Designer - DSW

General Summary:

The Designer Designs innovative product true to the brand DNA. The Designer will execute the design process translating brand vision from leadership into globally relevant, innovative, commercial designs. The Designer will develop designs that capture the targeted new markets, increase consumer demand, and deliver on the design assignment in a timely manner. May lead a team of assistant and /or associate designers.

Reports to:  Design Director

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

•            Applies research to specific designs. In partnership with Design Director, makes decisions on coloring the line (applying materials and colors)

•            Communication with overseas development teams including leather and fabric teams. Spec development and management.

•            Apply seasonal brand direction, market research, trend insight, and knowledge to interpret business to select materials, and actively creates and presents new innovative concepts

•            Develop and create illustrations and technical drawings for new design concepts and digital renderings of materializations in Photoshop and Illustrator, detailing concept, materials, and development specifications based on brand design guidelines

•            Manage and drive multiple design projects from conceptualization to finished product adhering to calendar deadlines while completing digital template guidelines

•            Review prototypes in a timely manner and update tech packs to reflect agreed upon changes and modifications

•            Collaborate with the production team to design products within specific pricing and market segment goals

•            Collaborate and clearly communicate with production and design teams to ensure design objectives are reflected in the creation and execution of the product

•            Prepare and present design projects, clearly communicating design vision

•            Collaborate with and support peers and sales teams to ensure season runs smoothly

•            Proactively anticipate how to manage design deadline in order to meet critical dates

•            International travel as required. Attendance at tradeshows and events may also be required as directed

•            Coach and develop a team of one or two assistant designer(s) if applicable

Required Skills and Competencies:

Required Skills:

•  Ability to use market research, trends and industry knowledge to participate in upcoming design meetings

•  Must be a team player, exhibiting strong communication skills and flexibility

•  Strong organizational, time management and prioritization skills, attention to detail and accuracy

•  Professional demeanor and customer service oriented

•  Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite; Illustrator and Photoshop

•  Ability to sketch, CAD and understand foundational design elements

Competencies:

Strategic Thinking – Creates and effectively communicates long term vision. Keeps team’s work aligned to strategy. Creates and adjusts plans. Understands big picture to constructively challenge the status quo. Generates new ideas. Encourages innovation. Manages change effectively. Knows internal strengths and weaknesses.

Leading & Motivating – Models and supports DSW values. Assesses, identifies, retains and develops talent. Builds complementary teams. Motivates, supports and challenges associates. Resolves conflict. Makes tough decisions. Provides timely feedback. Works with and through others to exceed expectations of customers (internal/external)

Managing for Results – Produces sustainable results consistently. Holds team accountable. Recognizes and resolves complex problems. Understands underlying issues and addresses root causes. Measures, analyzes quantitative information and presents it effectively. Seeks input from others. Makes timely decisions.

Qualifications:

Experience:

•            5+ years related footwear design experience.

•            Experience creating technical drawings, tech-packs, CADS and merchandising boards.

Preferred Qualifications:

Education:

•            Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in footwear design, fashion or industrial design in order of preference.

The estimated pay range for this position is $109,000 to $136,000. The successful candidate’s actual salary offer will take into account a wide range of job-related factors including skill sets, years and nature of relevant experience, training, pay rates of associates in similar positions, the candidate’s location, and other organizational needs. The estimated pay range has been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential. This range does not include benefits such as health insurance, paid or unpaid time off work, and retirement.

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