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Design Manager
Application Deadline: 8 June 2026 Department: Design Employment Type: Full Time Location: London Reporting To: Sarah Wilkinson
Our aesthetic is rooted in the whimsical, dark romantic, and esoteric; think celestial motifs, folk magic, alchemical symbols, dreamy botanicals, and vintage occult references. We’re looking to recruit the Design Manager to lead our design team and turn these inspirations into captivating, wearable designs that enchant and empower our customers.
This role sits under the Design Director, engaging closely with buying, fabric, and technical teams to drive creative innovation within critical timelines and ensure alignment with commercial objectives. As Design Manager, you will mentor the team, leverage sales data to inform decision-making, and champion a flexible working culture that adapts to the operational needs of the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership:
- Inspire, mentor, and motivate designers across product categories and disciplines.
- Foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- Provide constructive feedback and guide product development to align with creative direction through key outfits and print stories.
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Innovation:
- Lead sourcing for fabrics, trims, and artistry, underpinned by trend research and market insights with a focus on sustainability.
- Drive creative initiatives using operational performance metrics, sales figures, and consumer insights.
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Team Development:
- Foster skill growth and career progression within the Design team.
- Oversee workflows, track KPIs, and act as cross-department liaison.
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Resourcing:
- Plan, schedule, and manage team resource allocation around critical path deadlines.
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Systems:
- Manage PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems throughout product development workflows.
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Budgeting:
- Oversee budget allocation for inspiration research and external freelance designers.
Requirements
- Experience at a design lead or management level, spanning multiple product categories.
- Strong people management, cross-departmental communication, and presentation skills.
- Comprehensive knowledge of fabric types and garment construction across diverse product categories.
- In-depth understanding of product development cycles, including short and long lead-times, and how to navigate critical path challenges.
- Beginner to advanced familiarity with international factories, mills, and print houses.
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint, and Excel.
- Experience with standardised PLM systems.
- Exceptional entrepreneurial insight for developing well-defined collections and commercial initiatives.
- Ability to embrace a flexible working approach and adapt to dynamic team operational needs.
- Passion for our brand’s cultural references or related themes.
- A commercial mindset, including budget / operational management experience.
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Benefits
- 25 days paid holiday (plus bank holidays), with opportunities for additional days with increased tenure.
- Access to a company bonus scheme.
- Private health insurance.
- Flexible working hours & hybrid working options.
- Cycle-to-work scheme.
- Up to 50% company discount on selected items.
- Retail discounts with high street partners.
- Twice-yearly company events.
- Birthday treats for all team members.
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