Senior Apparel Graphic Designer in Manchester

Mitchell & Ness is a globally recognised heritage sportswear brand known for its premium craftsmanship, authenticity, and deep connection to sports culture. Founded in 1904, the company has built its reputation by producing high-quality, officially licensed apparel that celebrates the history of major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL. Renowned for its iconic throwback jerseys, vintage-inspired designs, and attention to detail, Mitchell & Ness blends timeless style with modern streetwear appeal.

Mitchell and Ness International is part of Fanatics Commerce, where we are more than just a leader in licensed sports merchandise - we are a team united by a relentless passion for our fans and a commitment to innovation. We live by our BOLD Leadership principles: We Build Championship Teams, we are Obsessed with Fans, we embrace a Limitless Entrepreneurial Spirit, and we approach every challenge with a Determined and Relentless Mindset. If you are ready to contribute to a dynamic, fast-paced environment that thrives on collaboration and growth, we want you to be part of our team.

ROLE OVERVIEW

Lead the creative development of apparel and headwear graphics across seasonal collections, from concept to final execution, ensuring alignment with the product calendar and commercial objectives. Translate brand creative direction and briefs into on-trend, commercially relevant design solutions while collaborating closely with Category Managers, Product Designers, and Developers to deliver high-quality, market-ready products. Provide leadership to a team of Graphic Designers, mentoring and guiding their development, driving consistency in design standards, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing creative environment.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

• Undertake market, trend, and competitor research to inform seasonal graphic direction, print, and artwork execution across apparel ranges.
• Create and develop original graphics, prints, and placements using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, producing high-quality, production-ready artwork.
• Collaborate with Category Management and Product Design & Development to deliver commercially relevant graphic ranges, informed by sales data, trend insight, and brand direction, including the evolution of core styles.
• Review samples, strike-offs, and lab dips from suppliers, providing clear feedback to ensure graphic accuracy, colour integrity, and alignment to the original design intent.
• Work closely with Product Development to ensure all artwork is executed in line with design briefs, considering print techniques, cost constraints, and margin requirements.
• Lead and mentor a team of Graphic Designers, providing creative direction, feedback, and support to drive consistency, quality, and individual development.
• Champion creativity within the branded category, pushing graphic innovation while respecting brand guidelines to maximise commercial impact and differentiation at retail.
• Manage multiple projects within a fast-paced environment, maintaining strong organisation, attention to detail, and a proactive, confident approach to delivering to critical path timelines.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM:

• Significant experience designing apparel graphics across multiple categories, with a strong understanding of print, placement, and commercial application.
• A relevant degree in Graphic Design, Fashion Graphics, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Proven ability to work across a variety of graphic styles, techniques, and print methods, with a strong eye for trend and brand relevance.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and relevant design software, with the ability to produce accurate, production-ready artwork.
• Strong understanding of branded and licensed product, with the ability to balance creative expression and brand guidelines to maximise impact.
• Experience leading or mentoring designers, with the ability to inspire creativity, provide clear direction, and elevate team output.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deliver to tight deadlines within a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail, ensuring consistency and accuracy from concept through to production.
• A creative yet commercially aware mindset, combining strong design instincts with a logical, problem-solving approach.
• A keen interest in sport, fashion, and culture, with an understanding of how this influences graphic trends and consumer demand (desirable).

At Fanatics, we value transparency and honesty. If you do not meet every single requirement, that is okay - we still want to hear from you! We believe in the power of diverse experiences and talents. If you are excited about the role and confident that you can contribute, do not hesitate to apply. We are genuinely interested in how your unique skills and perspective can help us build something amazing together.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU:

• Culture: Join a team where you are surrounded by top-tier talent, driven by a shared passion to relentlessly enhance the fan experience. With a focus on collaboration, support, and continuous development, you will be empowered to help shape our culture that celebrates both individual and team successes.
• Benefits: At Fanatics, we are dedicated to supporting you in all aspects of work and life; as such we offer a range of competitive benefits tailored to each country in which we operate. Specific details regarding the benefits package applicable to your location will be shared and discussed during the interview process.