At a Glance
- Tasks: Design innovative womenswear jersey and knitwear, creating stunning prints that resonate with our customers.
- Company: Join Matalan, a dynamic retailer known for its inclusive culture and creative spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 20% staff discount, wellbeing support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment that champions personal growth and teamwork.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values creativity and collaboration while making a real impact in fashion.
- Qualifications: Experience in womenswear design and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop required.
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 practice 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 to 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
Designer Womenswear in Warrington employer: Matalan
Matalan is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, empowering its employees to thrive creatively and professionally. As a Womenswear Jersey & Knitwear Designer, you will benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises personal growth, offers competitive salaries, and provides a range of perks including a generous staff discount and wellbeing support. Located in a dynamic retail setting, Matalan encourages innovation and teamwork, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer Womenswear in Warrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow designers, attend industry events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work, especially in womenswear jersey and knitwear. When you get an interview, bring physical copies or have a digital version ready to share.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Matalan’s latest collections and trends. Be ready to discuss how your design vision aligns with their brand. This shows you’re not just interested in any job, but specifically in working with them.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Designer Womenswear in Warrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Creativity:As a Designer, your creativity is your superpower! Make sure to showcase your unique design style and innovative ideas in your application. Use visuals or a portfolio link if you can – we love seeing what you can do!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application. Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in womenswear and knitwear design. We want to see how your skills align with our needs at Matalan!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your experience and skills. Avoid fluff – let your talent shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Matalan
✨Know Your Prints
As a Womenswear Jersey & Knitwear Designer, it's crucial to showcase your understanding of prints and patterns. Before the interview, research current trends in knitwear and jersey fabrics. Bring along a portfolio that highlights your best work, especially pieces that demonstrate your ability to innovate and align with Matalan's vision.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Matalan values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with buyers, merchandisers, and other designers in the past. Think of specific examples where your collaborative efforts led to successful product launches or innovative designs, and be ready to share these stories during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure you’re comfortable discussing your proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Be ready to explain how you use these tools in your design process. If possible, bring a laptop or tablet to demonstrate your skills on the spot, as this can really impress the interviewers.
✨Understand Matalan's Market
Research Matalan’s customer base and their preferences. Be prepared to discuss how you would translate seasonal trends into designs that resonate with their audience. Showing that you understand their market will demonstrate your commitment and readiness to contribute to their team.
