Design Development ManagerTextiles

The Design & Development Manager, Textiles will lead the innovation, design, development, and sourcing of the Textiles category for CB2. This role will focus on developing unique product concepts and executing them in alignment with brand strategies, ensuring quality, profitability, and design excellence. The role will work closely with cross-functional teams to bring innovative textile designs to life and contribute to business growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Textile Design & Development: Collaborate with the Director of Design & Development to create innovative textile products that align with CB2’s design vision. Oversee the lifecycle of textile design development, from concept to final execution.
• Product Sourcing & Vendor Management: Lead vendor strategies and ensure materials, designs, and production align with cost targets. Negotiate favorable pricing and manage vendor performance, including innovation, cost, and quality.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration: Lead and mentor a team of associates, fostering talent and ensuring effective collaboration within the design and development team. Manage, plan, and direct work while providing performance evaluations.
• Presentation & Review: Prepare design and product presentations for textile categories in partnership with merchandising teams, and lead product reviews.
• International Travel: Travel internationally to seek design inspiration, review product development, and explore new sourcing opportunities with vendor partners.
• Vendor Performance & Analysis: Track vendor capabilities, analyze performance, and collaborate with planning teams to align projections and forecasts.

What You’ll Bring to the Table:

• Passion for Textile Design: A strong understanding of textile design, trends, and quality, along with the ability to create innovative and functional products.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Proven ability to lead and collaborate with executives, vendors, and partners, influencing decisions and driving business strategies.
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of textile design, raw materials, production processes, and business strategies.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align business and design objectives to create strategic, creative plans that drive results.
• Decision-Making: Experience in making operational decisions that impact team effectiveness and product outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Experience:
  • Minimum 5 years as a Textile Designer or Merchant, with at least 2 years of experience in sourcing, product development, or design in the home or fashion industry.
  • Experience managing a team, with strong communication and leadership skills.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Excel, Google Sheets, and a deep understanding of textile design and product development processes.
• Portfolio: Must provide a link to your portfolio (including password or PDF samples) on your resume.

What We Offer:

• Creative and Collaborative Environment: A dynamic, team-oriented workplace where you can contribute to exciting design projects.
• Growth Opportunities: An environment that fosters innovation, professional development, and career growth.
• Hybrid Work: Flexibility with 4 days a week in the Chicago office and remote work options.