Junior Clothing Designer in Bury

At GO Outdoors our purpose is strong and clear; “to inspire and equip everyone for life outdoors”. That’s because we passionately believe in the positive benefits of the outdoors, whether that be the daily dog walk or hiking Ben Nevis, horse riding or cold water therapy, we provide the best equipment for all outdoor activities, always at the best price guaranteed! Our values aren’t just posters on the wall; we live them every day with ‘One Team’, ‘Responsibility’, ‘Passion’, and ‘Integrity’, helping us fulfil our mission to be the nation’s favourite outdoor retailer. If you share our passion and want to make a difference, join our team and be part of something unbeatable.

The Junior Clothing Designer – Outdoor responsibly reports to the Senior Designer and works with the Department of Exclusive Brands Clothing and accessories at the JD Group Head Office in Bury, Greater Manchester. The role focuses on supporting the design and development of own‑brand outdoor and technical clothing and soft accessories across multiple brands, products and seasons.

Responsibilities

• Build an understanding of each Own Brand’s DNA and their customer.
• Utilise trend report platforms such as WGSN to identify emerging fashion, trims, colour and graphic trends.
• Create seasonal trend reports to drive each brand’s seasonal direction and develop customer profiles.
• Take part in retail research trips and comp shop visits to expand brand knowledge, build trend awareness and conduct competitor research.
• Assist the Senior Designer in creating new seasonal collections across multiple brands.
• Design creative, commercial and compelling outdoor and/or technical clothing and soft accessories.
• Fully utilize Pantone and Coloro systems to ensure clear colour communication throughout the business.
• Create design presentations and technical CADs.
• Present designs to the wider team and ensure all product information is clear and correct for product sign‑offs.
• Create clear and detailed tech packs and set up artworks for manufacturing – training or guidance will be provided by the Senior Designer.
• Ensure all CADs and tech packs are up to date and correct throughout the season.
• Work alongside the product development team and attend fit sessions.
• Approve lab dips, trims, bulk fabrics and other samples – supported by the Senior Designer and product developers when necessary.
• Brief the Graphics Designer to develop on‑trend graphics for each season.
• Communicate with suppliers to ensure all design queries are answered in a timely manner.
• Use the PLM system – training will be provided if needed.
• Manage the fabric library and (Pantone & Coloro) colour books.
• Liaise with the buying team to understand each brand’s direction and season.
• Collaborate cross‑departmentally with buying, merchandising, web and marketing to keep product information accurate.

Qualifications

• A degree or equivalent qualification in fashion or product design.
• Good working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator and Acrobat, and Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
• Experience in a fast‑paced working environment.
• Strong time‑management and organisational skills – able to work to the critical path with attention to detail and meet all deadlines.
• Strong teamwork, communication and interpersonal skills – both verbal and written.
• Positive attitude, proactive and eager to learn new skills.
• Ability to multitask – working on multiple styles, brands and seasons simultaneously.
• Strong interest in fashion design and emerging trends – interest in outdoor or technical design is a bonus.
• Strong creative vision and love for the outdoors is beneficial.
• Familiarity with PLM systems is a plus; training will be provided.
• Knowledge of 3D design and AI software is advantageous but not required.