designer Warrington, North West England, England
Job description
Who We Are:
Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today. At New Balance, We Got Now.
JOB MISSION:
As the Designer I, Lifestyle Footwear you will be responsible for designing seasonal footwear collections for “Made In UK” focusing specifically on colour, materials and trend. You will partner closely with design leads, product managers and factory team to create long term vision for our domestically made line. You will provide in-depth insight into different colour, material and trend options available to ensure the “Made In UK” product line continues to be successful.
We offer hybrid working and a flexibility to working hours to accommodate for a healthy work life balance. Ideal candidates will be based in the North-West of England as this role requires a minimum of 2 days on site at our EMEA Head office in Warrington as well as bi-monthly travel to our factory in Flimby.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
- Work with domestic manufacturing, costing, and development team as part of the product creation and commercialisation process
- Produce strong impactful concepts (season after season), that meet the category and overall brand creative direction
- Responsible for seasonal colour forecasting and material exploration with vendors unique to our European location
- Provide creative insight towards available sustainable materials
- Exhibit solid design skill, acute attention to detail and ability to meet key project deadlines
- Support and collaborate with Global Team as European voice for runway/ fashion/ commercial trends
- Carry a large, complex workload across multiple seasons continuously
- Actively participate in Creative Vision during design events
- Self-start who’s able to proirtise and manage a variety of work successfully
- Genuine drive and passion for the product
- Travel to industry shows and suppliers when required
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
- Relevant degree – footwear, fashion, trend
- Proficient with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop
- Previous footwear design experience
- Excellent understanding of shoe construction and process
- Passion for product-creative thinker and storyteller
- Able to effectively solve problems in a cross functional environment
- Specialist in colour and trend with a sophisticated vision for product
- Keen interest in materials (ideally experience at luxury or technical level)
- Deep understanding of consumer and target market
- Strong communication, planning and organisation skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills- manage relationships both internally and externally sucessfully
- Full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle
BENEFITS:
- Discretionary Bonus Opportunity
- Private Medical Insurance
- Dental Scheme
- Pension Scheme
- Flexible Working Hours (7am-10am start, 3pm-6pm finish)
- Hybrid working (2-3 days on-site)
- 25 days Annual Leave per year, increasing with service
- Life Insurance
- On Site Gym
- Employee Discount
Equal Opportunity Employer:
New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment. We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion.
If you have not already done so, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.
