Designer, Wrangler Collaborations & Special Projects

Who We Are:

Kontoor Brands is a portfolio of three of the world’s most iconic lifestyle, outdoor and workwear brands: Wrangler®, Lee® and Helly Hansen®. Kontoor Brands is a purpose-led organization focused on leveraging its global platform, strategic sourcing model and best-in-class supply chain to drive brand growth and deliver long- term value for its stakeholders.

Job Posting:

Designer: Wrangler Collaborations & Special Projects

This position reports to the Director of Collaborations & Special Projects and is responsible for all design activities related to Collaborations & Special Projects. Works with cross-functional work streams to drive new, trend right and innovative product consistent with the merchandising brief, while staying true to the Brand DNA. Designer is responsible for owning the category/business from concept to pre-production. Works with cross functional teams to build out concept, color, artwork direction, fabric and trims, and wash direction. Is an expert in the design process and has creative solutions to build efficiencies in the daily design functions.

Responsibilities:  

• Brand Awareness – Understands Wrangler’s Brand Creative Vision and DNA and utilize this tool to implement new ideas and innovations.
• Strong individual contributor – Creative designer who develops and delivers innovative and brand right concepts, color, print & pattern direction, and wash direction. Responsible for designing into brand right products. Ability to create plaids and simple prints and to recolor.
• Competitive Positioning – Responsible for the creative aesthetic from concept to consumer for all product and assortment needs. Market research of inspirational and competitor brands. Stay connected to what’s happening in the market and understand the trends that are emerging. Understand the history and hindsight of the past seasons to help drive relevant new styles and potential white space.
• Style Ownership – Review and comment on the details, construction, fabrics, trims, and wash on prototypes with Product Development and overseas partners. Troubleshoot with PD and overseas partners to meet cost targets. Discuss and strategize style changes and line enhancements with Merchandising partners.
• Fit Development – Partner with Technical Design team to build into best in class fits and cost efficient constructions.
• Market Ready Presentation – Responsible for presenting concepts and communicating seasonal direction and designs at Milestone Meetings. Manage and maintain the building of Design presentation boards, decks and Design cadsheets.
• Team Collaboration – Be a positive influencer to junior designers and direct reports. Must have excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills to be able to connect, communicate, and work efficiently with the Design and Cross-functional teams. Teamwork and clear communication are essential to ensure your teams have the most up-to-date information.
• Go-to-Market Calendar and Deadlines – Understand and deliver to the go-to-market calendar deadlines. Know how to anticipate what’s coming next and what your team/manager may need/want.

Skills for Success:  

• Strong knowledge of sourcing fabrics and trims.

• Driving to build the best in class garments with strong knowledge in construction and fit.
• Strong knowledge of garment finishing and washing.
• Proficient in designing - Adobe Creative Suite – Illustrator, Photoshop, etc, flat sketching skills, and building tech packs.
• Familiar with V-Stitcher/3D design – preferred but not required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs - as Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Efficient in verbal and written communication skills.
• Take ownership and initiative in your category, able to problem solve, think creatively, focus on the details, and a commitment to high quality of work.
• Highly organized and able to communicate appropriately.
• Have confidence in presenting and have strong story-telling skills.
• Strong multi-tasking capabilities – be able to be flexible and agile while prioritizing time and deadlines.
• Build trust with your team members in Design, Merch, Tech Design, Overseas Partners, etc.
• Be a positive influencer and mentor junior designers and direct reports.
• Have a positive attitude and outlook and be a team player.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in apparel design, art, graphics or equivalent combination of experience preferred.
• 5+ years of professional experience in apparel design, with at least 1-2 years managing people.

Special Physical and/or Mental Requirements: