Lead Product Designer (apparel)

Work closely with Apparel Design Manager and team to design and develop product based on creative direction, product brief and line plan strategy. Create conceptual design sketches which convey body, styling, fit intent, fabrics, trims and colors. Collaborate with Apparel Design and Graphic Design teams to create consistent story-telling across leagues and brands. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Product Development, Sourcing and Merchandising on complete product strategy to meet financial targets.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead development of seasonal, replenishment and special event lines working closely with Apparel Design Manager
• Create design sketches which convey body, styling, fit intent, fabric, trim, and color
• Must be an integral partner with Merchandising, Sourcing and Product Development teams to create a smooth transition between initial concepts and final products
• Collaborate with Apparel Design Manager to lead design, branding, trims, fabric details along with league and tier segmentation
• Work closely with development team to ensure design intent is carried through to final product
• Responsible for balancing brand identity rules with creative opportunities in order to elevate the league brands as well as Fanatics Brand through visual storytelling
• Strong knowledge of trends, consumer insights, new opportunities, and competition
• Brainstorm new business opportunities with Product Line Managers, Sales, and Marketing contacts
• Provide unique insight into relevant market trends with a point of view on commercial viability of styles with a consumer-focused mindset
• Provide mentorship to junior designers

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Apparel Design, Merchandising, or related field with 7+ years professional experience. A commensurate level of 8+ years professional in apparel design is acceptable without a degree. Portfolio of previous work required.
• Minimum 7+ years of professional experience required
• Experience in licensed sports preferred
• Expert knowledge of apparel design, fabrics, trims and construction techniques
• Expert knowledge of Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management systems
• Knowledgeable on latest creative software programs, techniques, and applications
• Strong verbal, written, and visual communication skills both internally and externally
• Ability to create and execute in a deadline-oriented environment
• Individual is able to network and have a professional and positive attitude with internal and external clients and teams
• Demonstrate openness to new ideas and differing opinions
• Must have strong organization skills in order to troubleshoot and manage multiple projects
• Must be results focused and highly detail oriented
• Resolve problems timely and delivers decisions and direction in a professional manner
• Strong interpersonal skills enabling the individual to interact effectively with people at various levels
• Familiarity with U.S. Sports and properties and a passion for great product and design

Fanatics Commerce is a leading designer, manufacturer, and seller of licensed fan gear, jerseys, lifestyle and streetwear products, headwear, and hardgoods. It operates a vertically-integrated platform of digital and physical capabilities for leading sports leagues, teams, colleges, and associations globally – as well as its flagship site, www.fanatics.com.

Fanatics Commerce has a broad range of online, sports venue, and vertical apparel partnerships worldwide, including comprehensive partnerships with leading leagues, teams, colleges, and sports organizations across the world—including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, Formula 1, and Australian Football League (AFL); the Dallas Cowboys, Golden State Warriors, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Chelsea FC, and Tokyo Giants; the University of Notre Dame, University of Alabama, and University of Texas; the International Olympic Committee (IOC), England Rugby, and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).