Senior Knitwear Designer

We are working with a luxury knitwear brand who are seeking a Senior Knitwear Designer to lead the creation of refined, modern collections in premium yarns, with a particular focus on cashmere. This role spans concept, colour and stitch development through to SMS and production, partnering closely with sales, technical and global manufacturing to deliver beautifully made product on time and to margin.

Based in Leeds, this is an exciting opportunity within a growing business and is ideal for someone looking to step up, make their mark, and grow with the brand. You'll need to be a team player: organised, commercially aware, and genuinely passionate about knitwear.

This role offers hybrid working, 3 days per week in the office (Leeds). Main responsibilities will include:
Defining seasonal direction across silhouette, stitch, gauge and colour, translating insights into clear range plans and mood boards. Designing cohesive womenswear capsules that balance brand DNA with commercial viability across fine to chunky gauges. Creating precise CADs and factory-ready tech packs, including stitch layouts, measurements and construction notes. Steering sample development with overseas partners, assessing fit, handle and wash, and driving timely approvals.

Working alongside production to confirm yarn selection, make methods and costings that meet quality and margin targets. Preparing and presenting collections for internal reviews and client meetings, responding quickly to feedback and briefs. Managing the design critical path from concept to SMS, ensuring milestones, samples and sign-offs are met. Mentoring junior team members and supporting smooth workflow, sample tracking and documentation.

Person specification:

Previous experience in womenswear knitwear design within a luxury or contemporary environment. Advanced Illustrator and Photoshop skills; familiarity with 3D or AI-aided workflows is advantageous. Excellent understanding of knit structures, garment construction and fitting, with experience working with Far East factories. Confident presenter and collaborative communicator, able to influence cross-functional teams and clients. Highly organised, proactive and comfortable owning multiple projects from concept through delivery.