Designer - Outdoor Apparel

Our Outdoor Design Team has a new and exciting opportunity available for a creative, enthusiastic and driven Women, Kids and Youth Outdoor Apparel Designer to produce designs in the K-Way brand, working closely with the buying team, the K-Way factory, as well as overseas suppliers.

Our ideal candidate will have the ability to align with the company vision, be self-motivated and actively involved in overseeing the end-to-end process in the applicable area of responsibility.  In addition, the successful candidate should have the high energy levels required for this fast-paced, exciting and dynamic retail environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Design outdoor apparel in accordance with the product and range strategy for the portfolio
• Source new fabrics and trims aligned to international trends
• Work closely with our own factory in order to brief in samples and updated styles for fit and seal
• Be able to travel internationally and work with our international suppliers to brief samples and updated styles for fit and seal
• Create full design technical briefing packs with relevant information and measurements
• Design branding that aligns with product and brand principles
• Develop seasonal colour palettes in advance of season
• Match colours and trims according to brand and range principles
• Research local and international trends relevant to portfolio and product strategy to be delivered in two seasonal design brief presentations to the business
• Provide key item and category trend forecasts
• Seasonal colour forecast and approval.
• Compile and present Core and Seasonal colour and style flow boards
• Work closely with buyer and QA in order to see all designs through effective QA and production seal process.

Requirements  

Experience & Qualifications

• Matric with a relevant tertiary qualification is an important pre-requisite
• Working experience in a similar role within a design environment is preferred
• Working knowledge of Microsoft office and Outlook is essential
• Preference will be given to candidates with working knowledge and experience with Illustrator and Photoshop
• Preference will be given to candidates with an understanding of garment construction/manufacturing
• Will be required to travel within the Region and therefore a valid driver’s license and own vehicle is advantageous

 Competencies Required

• Ability to take direction and follow instructions from the Design Lead
• An eye for colour and a good understanding of colour theory
• Ability to use initiative and be a creative thinker with the ability to translate ideas into action
• Well-spoken with effective communication skills
• Resilient and tenacious in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment
• Ability to prioritize, manage your time, maintain high levels of drive & initiative while under pressure
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with all levels of the organization
• Deadline and outcomes focused
• Methodical, detail-orientated and accurate
• Proactive, innovative, passionate, committed, self-motivated, driven and trustworthy

 Please note:  The Cape Union Mart Group is committed to transformation. Appointments and promotions will be made based on candidates who best meet the requirements for the position. Preference will be given to candidates who will enhance the diversity of the team, aligned to our Employment Equity plan.