Design Manager

Position is in office four days a week in Monmouth County, NJ. Relocation an option. We are growing soft home goods (think comforters, sheets, pillows, towels, etc.) seeking a Design Manager who will be a creative visionary to elevate the company’s brand image and take storytelling to the next level! This is an excellent opportunity for a savvy and seasoned creative leader to make a true impact within the company. About the Role This position will oversee and lead art direction & product design and work closely with the CEO. You will play a pivotal role in overseeing the development and execution of effective on brand and strategically creative endeavors. You have strong experience working with cross-functional teams across Product Development, Production, & Sales, for all retail and brand-based projects. Responsibilities Develop and implement the design strategy, aligning with the overall brand vision and business goals. Oversee the entire design process, from concept to final product, ensuring all designs are innovative, trend-right, and on-brand. Hold ownership over the look-and-feel, tone and manner of creative projects, continually striving to elevate the brand while ensuring thoughtful and consistent execution across all points of brand contact. Motivate, inspire, and lead a robust team of creatives. Serve as a hands-on leader that drives quality and fosters a culture of innovation and pushing boundaries to create elevated and on brand assets. Develop visual standards/codes (including art direction, tone and manner, graphics, and presentation formats. Conduct extensive research on fashion trends, market competition, and consumer insights to inform design direction. Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, merchandising, production, and sales, to ensure cohesive product execution. Ensure the development of high-quality prototypes and samples that meet design specifications and brand standards. Concentrated focus on retailers such as Ross, Home Goods, TJX, Macy’s, JCP, Costco, etc. Continuously seek out new design techniques, materials, and technologies to keep our line at the forefront of the industry. Qualifications Minimum of 10 years of experience in soft home goods designs. Required Skills Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external partners. Experience working with elevated licensed and national brands. Experience preparing presentations for Ross, Home Goods, TJX, Macy’s, JCP, Costco, etc. Experience in developing fabric / embroidery designs with overseas suppliers in China and India. Knowledge of the dying/printing process for textiles with a strong creative eye. Proven experience managing a team of designers and coordinating print processes on both a creative and production level. Previous overseas travel to China/India mills a plus. Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Previous overseas travel to China/India mills a plus. #J-18808-Ljbffr