Design Director - Sportswear - Career Group : Job Details

This opportunity is with a client of Career Group, a Women-Owned recruiting agency recognized nationwide for excellence in corporate and administrative staffing. We connect talented professionals with top companies and act as trusted career advisors every step of the way.

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This opportunity is through Career Group Events, a Women-Owned staffing firm trusted by leading brands to support their high-profile events. From festivals and trade shows to brand activations, we connect dynamic talent with unforgettable experiences.

This is an internal opportunity within Career Group Companies, a premier, Women-Owned recruitment and advisory firm recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Recruiting Firms. With over 40 years of experience, we are known for our high-touch, personalized approach and our commitment to excellence.

Our client, a fast growing Apparel Company, is looking for a Sportswear Design Director to join their team in NYC!

Responsibilities

• Lead the design direction for Sportswear and Athleisure collections, aligning with brand identity and market trends
• Develop seasonal concepts, color palettes, key items, and fabric/trim strategies
• Oversee trend research, competitive analysis, and market insights to drive innovation
• Manage and mentor the design team, providing creative guidance and performance feedback
• Ensure timely execution of the design calendar and deliverables across all categories
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners in merchandising, technical design, product development, and production
• Approve initial designs, fabrications, sketches, and final samples to ensure consistency and quality
• Participate in fittings and ensure garments meet design intent and fit standards

Requirements

• 8+ years of design experience in Sportswear, Athleisure, or a related apparel category
• Strong knowledge of the Missy customer and market preferences
• Excellent understanding of garment construction, fabrics, and technical design processes
• Advanced trend forecasting and color sensibility
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and PLM systems
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative and solution-oriented mindset
• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or a related field preferred

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