Designer Manchester, England
Job description
Castore exists for one single reason – to make athletes better. Our ethos is built upon the philosophy of BETTER NEVER STOPS, an ideal deeply infused in our DNA and something we strive to live every single day. We utilise advanced engineering and unique technical fabrics to create the highest quality sportswear in the world for athletes who demand the very best. Designed with a passion for innovation with specialist features to help to optimise athletic performance in all conditions.
The founders’ vision is to build Castore into a brand respected across the globe for a deep and unrelenting commitment to engineering the highest quality sportswear in the world, with no stone left unturned in its search for innovation and performance enhancement.
The sportswear market has been dominated by a small clique of mass-market brands and the vision is for Castore to be a premium alternative to these, the natural brand of choice for discerning athletes who demand the very best.
What’s the Job?
Reporting to the Design Manager on Motorsport, you will be responsible for supporting the creation of the Castore Motorsport collections from concept to completion. You will be working on an array of global partnerships across Motorsports.
What will I do?
- To be fully engaged in the complete design process, from origination of design concepts and briefs; including working on given briefs, working towards range plans and pricing structures, through to catalogues for Go To Market and supporting the creative team in general.
- Conduct research into the relevant partnership areas including history of the Partner, their inspiration points, iconic figures, latest innovations and designs as well as graphics references.
- Compile excellent reference material relevant to the Partner account and the Castore brand; research trends, colour palettes and inspiration to compile mood boards into compelling presentations.
- Create and finalise detailed & accurate tech packs.
- Work with the Design Manager & Team to prepare all materials for key design milestones & meetings.
- Research and find new fabrics and production methods to improve sustainability.
- Work closely with Product Development, Garment Technologists & Account Management as well as contributing to peer group Design reviews across departmental projects.
What skills and qualities will I need?
- BA in Fashion or textiles, or equivalent
- +4 years of proven design experience within the sportswear or outdoors apparel industry.
- Ability to manage time, multi-task and work effectively on several projects simultaneously.
- Commercially minded, quickly responding to business/partnership needs.
- Excellent collaborative work ethic, integrity and reliability with a “hands on” attitude
- Comfortable travelling on behalf of the business to Partners & Suppliers when necessary.
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator & Microsoft Office suite
- Knowledge of premium & aspirational sportswear products
- Ability and aptitude with Graphic Design as well as Apparel Design
- Knowledge and experience with design for production and efficient manufacturing
- Personable, optimistic & team orientated
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Modern city centre offices in Manchester
- An opportunity to work with global sporting partners
- Office breakout space with pool tables, dart board and TV’s
- A chance to build a career with a fast paced, high growth brand
- Generous staff discount
