Designer/Line Builder

The Designer/Line Builder will conceptualize and illustrate new products for the licensed and takedown brands.  This person will work closely with the adult brands’ creative teams and the licensed brands’ Product Management groups to translate the adult styling and trends into both adult-interpreted and original kid/tween footwear designs.  He/she will shop the market regularly to provide key insights and trend direction to the Product Management and Design teams.  RESPONSIBILITIES· Research and translate fashion trends to kid’s footwear accordingly.· Communicate with sourcing countries on an on-going basis to advise of new development, product changes, and additional needs.· Research, develop and specify materials, details, and/or colors proposed for new product development.  Work closely with adult brands to incorporate appropriate prints/materials and silhouettes into the children’s/tween lines.· Communicate major footwear fashion trends and how they relate to the children’s footwear market.· Build strong business relationships with Product Management, sales and retail buying to assist in merchandising the correct product mix for individual brand and customer needs.· Design quick-to-market SMU designs for retail and key accounts, in partnership with Product Management and Sales.· Enthusiastically participate in product development brainstorming sessions. · Develop and create illustrations of new design concepts for internal design reviews, and approval by licensors, in accordance with the divisional product development process.· Participate in field research with Sales and Marketing to identify and understand customers’ expectations.· Shop the market constantly to stay in tune with emerging fashion trends and research the competitive landscape.  Interpret learnings from what is observed in innovative ways.· Partner with product developers and Sourcing to ensure that design specifications are accurate and able to be produced within the target costing requirements. REQUIREMENTSMust have Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent design education with 4 years experience in the footwear market.  Position requires a passionate interest in fashion and trends, pattern and last development experience, knowledge of various footwear constructions, strong concept drawings, familiarity with material sourcing process, as well as the ability to work effectively in a team environment.  The Designer/Line Builder needs to have strong and confident presentation skills, and the ability to create cohesive product lines while maintaining clear distinction between brands.  A strong team player, this individual actively seeks feedback and constructive criticism of concepts and designs, while demonstrating an interpersonal and creative energy level that fosters individual and team achievements in product design.   Ability to travel to Asia, Europe and Domestic Markets, and meetings with Licensors. Adobe Illustrator skills recommended. Company: The Stride Rite Corporation Location: 02420 Status: Full Time, Employee Job Category: Creative/Design Career Level: Experienced (Non-Manager)