Design Director, Knits & Sweaters

Design Director, Knits & Sweaters – John Varvatos

Soho, New York, New York

• Partner with the Vice President of Creative and Team to create a cohesive collection that adheres to the creative aesthetics of the brand
• Ability to create and update all technical design packages and line lists from initial design through to stock approval
• Ongoing vintage research to facilitate productive design and creative brainstorming sessions
• Prepare presentation boards
• Participate in the conceptual development of the line which includes presenting ideas/concepts and influencing others to adopt a course of action
• Research markets (e.g. NY, LA, & Europe) to identify new trends, fabrics and wash/finish techniques and present tear sheets, sketches and samples to VP, Creative
• Source and develop new fabrics and yarns, stitch constructions, washes and trims that are brand and trend appropriate while remaining conscious of price point
• Work with Team to ensure design packages are completed in a timely manner and accurately reflect relevant design details (e.g. thread, trim, wash instructions, lab dip comments, quality approvals, etc.)
• Work with Team to ensure any design changes agreed to in fittings are accurately updated in design packages
• Manage and adhere to design calendar and attend all relevant product meetings as required
• Assist with other responsibilities and projects as needed
• Liaise with yarn agents and Mills to collect prices of qualities
• Liaise with yarn agents, knit mills on developing qualities exclusive to John Varvatos
• Liaise with factories / agents on product development
• Keep and create organized binders of lab dips, SMS cuttings, and qualities on a seasonal basis
• Help with supporting design team when styling for shows and presentations
• A natural awareness of perceived value of product
• Create new sweater stitch techniques using CAD work
• Approve and/or correct appropriate color lab dip
• Sketch new designs and silhouettes
• Visit the mills and factories to source new technique, yarn & fabric

• Strong hand sketching and illustration skills
• Know how to troubleshoot and work well under pressure
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Strong organizational skills
• Resourceful, hands‑on, and able to sense urgency
• Technical knowledge of yarn construction, yarn counts
• Understanding of Knitting techniques, machine gauges and stitch construction
• Strong computer skills, proficient in Photoshop, Excel and Word

• 6-8 years design experience in luxury men’s industry

Your career matters to us and we will do what it takes to help you on your journey in life. You’ll be challenging yourself and your leadership. The opportunities will be there, and you’ll be working within an environment that rewards hard work and innovation. Internal promotion is the norm not the exception and you’ll be supported in your ambition to reach the next step of your career.

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Dependent Care Accounts
• Commuter & Parking Saving Accounts
• 401(k) Enrollment - Traditional 401(k)
• Paid Time Off & Sick Leave
• Voluntary Additional Life & Disability Coverage for Spouse and Child(ren)
• Basic Life and Disability
• Short/Long-Term Disability
• Accident & Critical Illness
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Pet Insurance
• Personal Clothing Discount and Clothing Allotment
• Eligible Commission Program
• Full Price: 2% commission on all sales for first 90 days, 5% after
• Outlet: 2% commission on all sales for first 90 days, 3% after

• RESPECT:
  We treat our team, customers, suppliers, partners and planet with respect, always. We speak respectfully about and to others. We respect our customer's valuable time, and each other's. We work as a unified team and respect each other's differences
• RESOLVE:
  We are determined and we do not give up. We follow through on our commitments. We take accountability and face challenges with enthusiasm
• RAREFIED PASSION:
  We act with utmost integrity. We seek to continually improve and respond to feedback. We advocate for our brand, customer and product
• REFINEMENT:
  We pay fanatical attention to the details that make the John Varvatos difference. We strive to be exceptional in all we do.

This role is being offered at an annual rate of $ commensurate on experience.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer, and we very much look forward to working with you.