Sr. Designer, Dresses - NYC

Job DescriptionGeneral SummaryThe Sr. Dress Designer is responsible for leading design in assigned categories, translating creative direction into innovative, trend-right, and commercially viable products through in-depth market research, concept development, and advanced sketching. This position supports the Wholesale Apparel business. The responsibilities described below are considered essential functions of the role. This position is based in our NYC office and requires working on-site.Key ResponsibilitiesWork closely with VP of Design and Associate Design Director to bring the collection from concept to reality, including but not limited to conceptual presentations, sketch review, design research, fabric & trim development, spec and fit processesContribute to seasonal concept research as well as competitive market research. Needs to be on the pulse for identifying trends and key items for a quick turnaroundSketch into design concepts synthesizing design direction, price parameters, and feedback from Design Director and SalesDrive and oversee your own groups independently, ensuring details are communicated clearly and effectively to cross-functional partners and all deadlines are metDevelop strong partnerships with cross-functional team members in Design, Production, Tech Design, and Print. Communication is key!Work independently with technical design team to ensure proper fit and proportions are met and follow-up with oversea factories on trim approvalsClearly communicate silhouettes and detailed garment construction through sketches, garment drapes, and reference material, with feedback and updates as neededParticipate in all development and production fittings. Confident in leading fittings when neededCreate and update all TP’s from development through to productionHelp with seasonal line sheet creationFollow-through and problem-solving development issues by styleMaintain and communicate up-to-date development details, including sketches, style and pattern information, fabric information, colorways, and development notesPro-actively coordinate with team members from Design, Product Development, and Fabric departments to make sure all information is current and correct through development, SMS, and production handover stagesExcellent follow-up on development styles and any special projects requestedManage calendar and time in order to meet all milestone deadlinesAble to manage multiple projects and deadlines with support and resources as neededPerform other duties and special projects as assignedSpecific Job Skills: Essential duties include Knowledge identifying trends and key items for a quick turnaroundSketch into design concepts synthesizing design direction, price parameters, and feedback from Design Director and SalesParticipate in all development and production fittingsConfident in leading fittings when neededFollow-through and problem-solving of development issues by styleMaintain and communicate up-to-date development details, including sketches, style and pattern information, fabric information, colorways, and development notesPro-actively coordinate with team members from Design, Product Development, and Fabric departments to make sure all information is current and correct through development, SMS, and production handover stagesCreate and update all TP’s from development through to productionManage calendar and time in order to meet all milestone deadlinesRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Fashion or equivalent experience Minimum of 4-year design school and 7+ years working experience in fashion industry focusing on dresses requiredProficiency in fashion illustration/CAD work on Illustrator, Photoshop and Microsoft Office Suite is requiredPML knowledge is a plusThe position requires an excellent taste level, strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, adaptability to a fast-paced environment, and the flexibility to work autonomously and in collaboration with members of the design, tech design, production team, fabric and product development teams.The ideal candidate is highly creative and hardworking, knowledgeable of fabrics, trims, garment sewing, and construction.Candidates should be able to conduct their own fittings independently and be fluent in construction when discussing with pattern makers.Must possess a brand appropriate design aestheticDepth knowledge in dress construction and design (daytime and occasion dresses)Excellent communication and presentation skills as well as organizational skills and time managementKnowledge of denim and prom dresses is a plus The expected base salary for this position ranges from $110,000-$120,000. Ranges are based on various factors such as relevant skillset, training, years of experience related to the current job description, education, and our organizational structure. In addition to the base salary, Steve Madden offers a competitive benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 401K, paid holidays, a generous paid time-off policy, and career opportunities within a dynamic team.Job DetailsJob Type: Full-timeSalaried: Salaried