Menswear Designer (Fashion)
10 hours ago
Leeds
JOB TITLE: MENSWEAR DESIGNER LOCATION: MKI HQ (BINGLEY, WEST YORKSHIRE) JOB TYPE: ONSITE, MONDAY-FRIDAY DEPARTMENT: DESIGN START DATE: IMMEDIATE ABOUT THE ROLE As a designer, you will become a key member of the MKI product team, working directly with the CEO and alongside the wider design department to create and develop our menswear collections. This is a hands-on role, responsible for designing and developing products across mainline apparel, jersey and accessories. You will work across multiple collections simultaneously, supporting both seasonal and non-seasonal projects at different stages of the product lifecycle. From initial research and concept through to sampling, fittings and production, you will play a key role in bringing product to market while working closely with suppliers, manufacturers and internal teams to deliver commercially successful collections. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Research seasonal trends, fabrics, colours and market developments (including attending fashion weeks, trade shows, fabric fairs where required), • Design and develop seasonal and non-seasonal collections across apparel, jersey and accessories., • Produce high-quality cads, technical drawings and product visuals using Adobe illustrator and photoshop., • Create detailed tech packs and development documentation for suppliers and factories., • Manage product development from concept through sampling, fitting, approvals and production., • Lead sample fittings, providing clear feedback and development direction to suppliers., • Own and manage product critical paths to ensure key deadlines are achieved., • Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers throughout the development process., • Support the creation of wholesale sales tools, product presentations and marketing assets., • Analyse product performance and identify opportunities to improve future collections., • Support the development of special projects and brand collaborations. ABOUT YOU We're looking for an experienced designer with a strong product eye and a genuine understanding and knowledge of the contemporary menswear market. The ideal candidate will have: • A minimum of 4 years' experience designing menswear., • Experience designing across mainline apparel, jersey and accessories is desirable., • Experience in leading fit sessions and sample review sessions., • Strong cad skills and the ability to produce clear technical drawings and comprehensive tech packs for production., • Excellent Adobe creative suite skills, particularly illustrator and photoshop., • A strong understanding of garment construction, fabrics and product development., • Excellent commercial awareness with the ability to balance creativity and commerciality., • Confidence presenting ideas and collections to senior stakeholders., • Experience working directly with factories and suppliers., • Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple collections and deadlines simultaneously., • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach WHY JOIN MKI? This is an opportunity to become part of a fast-growing global menswear brand where you will have genuine influence over product direction. You'll be joining a passionate, ambitious team with the freedom to contribute ideas and help shape the next stage of MKIs growth. KEY INFORMATION • Full-time, permanent position., • Based at our headquarters in Bingley, West Yorkshire., • Monday to Friday (this role is fully office-based and is not suitable for remote or freelance applicants)., • Immediate start available.