At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design and product development for private-label collections, managing projects from concept to production.
- Company: Fast-growing international design and manufacturing business supplying major retailers.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and potential for permanent position.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel and collaborate with teams in the UK and India.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fashion by leading innovative design projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in textile or fashion design, with strong leadership and customer-facing skills.
Location: Manchester
Hybrid work: 3 days in the office, 2 days from home
Salary: £40,000–£45,000 per annum
Maternity cover 9 month with potential to become permanent
The company: A fast-growing international design and manufacturing business supplying private-label products to major UK and European supermarket, high-street and fashion-led retailers.
Main duties:
- Lead the design and product development of private-label collections, managing customer accounts and projects from concept to production while supporting designers and working with sales, sourcing and manufacturing teams.
The role:
- Lead design and product development for key retail customers
- Develop seasonal concepts, prints, patterns, colour palettes and collections
- Translate customer briefs into commercially successful products
- Present concepts and collections to customers
- Manage licensed and branded projects
- Research fashion, lifestyle and retail trends
- Manage projects from concept through to production
- Review samples, lab dips, strike-offs and approvals
- Work closely with sourcing, product development and manufacturing teams
- Lead and support designers in the UK and India
- Identify new product, design and sustainability opportunities
- Travel in the UK and internationally as required
The candidate:
- Solid experience in textile, fashion or product design
- Design Manager, Senior Designer or similar leadership experience
- Essential: previous experience working with UK supermarkets
- High-street and fashion-led retail experience highly desirable
- Private-label design experience
- Strong customer-facing and presentation skills
- Strong print, pattern, colour and textile knowledge
- Licensed or branded product experience advantageous
- Excellent Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop skills
- Good understanding of product development and manufacturing
- Commercially aware with an understanding of retail price points
- Trend-focused, creative and confident
- Strong project management and organisational skills
- Personable, collaborative and confident managing a team
The salary: £40,000–£45,000 per annum, depending on experience
Design Manager – Private Label in Manchester employer: FRENCH SELECTION
As a leading international food manufacturer, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. With a focus on professional development and growth opportunities, our team enjoys the flexibility of remote work combined with the excitement of travel across Germany, all while being supported by competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. Join us to be part of a collaborative environment where your contributions directly impact our success in the FMCG sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager – Private Label in Manchester
✨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 FRENCH SELECTION. 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 Design Manager – Private Label in Manchester
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 FRENCH SELECTION'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 FRENCH SELECTION 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 FRENCH SELECTION.
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 FRENCH SELECTION.
How to prepare for a job interview at FRENCH SELECTION
✨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 FRENCH SELECTION. 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!
