DESIGNER/DEVELOPER | WOMENS CONTEMPORARY FASHION
About the company:
My client creates elevated resortwear collections four times a year, known for fusing modern silhouettes with effortless femininity. With a strong focus on design integrity and global appeal, they create pieces that feel as good to wear as they look.
About the role:
This is not your average design role. As the linchpin between concept and creation, you’ll drive end-to-end product development, from that first flicker of inspiration on a mood board, all the way to seeing your designs styled and shot for campaign. You’ll collaborate closely with our creative director, production partners, and sales team to create seasonal collections and retail exclusives that don’t just follow trends—they set them.
About you:
You're a creative force with a sharp commercial eye. Mood boards are your love language, but you also geek out over tech packs and critical paths. You know how to balance artistry with analytics, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and communicate effortlessly with suppliers, stylists, and spreadsheets alike.
Whether you’re finessing prints for a U.S. wholesale capsule or prepping samples for a dreamy resort shoot, you're equal parts detail-obsessed and big-picture-driven. Most of all, you’re someone who’s excited to grow with an expanding brand and leave your fingerprint on collections seen (and worn) around the world.
If you're interested in hearing more about this position, please send your CV to connie@whointhezoo.com.au or jade@whointhezoo.com.au to organise a confidential chat.
Hiring Consultant: Connie/Jade
Job Code: SS09
Please note that only those applicants who fit the brief will be contacted in relation to their application.
RESPONSIBILITIES +
Range Planning
- With Contract Creative Director Research and present seasonal trends, colour palettes, mood boards, and overarching direction for approval by the founder
- Ensure each collection aligns with the product matrix, pricing architecture, and monthly delivery requirements
- Update and adapt best-selling styles and silhouettes with new fabrics and prints
- Collaborate with Sales to align creative development with commercial objectives and regional demand
Design and Development
- Assist and collaborate with the Creative Director on seasonal collections and special projects
- Source and select fabrics, trims, and prints—including exclusive developments for key wholesale partners in the U.S. market
- Create detailed technical sketches and work with the Garment Technician to develop complete tech packs
- Manage proto development, lab dips, and strike-offs, ensuring timely approvals
- Maintain close relationships with offshore suppliers to ensure smooth sampling and production transitions
- Oversee the development and management of sample sets across collection, e-comm, and sales needs
Timeline & Critical Path Management
- Own and maintain adherence to the design and development critical path from concept through to SMS delivery
- Flag delays, bottlenecks, or risks early to ensure proactive mitigation
- Work cross-functionally with Production, Operations, and Marketing to ensure seamless execution of deadlines across the business
- Ensure all internal and external stakeholders are aligned on key dates, deliverables, and milestones throughout each season
Costing & Margin Management
- Liaise with suppliers to ascertain costs during development stage to ensure Margin will be achieved and maintain updated costing sheets
REQUIREMENTS +
- You must have proven experience 3-5 years with a womenswear business - ideally luxury / contemporary or RTW