Freelance, Technical Design Lead

Who We Are Kontoor Brands is a portfolio of three of the world’s most iconic lifestyle, outdoor and workwear brands: Wrangler®, Lee® and Helly Hansen®. Kontoor Brands is a purpose‑led organization focused on leveraging its global platform, strategic sourcing model and best‑in‑class supply chain to drive brand growth and deliver long‑term value for its stakeholders. Technical Design Lead (Team Lead) Responsible for our Kontoor Brands’ complete technical development of pattern‑making and technical specifications from the onset of each seasonal development to finalization of sampling development. This role focuses on a specific brand’s business unit’s product lines and supervises on‑time adherence of functional task timelines in accordance with brands’ strategic Go‑to‑Market milestones and critical dates. Technical packages are built to meet or exceed pre‑determined gross margin and price targets. Key Responsibilities Manage the activities of assigned Technical Design team members to provide technical expertise on product development in the areas of pre‑production pattern development, technical construction specification and materials finalization to ensure all pre‑production specifications are completed accurately and within specified timelines. Work closely in tandem with Product Development team to ensure a complete, on‑time pass‑off to Production Technical Design team to enable next stage of production‑ready packages to field manufacturing, overseas offices and vendor suppliers. Manage and communicate Design/Merchandising product changes to Production Technical Design and/or Manufacturing in a timely manner to ensure accurate execution in bulk production. Manage up‑to‑date information and workflow in current tools and related systems. Assist with establishing new fit blocks and maintain core fit library, 3D pattern design asset management and technical construction manuals. Assist to create standard operating procedures related to materials management (Bills of Materials), labelling & packaging manuals and folding guides. Serve as a problem‑solving technical expert resource in product development to proactively resolve pattern, construction, quality, finishing, findings and systems issues in pre‑production stage. Actively pursue efficiency in system management and identify/deploy best practices within own unit and cross‑functionally. Adopt new skills to implement new technology and optimal processes. Responsible for the training and development of all team members. Assist Manager with appraisals of team members to achieve department goals. Skills for Success Leadership ability to motivate result‑driven, high‑performing teams. Analytical thinker with attention to details and loves problem‑solving. Solid organization skills to prioritize, multitask and deliver to deadlines and drive optimal results. High proficiency in systems – Illustrator, MS Office applications (SharePoint, Teams, Excel etc.), preferably Gerber Accumark 2D Pattern Software and Browzwear Vstitcher 3D Pattern Software, and PLM experience with implementation experience being a plus. Excellent communication and networking skills. Experience / Education Extensive apparel manufacturing experience with extensive knowledge in pattern, technical product development processes and systems development or related manufacturing, sourcing, or operations areas. In‑depth technical knowledge in E2E product manufacturing processes. Preferred experience in Women’s Denim and knowledge of multiple product categories a plus (i.e. Bottoms, Tops, Outerwear, Sweaters, Wovens, Knits). Ability to manage teams. Project Management skills a plus. Bachelor’s Degree or higher preferred. Benefits Kontoor Brands offers a comprehensive benefit package including resources to support physical, emotional, social and financial wellbeing, four weeks of paid parental leave for eligible employees who are new parents, flexible Fridays and tuition reimbursement. Discounts on apparel are also provided. Equal Employment Opportunity Kontoor Brands is an equal employment opportunity / affirmative action employer of minorities, females, protected veterans and the disabled. Kontoor Brands is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and treating Kontoor Brands associates and applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, HIV/AIDS status or any other legally protected factor. #J-18808-Ljbffr Kontoor Brands, Inc.