.
* Maintain strong awareness of global fashion trends, craft techniques and competitor activity.
* Identify new product opportunities and emerging design directions relevant to the Karen Millen customer.
* Work closely with Buying, Merchandising, Technical and Studio teams to deliver cohesive collections.
* Contribute to range presentations, design reviews and seasonal concept development.
Qualifications
* A degree in Fashion Design or a related discipline.
* Significant experience at a Design Manager level, within soft wovens or occasionwear.
* Proven experience within a previous design role, with management experience.
* Strong experience designing woven dresses and tops.
* Confident knowledge of embellishment, embroidery and surface design techniques.
* Able to adapt design handwriting across both crafted and cleaner product categories.
* Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple developments and deadlines.
* Commercially aware with a strong understanding of customer, trend and market influences.
* A collaborative team player with a clear design perspective and strong product focus.
* Comfortable working at pace. Agility is an asset.
* A team player who supports others in peak times.
Working With Us
At Debenhams Group we thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries.
Benefits
* Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance.
* Discount across all brands.
* Comprehensive wellbeing package.
* Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression.
* Free season ticket loan.
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