At a Glance
- Tasks: Design innovative prints for Womenswear Jersey & Knitwear, collaborating with a creative team.
- Company: Join Matalan, a dynamic retailer known for its inclusive culture and innovative spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 20% staff discount, wellbeing support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive environment that champions equality and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make your mark in fashion design while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in Womenswear design and strong skills in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As a Womenswear Jersey & Knitwear Designer at Matalan you will be responsible for designing and innovating the best prints for our product, at the right place, at the right time for the required place for specified categories.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy & KPIs
- Work in conjunction with the Head of Design/Design Manager to formulate, plan & present the departmental design strategy ensuring alignment with the Menswear / Company strategy guidance.
- Formulate and agree the product direction for your specified categories with the Head of Design/Design Manager.
- Define the seasonal range framework for your specified categories, that is aligned to the overall strategy and KPIs.
- Range Design/Development
- Collaborate with the Buyer and Merchandiser to develop commercial ranges within the agreed seasonal range framework and in line with the defined strategy and KPIs.
- Present the ranges in an impactful way ensuring correct samples are used and all product delivers the agreed vision and strategy.
- Working collaboratively to forecast and agree Key/Core/Continuity/Fashion Line packages aligned with the main departmental strategy and range framework.
- Work with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure product is fit for purpose and of the right fit/shape/quality/value for the Matalan customer.
- Collaborating and aligning with the Head of Design/ Design Manager/ Designers you identify and drive the delivery of innovative, new product opportunities for your category and department.
- Trading
- Using a broad and relevant range of internal / external data and insight, continually evaluate your specified categories to ensure design plans are adapted and informed by timely forecast / insights / trading, ensuring commercial decisions are made.
- Supporting and maintaining control of design/dept critical paths and taking appropriate commercial action alongside Buying & Merchandising.
- Maximise the use of trading reactions and OTB working with the buying team to seek the latest product innovation within your categories.
- Understand market trends and translate for the Matalan customer to optimise category performance.
- Suppliers
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with key suppliers to ensure we have the very best product, delivered on time for our customer.
- Working with the buying/sourcing team, continuously review the design process within the supply base, working with suppliers on new techniques and product innovations to continuously build and push on existing/new product within your categories.
- With the Head of Design/Design Manager, support the delivery of outsourced design, and coordinate Supplier Designers and Freelancers.
- Team Leadership and ways of working:
- In collaboration with your peers, take a common approach to addressing key business and people challenges.
- Share best practise to benefit the overall Design team and Trading function.
- Create an environment for the team where:
- Each colleague is clear in their role and the part they play in delivering the overall Trade strategy and KPIs.
- Everyone can develop their skills and capabilities and see opportunities for personal growth.
- Colleagues are supported and coached based on individual strengths, development needs and aspirations.
About You
- Womenswear experience essential
- Knit/Jersey Design background essential
- Relevant qualification in fashion design or equivalent experience
- Strong working knowledge of Adobe Software including Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Strong understanding of seasonal trends with the ability to translate this in both a creative and commercial manner in a fast-paced environment
- Demonstrated experience in growing and managing a team
- Strong relationship builder with a proven record of managing stakeholders cross functionally.
- Excellent communication and engagement skills.
- Experience managing 3rd party suppliers and Freelancers.
About Matalan
From humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, find out about how Matalan is ever-evolving here. We know as a team, we are stronger together we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth.
We want give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don't hesitate to let us know.
In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.
Benefits
- 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
- Thrive Recognition Scheme
- Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
- Life Assurance
- Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
- Pension Scheme
- Access to a wide range of career development
- Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business
Vormgever in Liverpool employer: Matalan
Matalan is an exceptional employer for a Womenswear Jersey & Knitwear Designer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, Matalan provides numerous career development opportunities, alongside competitive benefits such as a generous staff discount and wellbeing support. Located in a dynamic retail environment, the company champions equality and encourages its team members to bring their authentic selves to work, making it a truly rewarding place to build a career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vormgever in Liverpool
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like Matalan!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including Matalan.
✨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 Matalan.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at Matalan!
We think you need these skills to ace Vormgever in Liverpool
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 Matalan.
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 Matalan!
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 Matalan. 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 Matalan
✨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
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨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!
