We are looking for a creative and strategic Design Manager to drive concept development and seasonal collections for the fashion retail industry. This role combines trend forecasting, product design, and technical expertise to deliver commercially viable collections aligned with brand direction and market needs. Strong leadership and a deep understanding of fashion retail are essential.

Provides overall creative direction and leadership in the development and delivery of design services, particularly in concept and line development.

• Spearhead trend research on forthcoming trends & directions in fashion.
• Develop and present new season concept, fabric and color direction.
• Responsible for putting together a comprehensive and well-edited collection in line with the agreed concept and overall business strategy.
• Lead all concept, line planning and line presentation meetings. Monitor customer feedback in relation to design.
• Conduct regular market reviews and competitive checks.
• Competent in dealing with the technical requirements of the job , including material sourcing and development.
• Ensure compliance in Merchandise Working Calendar (MWC)
• Timelines & policies
• Highly competent in dealing with the technical requirements of the job, including material sourcing and development.
• Recommend ideal vendors assignment based on area of expertise

Note: Other duties related to the responsibilities and output of the position but not included in this document may be assigned by the immediate superior.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 5 years related working experience Fine Arts, Advertising, Industrial Design, Clothing Technology, Fashion and Merchandising, Textile and Garments Technology, or other fashion-related course

COMPETENCIES KNOWLEDGE

• Design Principles: using color combination design elements and the execution of design using various media
• Garment Technology: basic fiber and textile properties; basic garment construction and patterns; fashion illustration and design
• Merchandising: able to interpret and understand the merchandise cycle, the fashion and retail industry
• Brand: familiarity with the brand and its target market.

SKILLS

• Can translate artistic concepts and ideas in CorelDraw, Adobe Photoshop or Macromedia Free hand formats.
• Can articulate ideas and opinions verbally. Leadership and people-handling skills.
• Possess strong presentation, listening, verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to analyze a problem skillfully, formulate a logical rationale and take decisive action.
• Demonstrate organizational ability to facilitate multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Skilled in building cross-functional and cross-divisional partnerships.
• Excellent analytical, verbal, and written skills

ATTITUDE

• Honest and trustworthy – integrity in every aspect related to the job
• Committed and dedicated – willingness to invest time and effort in doing one’s job
• Highly innovative, creative and resourceful Independent and self-reliant
• Forward-thinking, optimistic and open-minded
• Decisive, assertive and display managerial courage
• Flexible and adaptive to change (both external and internal)
• Stamina – physical, mental and emotional “stick-to-it-tiveness”
• Enthusiasm – ability to stay interested and excited about the job
• Ability to adapt easily to diverse audiences and environments.
• Sense of initiative
• Innovative
• Self-reliant
• Results oriented
• Proactive