At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design narrative for Liberty Brand, creating innovative collections rooted in our heritage.
- Company: Join Liberty, a historic name in British fashion known for craftsmanship and creativity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and creativity in a supportive workplace that values unique perspectives.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fashion while honouring a rich legacy in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: 8 years in senior design roles with expertise in print and textile development.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Founded in 1875, our long history has been built on innovation, craftsmanship and above all, incredible talent. Born from the adventurous spirit of our founder, Arthur Lasenby Liberty, we remain true to our heritage. From our fulfilment centres to our flagship store, passion, vision and dynamism are part of our DNA – and that extends to our team.
Job Purpose
As Head of Design at Liberty Brand, you will define the seasonal creative narrative for one of the most storied names in British fashion; translating our archive and handwriting into collections that feel both rooted and forward. You will lead a close-knit studio team, work directly with the Liberty Italian Printing Mill, and hold creative accountability across Apparel, and Liberty Brand, with a remit that spans ready to wear and accessories. This is a role for someone who holds creative vision and commercial reality in equal measure, who can move between the archive room and the boardroom without losing either thread.
The Role
- Creative Direction & Seasonal Vision
- Define the seasonal creative narrative for Liberty Brand, covering print, silhouettes, colour, texture, and mood, distinctive, forward-looking, and rooted in the Liberty handwriting.
- Translate global fashion trend direction, runway intelligence, and cultural reference into collections that feel relevant without being derivative.
- Lead the full design process across all product categories from initial concept through to final sign-off, working across ready to wear and accessories.
- Own the colour, scale, placement, and colourway sign-off process.
- Present collections with authority, providing creative context, commercial rationale, and market positioning to internal teams, key customers, press, and international agents.
- Archive, Production & Innovation
- Act as senior custodian of the Liberty archive, collaborating with archivists to innovate and realise its commercial and cultural value.
- Serve as primary design liaison with the Liberty Italian Printing Mill and Production/QC teams, bridging creative vision and manufacturing reality.
- Drive technical development of new base cloths, finishes, and printing techniques.
- Identify opportunities for strategic product expansion beyond traditional textiles.
- Champion sustainability and ethical material innovation across design and production.
- Leadership & Collaboration
- Lead, mentor, and performance manage the Design Studio team, building a pipeline of creative talent with clear pathways for growth.
- Ensure seamless communication and workflow across Design, Sales, Merchandising, Production, QC, and Licensing.
- Provide the Design Director with timely strategic updates on creative progress, team performance, budget, and production milestones.
About You
- 8 years in a senior design role within a premium or luxury fashion, textile, or print house.
- Deep knowledge of print design, textile development, colour theory, and fabrication, with a strong womenswear sensibility.
- Proven experience working directly with European textile manufacturers.
- Demonstrated experience managing and drawing from a significant creative or historical archive.
- Strong commercial track record, able to hold creative vision and market reality in equal measure.
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing design teams.
The qualities that set you apart
- A natural storyteller. You build seasonal narratives that are coherent, compelling, and distinctively Liberty.
- A custodian of craft. Obsessive about quality from first sketch to final bolt, never letting commercial pressure diminish the work.
- Deeply curious. Constantly looking at the runway, the archive, the street, the world. Never derivative.
Equal Opportunities
Liberty is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and opposes all forms of unlawful discrimination. We are committed to creating an environment where people from all backgrounds can thrive – bringing their unique perspectives, skills, and experience to everything we do. We are dedicated to eliminating both conscious and unconscious bias from our practices. Our approach is grounded in respect, fairness, and consistency, ensuring that no one is treated less favourably based on gender, race, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or any other protected characteristic.
Head of Design, Liberty Brand "Liberty is the chosen resort of the artistic shopper" Oscar Wilde. employer: Theinsideout
At Liberty, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, fostering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and innovation. As the Head of Design, you will lead a passionate team in a historic setting, with ample opportunities for professional growth and collaboration across various departments. Our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, combined with our rich heritage, makes Liberty not just a workplace, but a community where your creative vision can truly flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Design, Liberty Brand "Liberty is the chosen resort of the artistic shopper" Oscar Wilde.
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fashion industry, especially those connected to Liberty. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about sliding into DMs. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. When you get the chance to chat with someone from Liberty, bring it along or share it digitally. Visuals speak volumes, especially in design!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Liberty's history and current collections. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their brand narrative. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but a perfect match for their ethos!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Liberty family. Don’t forget to follow up after applying – a little nudge can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Design, Liberty Brand "Liberty is the chosen resort of the artistic shopper" Oscar Wilde.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Creative Vision:When you're writing your application, make sure to showcase your unique creative vision. Talk about how you can translate the Liberty archive into fresh, exciting collections that resonate with today's fashion landscape.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As a Head of Design, you'll be leading a team, so don’t forget to mention your experience in mentoring and managing design teams. Share examples of how you've built talent and fostered collaboration in previous roles.
Connect with Our Heritage:Liberty has a rich history, so it’s important to connect your personal design philosophy with our brand's heritage. Let us know how you can honour our past while pushing boundaries for the future.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Theinsideout
✨Know Your Archive
As the Head of Design, you'll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of Liberty's rich history and archive. Before the interview, spend time familiarising yourself with key pieces and stories from the archive. This will not only show your passion for the brand but also help you articulate how you can innovate while respecting its heritage.
✨Showcase Your Creative Vision
Prepare to discuss your creative process and how you translate trends into collections. Bring along a portfolio that highlights your previous work, especially projects where you've successfully merged creativity with commercial viability. Be ready to explain your thought process behind each piece and how it aligns with Liberty's ethos.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a leader, it's crucial to convey your ability to mentor and manage a design team. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team through challenges or fostered talent. Be prepared to discuss how you would build a pipeline of creative talent at Liberty and ensure seamless collaboration across departments.
✨Emphasise Sustainability and Innovation
Liberty values sustainability and ethical practices, so come prepared with ideas on how you can champion these initiatives within the design process. Discuss any past experiences where you've implemented sustainable practices or innovative techniques in your designs, showing that you can balance creativity with responsibility.