Lead Designer/ Fashion Concept Manager

Who we are:

At Reitmans (Canada) Limited (RCL), every moment of every day revolves around our customers and our love of fashion. We believe fashion empowers our customers to put their best foot forward when it matters the most. From the design table to the stores and our digital channels, we are always finding new ways to create memorable customer experiences, backed by a strong brand portfolio and powered by the most passionate people in the industry.

Our Fashion Design  and Product development teams for our Penn. Penningtons Brand are on a mission to redefine plus-size fashion by creating beautiful, trend-forward products, with exceptional fit that meet and exceed customer expectations.

We are seeking a talented and visionary Lead Designer/ Fashion Concept Manager to join our Penn. Penningtons team and help us shape the future of plus size fashion. In this role, you will work closely with the Design Director to craft compelling concept stories and collaborate with both the fabric and fashion design teams to ensure a seamless workflow.

As the fashion concept leader, you'll inspire and guide a collaborative team, ensuring a smooth process from concept to final product. Strong organizational skills, a deep understanding of fashion trends, and the ability to lead and inspire a team are essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

From Concept:

• Lead the research and development of trend forecasts (apparel and accessories), micro-trends, and fabrics.
• Assist in building Concept Previews before travel, including presentations and printed documents.
• Support in the creation of pre-concepts and final concept presentations after travel.
• Help build key outfits, completing them with accessories for cohesive styling.
• Participate in kick-off meetings by assisting in the creation of the kick-off document and preparing presentations with samples.

Trend & In-Season:

• Drive innovation by bringing new ideas and information about upcoming trends or capsules to chase.
• Collaborate with the coordinator and stylist to inject emerging trends into current photoshoots, incorporating accessories and new designs.

Product Development (Fabric Support):

• Work closely with the fabric department to plan and secure key fabrics that align with the concept.
• Coordinate fabric pre-alignment and meetings with the design team and merchandising team to ensure cohesion and flow.

Qualifications and Competencies

• University degree (or College diploma) in Fashion Design
• 8+ years of related experience in fashion concept management and fashion design
• Ability to foster and build relationships and influence others
• Excellent fashion sense and a knack for originality and creativity
• Excellent communication and analytical skills
• Ability to travel to the US (New York) twice a year

Join Penn. And be part of a brave new era of plus size fashion!

What we offer (Why work with us):

• Hybrid work
• A competitive benefits package (Full Time Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off Sick Time, Flex Days & Vacation (Full Time Employees Only)
• Additional benefits include opportunities for advancement and tuition reimbursement
• 50% discount at all Reitmans (Canada) Limited brands (Penningtons, Reitmans & RW&CO.)
• Generous Employee Referral Policy 

If this inspires you…let’s talk. Send us your resume today! 

By the way, did you know that Reitmans (Canada) Limited has several hundreds of stores all across Canada and three fashion apparel banners? Get ready to join the Canadian fashion retail icon, with a great success story where you can have a voice and make a real difference. 

There are many ways to wear a career at RCL! #ReadytoRCL 

Reitmans (Canada) Limited is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace for all. We recognize that our future success depends on the perspectives and contributions of all our employees -- their diverse backgrounds, abilities and experiences make our business stronger. If you are contacted for a job opportunity, please advise us of any accommodations needed to ensure fair and equitable access throughout the recruitment and selection process. All accommodation information provided will be treated as confidential and used only for providing an accessible candidate experience. 

We thank all applicants. Only selected candidates will be contacted.

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