At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of high-performance cycling apparel from concept to final handoff.
- Company: Join a leading performance cycling brand based in Edinburgh, known for innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy a creative work environment with opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.
- Why this job: Blend creativity with technical skills while making an impact in the cycling community.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in design and 5+ years of experience in technical apparel required.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities available for junior designers.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Job Description
Senior Designer
Are you a performance-led designer with a sharp eye for detail, form, and function?
Do you thrive on blending creativity with technical knowledge to create apparel that performs on and off the bike?
Can you independently manage complex design briefs while contributing to the creative direction of a global brand?
MacGregor Black is currently partnering with a leading performance cycling brand on the search for a Senior Apparel Designer, based in Edinburgh.
This is a senior-level role within the creative team, responsible for designing high-performance cycling apparel with a clear brand identity and user-led functionality.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the design process across a portfolio of performance and lifestyle cycling apparel, from concept through to final handoff.
- Deliver design solutions that balance creativity, functionality, and commercial viability. Manage more complex and technically demanding briefs.
- Support the Global Design Director and wider team in creative direction, workload planning, and seasonal design execution.
- Ensure all product aligns with brand DNA, visual brand language, and seasonal direction.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Development, Product, and Marketing to ensure alignment on fit, function, and story.
- Research market trends and consumer insights, contributing to seasonal mood boards, colour palettes, and trend forecasting.
- Contribute to sustainability goals by incorporating responsible design choices aligned with business targets.
- Mentor junior designers and support their creative and technical development within the category.
What We're Looking For:
• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Industrial Design, or similar
• 5+ years of experience designing technical or performance apparel, ideally with 2+ years in a senior or lead role
• Proficient in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, CAD, and ideally 3D design tools
• Solid understanding of garment construction, patterning, and production processes
• Experience working with technical fabrics, materials, and trims
• Creative, collaborative, and passionate about delivering high-performance products
• Strong understanding of the athlete's needs and functional design principles
Please contact Tom Honeyman for more details today.
Senior Designer employer: MacGregor Black
Contact Detail:
MacGregor Black Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Designer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the cycling and apparel design industry. Attend relevant events, workshops, or trade shows to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends. This can help you get insider information about job openings and company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your portfolio effectively. Make sure it highlights not only your best designs but also your process and how you tackle complex briefs. Tailor your portfolio to reflect the specific needs of performance cycling apparel to catch the eye of hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the brand thoroughly before applying. Understand their design philosophy, target audience, and recent collections. This knowledge will allow you to speak confidently about how your skills and experiences align with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with sustainability in design. Given the increasing focus on responsible practices, be ready to share examples of how you've incorporated sustainable choices in your previous work, as this aligns with the company's values.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in designing technical or performance apparel. Emphasise your proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and any 3D design tools you may have used.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for cycling and how your design philosophy aligns with the brand's identity. Mention specific projects where you've successfully managed complex briefs and delivered innovative solutions.
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a portfolio that demonstrates your design process from concept to final product. Highlight examples of high-performance cycling apparel you've designed, focusing on creativity, functionality, and commercial viability.
Research the Brand: Familiarise yourself with the brand's DNA and visual language. Understanding their seasonal direction and sustainability goals will help you tailor your application and show that you're a good fit for their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at MacGregor Black
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your ability to blend creativity with technical knowledge, especially in performance apparel.
✨Understand the Brand
Research the cycling brand thoroughly before the interview. Familiarise yourself with their product lines, brand identity, and recent collections to show that you are aligned with their vision and values.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Be ready to discuss your experience with garment construction, patterning, and working with technical fabrics. Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex design briefs in the past.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a senior designer, you'll be expected to mentor junior designers. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've supported the development of others in your team.