Design Director - Sweaters, 525 America Brand

About the Role

NYC Alliance is seeking an accomplished Design Director specializing in sweaters to lead the creative direction for their 525 America label. This leadership position involves driving the innovation and artistic development of knitwear collections with a focus on yarns, stitch techniques, and evolving silhouettes while maintaining a consistent brand identity and meeting customer expectations. This role demands a blend of technical knitwear expertise and a strong fashion sensibility aligned with current market trends.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the creative vision and seasonal strategy for the Women's Sweaters category.
• Design cutting-edge knitwear informed by trends, emphasizing yarn innovation, stitch patterns, and silhouette refinement.
• Lead and cultivate a team of designers to foster creativity, collaboration, and ensure high standards of execution.
• Collaborate with Product Development, Merchandising, and Marketing to create unified assortments aligned with brand and business objectives.
• Analyze market trends and advances in yarn technology and knit techniques to guide design choices.
• Prepare comprehensive tech packs detailing knit specifications, gauge, stitch construction, and yarn components.
• Conduct fittings, advising on garment fit, proportion, and knit construction to optimize product performance.
• Work closely with mills and vendors to innovate yarns and knit structures exclusive to the brand.
• Manage timelines and workflows to guarantee punctual development and production milestones.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or a related discipline.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in design with a strong emphasis on sweaters and knitwear.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and nurturing design teams.
• Deep knowledge of knit construction, yarn development, and sweater engineering.
• Capability to translate the brand’s vision into commercially viable knitwear collections.
• Proficient user of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office suite.
• Expert understanding of garment fit, construction, and manufacturing specific to knitwear.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership abilities.
• Ability to perform effectively in a high-pressure, deadline-focused environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive remuneration packages with an annual salary of $175,000.
• Comprehensive health benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Account options.
• Retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Enjoy Summer Fridays for work-life balance.
• Employee discounts and additional perks.
• Salary may vary depending on specific role requirements, skills, and years of experience as determined by NYC Alliance.