Fashion Design Director

Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Design Director to lead our knitwear design division. This role requires deep expertise in knit categories, strong familiarity with Target and/or Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F) product needs, and the ability to drive market intelligence to inform design strategy. The ideal candidate will combine creative leadership with analytical insight, ensuring our collections are trend-right, commercially viable, and aligned with U.S. retail standards.

Key Responsibilities - Creative Direction: Analyze Target’s current product portfolio and identify missing categories or trends.

• Propose innovative product designs and concepts that align with Target’s brand and consumer expectations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (merchandising, sourcing, marketing) to ensure successful product launches.
• Research and design for other brands when required, maintaining high standards of creativity and market relevance

Key Responsibilities - Market Intelligence: Conduct ongoing research into consumer trends, competitor assortments, and retail performance.

• Translate market insights into actionable design strategies and product innovations.
• Monitor shifts in sustainability, yarn technology, and consumer preferences in the U.S. market.
• Lead the knitwear design team, setting seasonal creative vision and design strategy.
• Planning for sales approach to enter knits category at Target.

Key Responsibilities - Collaboration & Execution: Partner with merchandising, sourcing, and product development teams to align design with business goals.

• Build strong relationships with U.S. buyers and retail partners, especially Target.
• Guide suppliers and factories to ensure accurate execution of knit structures and finishes.

Key Responsibilities - Leadership: Mentor and develop junior designers, fostering creativity and technical excellence.

• Manage timelines, budgets, and deliverables to meet seasonal calendars.
• Represent the design function in cross-functional strategy meetings.

• 8+ years of experience in knitwear design, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of designing for Target or similar U.S. retailers.
• Strong knowledge of yarns, stitches, knitting techniques, and garment construction.
• Expertise in market intelligence tools (trend forecasting, retail analytics, consumer insights).
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and 3D design software (CLO, Browzwear a plus).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Must be based in the USA or have extensive U.S. retail experience.
• Strong business acumen with ability to balance creativity and commercial viability.
• Experience integrating sustainability into knitwear design.
• Ability to anticipate and respond quickly to market shifts.