Direct and oversee pattern and specification direction for our brands collection. Lead a talented team of fit technicians, technical designers, and fit assistants and drive specifications for each department in our brands. Use exceptional pattern skills and industry knowledge to drive a strong fit foundation for our private label brand. Demonstrate the company's core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion and safety. Minimum
- Bachelor's Degree apparel design, pattern-making, product development or relevant experience
- Any experience leading fit sessions and the ability to communicate ideas and answer questions appropriately
- 3+ years of strong and effective leadership skills and management experience
- Ability to collaborate and work cooperatively in a team-based environment
- Strong understanding of industry/technical terms and processes
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
- In-depth knowledge of textiles, construction and patternmaking, grading and sizing
- Proficient in Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, InDesign
- Demonstrated ability to coach and train
- Strong attention to detail
- Excellent oral/written communication skills Desired
- 4+ years of technical design, construction, pattern-making and/or design experience
- Proficient computer skills and experience using specification package and sketching programs- Complete specifications and construction details in technical packages that adhere to Kroger s testing, construction, and quality standards and uphold integrity of our brand
- Develop, mentor, guide, and oversee Fit team, including senior fit technicians, technical designers, and fit assistants
- Create and manage goals for the Apparel Fit department for private label brands
- Develop comprehensive graded specifications for garment costing and construction on assigned category and oversee Fit team in specification builds to maintain brand integrity
- Correct prototype and fit sample patterns, provide fit comments, and approve construction specifications on a category while also overseeing team in their abilities to complete these tasks
- Develop interdepartmental process and training materials for Fit team
- Cultivate block patterns with senior fit engineers for each category
- Research trends, conduct fit comparisons quarterly and share with Product Development divisional merchandise manager/coordinator and creative manager
- Lead and coach team through fit sessions using both live models and body forms to asses fit, proportion, workmanship, construction, and overall styling of garments
- Oversee and approve samples and supply final grading with results sent to vendors
- Attend and provide updates in weekly production meetings
- Juggle multiple projects simultaneously while developing strong relationships with Merchandising teams
- Manage the project deliverables for Fit team to adhere to the predetermined product development calendar
- Oversee profitability, deliverables, timelines, and budgets within the fit team
- Supervise and coach direct reports in the performance of their duties; complete performance reviews and provide feedback to direct reports
- Must be able to perform the essential job functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation
