Senior Designer – Sports Performance Wear

• Senior Designer – Sports Performance Wear

Senior Designer – Sports Performance Wear

Womenswear

Location Manchester

Office Based

Salary unto £45k dependant on exp.

Job Summary:

Due to growth our client is seeking a highly creative and innovative Senior Fashion Designer with a focus on sportswear and performance wear. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of technical materials, fabric innovation, and functionality while ensuring style and design meet the demands of active and athletic consumers. This role will involve concept development, design, and collaboration with product developers to bring functional, high-performance garments to life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design Development:
  • Create innovative sportswear and performance wear designs, focusing on functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal for high-performance activity sports.
  • Develop concepts, mood boards, and sketches based on current trends, consumer needs, and market research.
  • Collaborate with the design and product development team to create prototypes and oversee the sampling process.
• Fabric & Material Research:
  • Stay up-to-date with advancements in fabric technology.
  • Source and select appropriate performance fabrics and trims that enhance athletic performance and durability.
• Technical Design:
  • Translate design concepts into technical drawings and detailed specifications for pattern makers and manufacturers.
  • Work closely with technical teams to ensure accurate fit, construction, and quality of final products.
  • Working closely with PD/GT and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimum comfort and performance.
• Trend & Market Analysis:
  • Monitor current and emerging trends in fashion, sportswear, and activewear, ensuring the brand remains competitive in the market.
  • Analyse consumer behavior and competitor activity to identify new design opportunities.
• Liaise with the product development, marketing, and merchandising teams to ensure designs align with brand identity and commercial goals.
• Present designs and collections to internal stakeholders, providing clear rationale behind design decisions.
• Project Management:
  • Manage the design process from conception through to final styling, adhering to timelines and production schedules.
  • Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of design prototypes and production samples.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • 5+ years of proven experience in fashion design, with a focus on sportswear, activewear, or performance wear.
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating innovative designs and knowledge of sportswear performance fabrics and technologies.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficient in design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop.
  • Excellent knowledge of garment construction, and technical specifications.
  • Strong understanding of the production lifecycle, from initial design through to finished product.
• Knowledge:
  • In-depth understanding of athletic and performance wear requirements, including ergonomics, breathability, thermal regulation, and compression technologies.
• Creative & Analytical Abilities:
  • Strong sense of color, style, and fabric aesthetics with a keen eye for details.
  • Ability to conduct market research, analyse trends, and develop competitive, forward-thinking designs.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Strong presentation skills to articulate design concepts and technical details to various stakeholders.
• Experience with branding and creating cohesive collections.
• Experience working with international suppliers and manufacturers.

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to work with an innovative and dynamic team.
• Continuous learning and development in sportswear and performance wear.
• Collaborative work environment with career growth opportunities.

To Apply:

Please submit your CV, portfolio, detailing your experience in sportswear and performance wear design.