At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of premium knitwear collections and inspire creativity.
- Company: Join John Smedley, a heritage brand in luxury knitwear.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a creative environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with a focus on craftsmanship and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of British luxury fashion with your design expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in fashion design and a passion for knitwear.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
Design Manager - Luxury Knitwear Fashion 4 Days per week | Fixed-Term Contract (1218 Months) Up to £36,000 per annum Matlock, Derbyshire
Start
Date: September 2026 Lead the future of British luxury knitwear design At John Smedley, design is where heritage, craftsmanship and innovation come together.
For over 240 years we've been creating the world's finest knitwear, combining exceptional British manufacturing with contemporary design to produce garments recognised and respected around the world.
Unlike many fashion brands, our design, product development and manufacturing teams all work together on-site.
This fully integrated approach gives our Design team the rare opportunity to collaborate closely throughout every stage of the product journey, seeing ideas develop seamlessly from concept through to production while maintaining the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that define John Smedley.
We're looking for an experienced and inspiring Design Manager to join our business on a 1218 month fixed-term contract to cover maternity leave.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead the design and development of premium knitwear collections within one of Britain's most iconic luxury brands.
Reporting to the Chief Product Officer, you'll lead our Design and Product Development function, shaping the future directio...
Design Manager - Luxury Knitwear Fashion employer: JOHN SMEDLEY
John Smedley is an exceptional employer that champions a quality-first culture, offering a supportive work environment where innovation and excellence are celebrated. Located in the heart of the UK, employees benefit from a rich heritage and a commitment to professional growth, with ample opportunities for development and advancement within the company. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters a sense of pride in delivering outstanding results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Luxury Knitwear Fashion
✨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 JOHN SMEDLEY. 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 - Luxury Knitwear Fashion
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 JOHN SMEDLEY'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 JOHN SMEDLEY 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 JOHN SMEDLEY.
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 JOHN SMEDLEY.
How to prepare for a job interview at JOHN SMEDLEY
✨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 JOHN SMEDLEY. 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!
