Responsibilities
- Design and develop innovative, trend‑led footwear and potentially accessory ranges across multiple brands and customer profiles.
- Research and translate emerging trends, colour palettes, and materials into commercial product concepts.
- Work cross‑functionally with Ladieswear, Buying, Technical, and Studio teams to ensure collections are cohesive and aligned with brand direction.
- Prepare and present design concepts, mood boards, and trend direction for internal reviews and seasonal sign‑offs.
- Design with the customer in mind, understanding brand positioning, price architecture, and key seasonal focuses.
- Partner with suppliers and factories to develop samples, refine materials, and maintain product integrity through to production.
- Balance creativity with commercial viability, ensuring products meet margin and cost targets.
- Support the Head of Design with seasonal strategy, product innovation, and long‑term design direction.
Qualifications
- A strong portfolio showcasing creative, trend‑led, and commercially viable designs.
- Excellent understanding of footwear construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.
- Strong trend forecasting and visual research skills.
- Confident in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and proficient in CAD.
- Exceptional styling eye and ability to interpret trends across different customer demographics.
- A collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively across multiple departments.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and able to work to multiple deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
- Proven experience designing ladies footwear (and ideally accessories) for a fashion retailer or supplier.
Benefits
- Hybrid working (2‑3 days in the office at a minimum)
- 24 days holiday (+ 8 bank holidays)
- Annual bonus scheme
- Enhanced maternity and adoption leave
- Company pension with up to 8% N Brown contribution
- Mental Health support both internally and externally, including access to our wellbeing champions and counselling services
- A range of financial wellbeing support
- Stream – a financial wellbeing tool that helps you track your pay, access earnings early and manage your money with confidence
- Colleague discount across all N Brown brands
- Onsite café with subsidised rates and local restaurant discounts
- Life Assurance and Private Medical Insurance
- Paid volunteer time – all our colleagues can take a full day paid to volunteer for a charity of their choice
We are committed to building a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive environment that values equality for all. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging are at the heart of our culture.
