Job Description
Want to see your designs worn by millions? As a Designer at TOPSHOP, you’ll be plugged into 20-something culture and on the pulse of the latest fashion and trends that our customers love. You’ll need to be a creative, commercial and highly experienced Designer who works collaboratively. Designers play a critical role at TOPSHOP working closely with Merchandising, Buying and Technical teams to build a commercial and trend-led product range for the department that is loved by the TOPSHOP customer, globally.
As Designer on Bags, you will need to have a creative eye that can cover elevated bags for the brand. The successful candidate will have a strong knowledge of bag profiles and experience of working with suppliers and factories to develop the newest pieces for every season. This is a fast-paced department which is constantly pushing new design concepts where originating not replicating is fundamental. Creativity and innovation are at the heart of product development at Topshop and as a Designer you will be key in driving this for the nags department and within the wider design team. New profiles, focus on detail and execution drive our new product with consideration over the quality, key in delivering a range which excites the Topshop customer and meets all her needs, ensuring the range has the ultimate stand out pieces.
The Details
1. Researching, developing and creating a market leading Bags range including developing big deals, key seasonal profiles and elevated pieces for the TOPSHOP customer.
2. Experience working with Far East suppliers, India and European suppliers for bags including leather and embellishment to offer a variety of fabric bases and execution of product as required within the range.
3. A strong trend eye in giving direction on bags is required to work with our current supply base.
4. Strong vision and direction on fabric basics, materials and detail for Core and premium ranges driving product quality for pieces that mix easily in your wardrobe with designer pieces.
5. Identifying and executing new product opportunities to ensue as a brand we are leading the fashion market not following.
6. Anticipating the needs of the 20-something customer, using sales data, customer profile analytics and trend research to deliver commercial product ranges.
7. Working closely with in-house Buying teams – collaborating to create fresh product, each season and shape the product direction for the department, ensuring that it is aligned to the brand and divisional strategy.
8. Working with the Technical team on fits on a weekly basis, identifying and helping create new profiles for the department and produce a commercial range.
9. Managing, developing and motivating more junior team members, providing them with clear direction and regular feedback.
10. Maintaining a clear understanding of brand purpose and Fashion with Integrity and ensuring these principles are fully embedded within the team. Looking for opportunities to use sustainable materials wherever possible.
11. Supporting our culture by championing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategies.
Qualifications
About You
12. Significant experience in designing bags within an aspirational brand or high street Retailer.
13. Experience of working cross-functionally to deliver initiatives that have a positive commercial impact.
14. Proven ability to drive the success of a department or brand through strategic and commercial thinking.
15. A commercial handwriting and strong understanding of the TOPSHOP Brand and Customer.
16. Experience with Photoshop, Adobe, CAD with PLM and advantage.
17. Plugged into 20-something culture and fashion, passionate about the product.
18. Strong organisational skills, initiative, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
19. The ability to build great relationships with colleagues across the business and suppliers alike.
20. Can gain buy in from the team and management to potentialize opportunities.
21. Embraces and champions the benefits of change within the wider team.
22. Demonstrates an effective and inclusive leadership style, role modelling positive behaviours and providing the team with clear direction and development.
23. Comfortable travelling in the UK and internationally for supplier/product development meetings and inspirational purposes.
Additional Information
BeneFITS’
24. Employee discount (hello ASOS discount!)
25. ASOS Develops (personal development opportunities across the business)
26. Employee sample sales
27. Access to a huge range of LinkedIn learning materials
28. 25 days paid annual leave + an extra celebration day for a special moment
29. Discretionary bonus scheme
30. Private medical care scheme
31. Flexible benefits allowance - which you can choose to take as extra cash, or use towards other benefits
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