About us:
At Theory, we create clothes that matter that empower and improve the way we live through exceptional fit, fabric, and style. In 1997, Theory was founded in New York on the simple idea that stretch fabrics in tailored clothing could change how we dress and live. Two decades later, we continue to perfect our offering of elevated wardrobe essentials for the ambitious, urban man and woman. From sourcing materials from the best mills in the world, to the innovation and craftsmanship at our atelier in New York's Meatpacking District, the integrity of our process is just as important as our final product.
In 2004, Theory was acquired by Fast Retailing, spurring the international expansion of the brand. Operating 440 stores worldwide, today Theory is a New York brand with a global mindset. Our customers dream big, achieve goals, and aim for perfection. So do we, and so do our clothes.
Responsibilities:
Become an integral part of Theory. We are seeking a Design Director, Knitwear to lead our Men’s Knitwear Design team. Reporting to the Creative Director of Menswear, this person will operate with a strong point of view on color, yarns, and trends that will develop a cohesive vision for the brand. The Design Director will use exceptional design skills, leadership skills, and knowledge of the current market and historical brand references to create innovative, commercially viable products, from concept to production. This position will motivate, mentor, and develop the knit design team.
- Drive the research, design, and innovation of all knitwear categories, including both cut and sewn and fully fashioned knitwear.
- Research and analyze upcoming fashion and market trends, and competitive product offerings to understand the contemporary market and identify opportunities relevant to our product.
- Think innovatively and commercially at all creative, design, and development stages.
- Operate strong and synergistic relationships with cross-functional partners: Fabric R&D, Merchandising, Marketing, Sales, Technical, PD, and Production.
- Undertake comprehensive research to aid in developing new product offerings.
- Pitch design ideas confidently and clearly, operating with a clear point of view.
- Develop strategic design plans with projected timelines and budgets.
- Lead creative sessions to generate ideas.
- Inspire, motivate, mentor, and develop the men’s design team to deliver a cohesive vision for the brand.
- Execute and manage calendar deadlines and line plan goals to ensure the design process stays abreast of business needs.
- Research to be at the forefront of trends and shifts in the Fashion landscapes. Stay abreast of parallel and influential industries.
- Ensure garments meet their respective categories' fit, comfort, and construction goals.
- Maintain high design standards and review design work to ensure it meets these standards and adheres to brand guidelines.
- Allocate and manage design resources, ensuring clear direction for the team.
Qualifications:
- 10-15+ years of experience in Knitwear Design with demonstrated success.
- A bachelor’s degree in apparel design or a related field, as well as a foundation in an art school capacity, may also be considered.
- Longevity in a full scope Design position.
- Experience working in high-end and/or contemporary brands.
- Strong design aesthetic with exceptional silhouette, color, and trend-forecasting ability.
- Ability to translate trends to a commercial audience while staying innovative and meeting price/margin goals.
- Follow the execution of all product details beyond form, fit, and performance, including construction, color, style, detail, and cost/value requirements.
- Successful experience working effectively at a senior level and proven ability to provide guidance, mentoring, and direction to direct reports.
- Strategic thinking and the ability to align design efforts with business goals and objectives.
- Strong collaborator who has experience working with multi-disciplined teams, including fabric R&D, production, PD, tech design, merchandising, wholesale, and marketing.
- Strong knowledge of knitwear, yarns and stitches development.
- Entrepreneurial, highly motivated self-starter who can influence, troubleshoot and problem-solve.
- Proficient in PLM, Microsoft Office, Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop.
Salary: $150,000.00 to $190,000.00
*The offered salary or salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills and expertise, and location of the position.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Theory LLC does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, citizenship, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or because of any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Ensure your Theory job offer is legitimate and don't fall victim to fraud. Theory never seeks payment from job applicants. Feel free to ask your recruiter for a phone call or other type of communication for an interview, and ensure your communication is coming from a Theory or sister company email address. For added security, where possible, apply through our direct job posting.
