The Associate Apparel Designer is responsible for a portion of the Apparel Designer's business; designing, developing and executing product designs that achieve Belk's Private Brand objectives, and overall product strategy. They ensure that all aspects of the garment design remain consistent to each brand's profile and adhere to the timely seasonal assortments that are relevant to the brand[s] position and target customer. Participate in research and development of seasonal trends and ensure that designs meet merchant line plans, assortment strategies, price points, and overall creative direction. This position requires strong management skills at a process and communication level.

Essential Functions:

Partners with Apparel Designer or Senior Apparel Designer to ensure that department goals and priorities are alignedHelps provide the creative vision for a specific product category or brand[s] - has the ability to inspire ideas/ new concepts outside the current assortment[s]Partner with the Apparel Designer on the creative vision for their specific product category or brand[s]Research markets for silhouette/ color/ fabric trends outside the current assortment(s) each seasonIdentify and share opportunities for process improvementManage PLM systems, libraries, and projects to achieve Belk goals in accordance with company policy and practicesCreate and present design concepts to Apparel Designer, Design Management, Brand Management, Merchant Teams, Technical Design and Vendor partners!!Partner with Textile Designer to ensure compelling print assortments and color palettesApply understanding of design process and Private Brands/Merchant’s business objectives to ensure consistency and drive financial resultsCollaborate with Apparel Designer, Design Management, Brand Management, Overseas Offices, Merchandising, Trend Department, Textile Design, Technical Design/QA, and Vendors to achieve product execution, maintain design integrity, and streamline the development processProduce cohesive product presentations to sell concept to entire team, including boards, tear sheets and samples!!Provide coaching and feedback to others on team as appropriate and supported by Apparel DesignerSpecial projects and other duties as assignedRequires designated hybrid in-office work schedule

  
Education and Experience:    

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent years of experience        Specific Degree: Fashion Design, Fine Art or related field        Specific Training: Must be proficient in design programs: Illustrator, Photoshop, etc    3-5 years applicable experience preferredIndustry experience: Large retailer or manufacturer        Strong attention to detailStrong commercial sense and market knowledge of garment construction!!Must be able to distinguish colorDemonstrates strong people skills and the ability to be an effective communicator, and team playerAble to work effectively in a culturally diverse environmentAbility to research and to apply market trend informationWilling to travel to stores and vendors/factories worldwideWorking knowledge of design and product development processesAbility to prioritize and manage workload with multiple deadlines

#LI-KH3

#IND3

#LI-HYBRID