Sr. Designer - Swim (hybrid)

Sr. Designer - Swim (Hybrid)

Job Category: Product Development

This is a hybrid role with three weeks per month onsite (Mon – Thurs). The fourth week is fully remote.

As a Senior Swimwear Designer, you will lead the design and development of the swimwear category from concept through production. You will create seasonal product concepts and manage the design process to support departmental strategy and business objectives. As a senior member of the team, you will play a key role in guiding design decisions, prioritizing initiatives, and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure product excellence. You will work closely with Merchandising, Creative, Print/Pattern, and Sourcing/Technical Design teams to deliver high-quality, well-fitting, and trend-right swimwear assortments.

Job Functions:

• Oversee the design and development of swimwear products by translating concepts into finished garments through collaboration with Merchandising, Technical Design, and Product Development.
• Lead research and development efforts for swimwear trends, fabrics, and silhouettes. Present design direction through sketches, mood boards, and design decks.
• Partner with Sourcing to manage raw material research and development, including swim-specific fabrics, trims, and hardware.
• Collaborate with Merchants to build and manage seasonal line plans that align with brand strategy and financial goals.
• Manage direct reports to ensure adherence to product development calendar and milestone meetings.
• Present swimwear concepts and development updates to leadership. Prepare presentation materials including boards, samples, and mock-ups. Step in for Design Director when needed.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional partners throughout the development cycle.
• Demonstrate leadership and professionalism in resolving design-related challenges.
• Onboard and mentor team members, providing training and development opportunities to support growth.
• Represent the Design team in cross-functional initiatives and special projects.
• Domestic and international travel required for inspiration, development, and vendor collaboration.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of swimwear construction, fit, and performance fabrics.
• Expertise in textile development, color theory, and print techniques specific to swimwear.
• Ability to interpret and apply brand aesthetic to swimwear designs.
• Excellent presentation and storytelling skills.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Proactive, accountable, and self-motivated.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Positive attitude and flexible approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to lead fit sessions and provide clear design direction.

Leadership Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team of 2–4 designers or assistants.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to team members.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Set clear performance expectations and conduct regular evaluations.
• Address performance issues constructively and professionally.
• Participate in recruitment and onboarding of new team members.
• Identify training needs and promote continuous learning.
• Serve as liaison between upper management and the design team.
• Resolve team conflicts and ensure effective communication.
• Manage team resources and project assignments efficiently.
• Align team goals with broader organizational objectives.
• Contribute to strategic planning and implementation within the department.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• 7+ years of swimwear design experience and/or a degree in Apparel or Fashion Design.
• Prior experience in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Proven success in leading and developing high-performing design teams.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.