Designer, Golf & Outerwear at Perry Ellis International

Position Overview:

The Designer of Golf & Outerwear is a pivotal role responsible for owning and driving the entire design, conceptualization, and execution process for the brand's golf outerwear collection. This is a specialized, senior-level position requiring a proven design portfolio, exceptional expertise in performance outerwear technology, and the ability to independently manage the full product lifecycle from trend research to final production approval. The Designer will be instrumental in setting the creative direction for the category, innovating on fabrications and technical performance, and ensuring the final product elevates the brand's position in the premium activewear market. This role requires deep technical mastery of outerwear construction and the ability to mentor junior staff.

Responsibilities:

• Lead Outerwear Design Strategy: Set the seasonal creative and technical design vision for all outerwear pieces (including jackets, vests, and layering components) within the men's golf line, ensuring alignment with the overall brand aesthetic and business goals.
• End-to-End Product Ownership: Independently manage the complete design cycle for outerwear, from initial concept sketches and mood boards through detailed technical pack creation, fit approvals, and production sign-off.
• Innovation & Technical Expertise: Pioneer and execute innovative designs, fabric development, and performance technologies specifically for golf outerwear. This includes expert knowledge of waterproofing, breathability, seam sealing, thermal insulation, and active stretch for both knit and woven constructions.
• Trend & Market Mastery: Conduct high-level, strategic trend forecasting, competitive analysis, and market research to identify opportunities for new silhouettes, features, and performance enhancements that keep the outerwear line at the forefront of the industry.
• Technical Design Execution: Create and present comprehensive, production-ready technical sketches using Adobe Illustrator (or equivalent CAD software). Oversee the 3D CAD process (if applicable) to expedite prototyping and design visualization.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Act as the primary design liaison with Sourcing, Product Development, and Technical Design teams to ensure the integrity of the design and technical specifications is maintained from proto to bulk production.
• Fabric & Trim Development: Direct the sourcing and development of specialized performance fabrics and trims. Negotiate and approve lab dips, strike-offs, and fabric/trim quality to meet stringent performance and aesthetic standards.
• Presentation & Communication: Confidently and persuasively present seasonal concepts, design details, and finalized collections to Senior Leadership, Merchandising, and Sales teams.
• Mentorship & Guidance: Provide technical guidance and feedback to Associate Designers or Assistant Designers, fostering a culture of high-quality design and execution.
• Documentation & PLM: Ensure all outerwear technical packages, specifications, bill of materials (BOMs), and critical information are accurately and proactively entered and maintained within the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system.
• Some domestic and international travel may be required for mill/factory visits and market research.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in fashion design or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a corporate apparel design environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in development, with a portfolio showcasing strong creative and innovative skills.
• Experience designing performance or sportswear and knowledge of technical fabrics is a must.
• Experience in Menswear.
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with 3D Browzwear or Netgraphic.
• Direct experience in the golf or performance sportswear industry.
• Knowledge of the latest fabric technologies, including moisture-wicking, stretch, and other performance enhancements.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive and self-motivated with a strong work ethic.
• An eager and fast learner who can quickly master new software and processes.
• A strong team player with excellent communication skills, able to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• A passion for the men's performance and golf industry.