At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative direction and develop seasonal colour and print palettes for COS.
- Company: Join COS, a forward-thinking fashion brand with a focus on creativity and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25% staff discount, up to 25 days holiday, and health benefits.
- Other info: This is a full-time, 12-month contract based in London with great growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fashion while working in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in creative roles and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity to join COS as Creative Manager on a 12‑month contract. You will work directly with our Design Director and be responsible for developing and delivering seasonal colour and print palettes, using insights from fashion, art, design, and competitor analysis. You will deliver trend‑led strategies and a continuous flow of inspiration that directly influences the collection and supports the brand's creative direction.
What you will do:
- Creative Direction Leadership – Provide inspirational and strategic leadership to the design team and wider COS functions, ensuring alignment with the brand's vision and long‑term goals.
- Managing seasonal direction, research and workflow – Managing seasonal direction, research and workflow through to final delivery, ensuring alignment with the design calendar.
- Trend, Colour & Print Development – Lead the creation of seasonal colour and print palettes, using research from fashion, art, design, and competitor analysis to deliver relevant and directional content.
- Cross‑Functional Collaboration – Work closely with design, buying, and production teams to integrate trend insights into the collection, ensuring consistency and relevance across departments.
- Team Management & Development – Manage and develop the creative team (colour and trend) guiding them through recruitment, performance, and growth while maintaining high creative standards.
- Insight & Communication – Condense trend research into clear, actionable insights and present findings through seasonal workshops and internal presentations, ensuring creative strategies are understood and implemented across the business.
Qualifications
Alignment to our company values is the most important characteristic we look for in all new joiners. Our values are the behaviours that we appreciate above and beyond anything else. We are open‑minded and curious, we dare to be different, we believe in constant improvement and we empower and trust you to take ownership. Our values are part of who we are, what we stand for and how we act.
Significant experience in a senior creative research or trend‑building role within the fashion industry, either in‑house or an agency environment. A strong ability to translate brand vision into forward‑looking creative strategies, combining trend forecasting, cultural insight and commercial awareness. Proven expertise in both long‑ and short‑term trend forecasting, with the ability to shape elevated colour and print direction. Experience collaborating cross‑functionally, ensuring creative direction is consistently realised across design, buying and production. Strong leadership skills, with ability to build a high‑performing, engaged team while fostering a culture of creativity, accountability and continuous learning. Excellent communication and storytelling skills, able to present clear, compelling ideas that influence and align stakeholders.
Additional Information
This is a full‑time temporary 12‑month contract based at our Head Office in London.
Benefits
- 25% staff discount usable on all our H&M Group brands in stores and online.
- Included in our H&M Incentive Program – HIP.
- Up to 25 days holiday.
- Annual health checks.
- Pension scheme.
- Discounts on various activities and financial/lifestyle products via our benefits hub.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Employee assistance via retail trust.
- Private health & dental care.
Inclusion & Diversity
At COS we're determined to create and maintain inclusive, diverse and equitable workplaces throughout our organisation. Our teams should consist of a variety of people that share and combine their knowledge, experience and ideas. Having a diverse workforce leads to a positive impact on how we address challenges, on what we perceive possible and on how we choose to relate to our colleagues and customers all over the world. Hence all diversity dimensions are taken into consideration in our recruitment process.
Job Location Head Office, London.
COS Creative Manager - 12 Month Contract employer: Cos
COS is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, encouraging creativity and collaboration among its teams. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to extensive growth opportunities and benefits, including a generous staff discount and health initiatives, all while working in the heart of London. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking brand that values innovation and empowers you to take ownership of your creative journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land COS Creative Manager - 12 Month Contract
✨Get in with Local Boutiques
Fashion isn't just about the big names; local boutiques are often on the lookout for temporary staff, especially during busy seasons. Pop in with your CV and a smile, chat with the staff, and show genuine interest – it can lead to an on-the-spot opportunity or, at the very least, a good contact!
✨Leverage Fashion Events
Fashion shows and local events are goldmines for networking. Attend as many as you can! Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, designers, or even models – you never know who might have a lead on temporary roles that aren't advertised yet.
✨Utilise Social Media Like a Pro
Follow brands and influencers in the fashion-apparel industry on social media. Engage with their content and stay updated on their hiring announcements. Many companies post about temporary positions on their Instagram or Twitter, so keep your eyes peeled!
✨Check Out Our Site for Temp Roles
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website for temp roles at companies like Cos. We regularly update our listings, and your best shot at landing something is to jump on it as soon as it drops – so keep checking!
We think you need these skills to ace COS Creative Manager - 12 Month Contract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style:In the fashion-apparel world, creativity and personal style are key! Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique take on fashion—add a touch of personality, maybe even a mood board if you’re feeling adventurous. This is your chance to show how you’d fit into Cos's vibe!
Highlight Relevant Experience:For a temporary role, experience is everything. If you've worked in retail, styling, or even as a personal shopper, make sure to highlight that in your application. We want to see how your past experiences can benefit Cos during this short-term stint!
Include a Portfolio of Your Work:If you’ve got a portfolio—whether that's photos of your styling or designs—attach it! We love to see what you're capable of. It’s a great way to stand out, especially in temporary roles where you might need to make a quick impact at Cos.
Emphasise Your Adaptability:Temporary roles often require juggling different tasks and adapting to changing needs. In your application, mention instances where you’ve showcased flexibility and quick learning. Showing that you’re ready to jump right in will surely catch our eye at Cos.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cos
✨Show Off Your Style
In the fashion-apparel world, your personal style can speak volumes. Make sure to express your fashion sense in your outfit and show off any unique pieces that represent your style while keeping it professional. This gives the interviewers a glimpse of your creativity and flair.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
For a temporary role, it'll be essential to demonstrate your skills quickly. Have a well-curated portfolio that showcases your previous work, whether it's designs, styling, or merchandising. Be prepared to talk through your thought process and the impact your work has had in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Trend Talk
Expect questions about current fashion trends and how they relate to the brand Cos. Being able to discuss recent runway looks, sustainable practices, or trending colours will show your knowledge of the industry and that you’re up-to-date with what's happening in fashion.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
In a temporary position, demonstrating that you can hit the ground running is key. Share experiences from previous roles where you've quickly adapted to new trends or tackled fast-paced environments. Your ability to be flexible shows that you're ready to contribute from day one!