At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop trendy footwear from concept to final samples.
- Company: Join Gardiner Bros, a family-run business with a rich history and global partnerships.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, discounts, life assurance, and a pension plan.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team shaping footwear trends for top brands.
- Qualifications: Creative with strong CAD skills and a passion for footwear design.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Salary: £45,000 per annum
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 – 17:00 (37.5 hours)
Location: Stonehouse, GL10 3EZ (Hybrid – 1-2 days per week in the office)
At Gardiner Bros, we believe how we treat people matters. Starting as a small family run business in 1860, we’ve grown into a multi-million-pound partner to over 80 global brands, including Skechers, Crocs, Hush Puppies, Muck Boots along with our own brands Amblers Safety and Cotswold. We are also proud to distribute to some of the UK's Largest Online, Highstreet, and Outdoor retailers – Next, John Lewis, Screwfix, Mole Valley, Cotswold Outdoors, Freemans, JD Williams, Very, and Littlewoods to name a few.
What will the Footwear Designer role entail?
- You will take ideas from initial concept through to approved samples, to create footwear that is relevant to consumers, aligned with brand direction and capable of driving growth.
- Working closely with our brand development managers, merchandisers, footwear technician and international factory partners, you’ll have the opportunity to influence collections across the full design and development process.
- Creating concepts, CADs, colour palettes, product briefs and development packs.
- Translating trends, consumer insight and commercial requirements into compelling footwear ranges.
- Keeping up to date with footwear trends, competitors, materials and product innovation.
- Working with factories and suppliers to develop products and resolve design or development challenges.
- Reviewing samples and providing feedback on materials, construction, fit, functionality and overall product quality.
- Presenting seasonal trends, collections and product stories to internal teams, customers and key stakeholders.
- Attending product reviews, supplier meetings, trade shows and customer appointments when required.
- Collaborating with different departments across the business to deliver successful collections.
What are we looking for in a Footwear Designer?
- We are looking for someone who is creative, commercially minded and passionate about footwear, to join our buying and merchandising team and play a key role in creating and developing commercially successful footwear collections across our portfolio of brands, focusing on Hush Puppies, Base London, Frye and Sperry.
- Strong CAD, sketching and presentation skills.
- A good understanding of footwear construction, materials and manufacturing.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with confidence presenting concepts and collections.
- Excellent organisation and attention to detail.
- A collaborative, flexible and hands on approach.
Why Join us?
- 25 Days annual leave entitlement.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
- Generous staff discounts on all brands we supply.
- Life Assurance & Company Pension.
- Local Gym Membership Discount.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know—we are happy to help!
Gardiner Bros & Co Ltd, Unit 4, Indurent Park, Haresfield, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 3EZ
Footwear Designer in Stonehouse employer: Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd
At Gardiner Bros, we pride ourselves on our family-run heritage and commitment to treating people with respect. As an Area Sales Manager in the Midlands & Wales region, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusivity, alongside competitive benefits such as generous annual leave, enhanced parental leave, and discounts on our extensive range of brands. With opportunities for personal growth and development, you will play a key role in driving success while representing leading safety and workwear brands in a dynamic market.
Contact Details:
Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Footwear Designer in Stonehouse
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
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✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd.
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We think you need these skills to ace Footwear Designer in Stonehouse
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers) Ltd
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
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✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
