Assistant Designer (Non-Clothing) in Southampton

Role Summary

To design a commercial range of products which is in line with the Design direction and brand strategy. Assist the Designer in all aspects of the design function.

Role Responsibilities

• Assist in gathering information on season trends appropriate for the Fat Face brand through research, competitor visits and reviews of past performance.
• Input into the department product strategy producing competitor and product information as required.
• Monitor supplier and market activity to update own knowledge with the latest trends, techniques and washes to ensure the Fat Face products are up to date.
• Originate and develop design ideas which deliver the design direction, and which are in line with the departmental product strategy.
• Produce comprehensive design packs, ensuring accurate and completion in line with critical path, work with the buying team to achieve right first-time sampling.
• Be aware of selection meetings and chase in relevant proto samples from supplier.
• Attend fit sessions when required to ensure the design signature is accurately interpreted through the development stage and that the products remain on brand.
• Supervise, train and develop the design assistant. Monitoring performance against their training programme, highlighting areas for improvement.
• Oversee the management of design samples, boards and information for meetings to ensure all requirements are satisfied.
• Feedback on current trends and styling information and make suggestions for product designs, understanding the implications on the critical path.
• Keep up to date with department and product sales performance and trading activity and feedback into design process.
• Develop self through store, competitor, shows and supplier visits. And through increased awareness of other functions and company activity.
• Deputise for the Designer when required.
• Align self to companies social and environmental mission and champion any actions that you can directly impact at all times.

Skills and Experience

• Design experience required.
• Previous experience in garments essential.
• Degree or equivalent in design-based subject.
• Presentation skills.
• Use of computerised design system – Photoshop, Illustrator.
• Good communication and influencing skills.
• Good planning and organisation skills.
• Supervisory and task delegation.

Role Competencies

• Good understanding of customer profile, product range and competitors.
• Brand and market awareness.
• Up to date with changing trends and able to translate into commercial designs.
• Knowledge of critical path and product life cycle.
• An understanding of the supply chain for product and fabric sourcing and development.
• Understanding of garment construction.
• A team player who is happy to support across wider design team when necessary.
• Passion for product and design.

Key Contacts and Relationships:

• Internal: Design Team, Buying Team, Merchandising Team, Quality Team, Marketing Team.
• External: Suppliers, Freelancers.

Accountable for Resources:

• Design Outputs: Tech Packs, Proto Samples, Trend Reports.
• Critical Path Management: Design Timelines, Project Milestones.
• Sample Management: Design and Proto Samples.
• Design Assets and Materials: Fabric, Trim, and Color Libraries, Mood Boards and Trend Boards.
• Collaboration Tools and Reports: PLM System and Documentation, Feedback Loops.
• Brand Standards and Vision: Adherence to Brand Guidelines, Sustainability Goals.

FatFace Benefits:

• Financial & Protection Benefits: Sick pay allowances, Critical Illness Income protection/ Death in service, Pension scheme, Dental insurance, Discounts & Perks.
• Learning & Development: THRIVE – our learning management system.
• Time Off & Leave: 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, Sabbatical leave, Enhanced family-friendly policies, Flexible Working Opportunities.
• Additional Perks: Refer a Friend scheme.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply — you might be just the right fit.