Design Manager

• Lead, inspire, and manage a dynamic design team to create inspiring ranges for Matalan
• Foster a collaborative and creative environment, encouraging the team to push boundaries in design
• Develop and execute a comprehensive design strategy aligned with the overall company goals
• Keep abreast of industry trends, competitor’s ranges, and evolving consumer preferences to guide informed and strategic design decisions
• Translate market research into actionable design concepts
• Create and deliver Matalan’s seasonal trends to key stakeholders
• Clearly communicate design strategies, goals, and progress to cross-functional teams
• Collaborate across divisions to ensure designs align with market demands and business goals
• Work closely with marketing to create compelling product stories to deliver key customer moments
• Work closely with B&M to ensure the critical path is adhered to and achievable
• Support design team members with workload to ensure the critical path remains on track
• Manage yearly travel, sample and freelance budgets offering best value for Matalan
• Manage designer’s salaries within company budget requirements
• Improve the design team’s skills through mentoring and support. Key areas are problem solving, communication, team collaboration and leadership skills
• Develop individual career growth plans for the design team
• Build resilience in team members by upskilling them and fostering an supportive environment

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or a related field
• Proven experience in a similar environment, experience in retail preferred
• Menswear experience is advantageous
• Previous leadership or management experience in a design-related role
• In-depth knowledge of garment construction, fabrics, and manufacturing processes
• Strong understanding of market trends and consumer behaviour in the UK fashion industry and the skill to communicate that business wide
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability and desire to support, mentor and develop a design team
• Capacity to thrive in an ever changing, deadline-driven environment

Menswear experience is advantageous

• 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
• Thrive Recognition Scheme
• Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
• Life Assurance
• Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
• Pension Scheme
• Access to a wide range of career development