JOB TITLE: MENSWEAR DESIGNER
LOCATION: MKI HQ (BINGLEY, WEST YORKSHIRE)
JOB TYPE: ONSITE, MONDAY-FRIDAY
DEPARTMENT: DESIGN
START DATE: IMMEDIATE
ABOUT THE ROLE
As a designer, you will become a key member of the MKI product team, working directly with the CEO and alongside the wider design department to create and develop our menswear collections.
This is a hands-on role, responsible for designing and developing products across mainline apparel, jersey and accessories. You will work across multiple collections simultaneously, supporting both seasonal and non-seasonal projects at different stages of the product lifecycle. From initial research and concept through to sampling, fittings and production, you will play a key role in bringing product to market while working closely with suppliers, manufacturers and internal teams to deliver commercially successful collections.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Research seasonal trends, fabrics, colours and market developments (including attending fashion weeks, trade shows, fabric fairs where required)
- Design and develop seasonal and non-seasonal collections across apparel, jersey and accessories.
- Produce high-quality cads, technical drawings and product visuals using Adobe illustrator and photoshop.
- Create detailed tech packs and development documentation for suppliers and factories.
- Manage product development from concept through sampling, fitting, approvals and production.
- Lead sample fittings, providing clear feedback and development direction to suppliers.
- Own and manage product critical paths to ensure key deadlines are achieved.
- Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers throughout the development process.
- Support the creation of wholesale sales tools, product presentations and marketing assets.
- Analyse product performance and identify opportunities to improve future collections.
- Support the development of special projects and brand collaborations.
ABOUT YOU
We're looking for an experienced designer with a strong product eye and a genuine understanding and knowledge of the contemporary menswear market.
The ideal candidate will have:
- A minimum of 4 years' experience designing menswear.
- Experience designing across mainline apparel, jersey and accessories is desirable.
- Experience in leading fit sessions and sample review sessions.
- Strong cad skills and the ability to produce clear technical drawings and comprehensive tech packs for production.
- Excellent Adobe creative suite skills, particularly illustrator and photoshop.
- A strong understanding of garment construction, fabrics and product development.
- Excellent commercial awareness with the ability to balance creativity and commerciality.
- Confidence presenting ideas and collections to senior stakeholders.
- Experience working directly with factories and suppliers.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple collections and deadlines simultaneously.
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach
WHY JOIN MKI?
This is an opportunity to become part of a fast-growing global menswear brand where you will have genuine influence over product direction.
You'll be joining a passionate, ambitious team with the freedom to contribute ideas and help shape the next stage of MKIs growth.
KEY INFORMATION
- Salary discussed, based on experience.
- Full-time, permanent position.
- Based at our headquarters in Bingley, West Yorkshire.
- Monday to Friday (this role is fully office-based and is not suitable for remote or freelance applicants).
- Immediate start available.
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Leeds, West Yorkshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Must be proficient in Adobe Illustrator Photoshop
- Must be able to create CADS and detailed tech packs
Experience:
- designing : 4 years (required)
Work Location: In person
