Design Director - Kids/Juniors

Our client, an apparel company, is looking for a Design Director for kids/juniors to join their team in NYC!

Responsibilities:

• Direct the creative vision and seasonal design strategy for the kids apparel division, overseeing categories across sizes 7–16
• Develop trend-right concepts, including color stories, prints, graphics, fabrications, and silhouette direction for each season
• Work closely with Merchandising partners to create balanced assortments and support overall business objectives
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of designers, CAD artists, and print designers while encouraging collaboration and innovation
• Research domestic and international fashion trends, retail markets, and competitive brands to identify new opportunities and product ideas
• Manage the design and development process from initial concept through final production approvals
• Present seasonal assortments, design concepts, and business strategies during internal meetings and customer presentations
• Oversee fabric, trim, and packaging development, including special programs and gifting initiatives
• Partner cross-functionally with Production, Sales, Technical Design, Merchandising, and overseas vendors to ensure successful product execution
• Evaluate market trends, competitive pricing, and category opportunities to support continued business growth
• Support the expansion and development of the design organization as the division continues to evolve

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in apparel design, with experience at the Senior Designer level or above preferred
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing creative teams
• Strong understanding of fashion trends, product development, and commercial apparel design across kids categories
• Excellent communication, presentation, and organizational abilities
• Proven success building cohesive assortments and driving category growth
• Strong awareness of the children’s apparel market, consumer preferences, and competitive landscape
• Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while managing multiple deadlines and priorities