Ape The Label - Fashion Designer

The Fashion Designer at Ape the Label is a multifaceted role responsible for leading the creative design process while managing the operational aspects of the business. This position involves researching trends, creating design concepts, selecting fabrics and embellishments and overseeing the design production process end to end. The role is responsible for conceptualising and designing seasonal collections, overseeing quality control, managing inventory, vendor relationships, and ensuring efficient supply chain operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong design background, meticulous attention to detail, exceptional organisational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

If you are someone who works well under pressure, is fast paced and can adapt well under circumstances! This is the role for you!

Designer Responsibilities: 

Conceptualisation and Design:

• Lead the creative process from concept to execution, developing designs for seasonal launches.
• Design and support ad hoc pieces on average once a month which could happen at anytime. 
• Conduct market research to identify new trends, fabrics and seek inspiration that aligns with the Ape the Label brand. 
• Ensure all designs meet quality standards and align with the brand's aesthetic. 
• Foster design collaborations with hairdressing educators to incorporate their insights into collections.

Material Selection and Sourcing:

• Identify, source, and develop fabrics, trims, and branded embellishments for current and future collections.
• Ensure all materials are bleach-proof, durable, and of high quality. 

Bleach Product Testing:

• Oversee comprehensive bleach testing on all garments to ensure resilience and colourfastness.
• Collaborate with manufacturers to address testing results and maintain product quality.

Quality Control:

• Implement stringent quality control standards and conduct regular fittings to ensure product excellence.
• Collaborate with the production team to address any issues related to fit, construction, or quality.

Packaging and Branding Design:

• Lead the design of packaging materials, including boxes, bags, swing tags, and labels.
• Ensure packaging enhances brand identity and contributes to a premium customer experience.

Trend Analysis and Innovation:

• Research global fashion trends and infuse creativity and innovation into collections.
• Act as a trendsetter while aligning with the brand's core identity.

Product Ordering 

• Strategically plan and execute product ordering
• 3 weeks liaise with manufacturers including sample and quality signoff

Order Placement

• Propose minimum order quantity and anticipated stock holding levels
• Managing inbound stock quality

Vendor Relationship Management:

• Source and establish relationships with suppliers and manufacturers.
• Track orders to ensure timely production and delivery and report weekly
• Collaborate with logistics partners to streamline shipping processes.

Catalogue Design and Pricing Updates:

• Oversee the design and updating of wholesale catalogues.
• Collaborate with teams to update prices based on market trends.

This position requires a dynamic individual with a strong design background, operational expertise, and excellent communication skills. The Fashion Designer will design and create bleach-proof clothing, aprons and accessories for Ape the Label. They must possess an artistic skill to develop unique and trend focused designs that align with the brand identity. They will play a crucial role in driving the success of Ape the Label across various facets of the business.