Designer - Outdoor Apparel at Cape Union Mart

Job Description

• 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