Job Description

Our Retail client based in Dubai, is currently recruiting for a Kidswear Design Manager. If you are looking to make a move to the UAE then this opportunity is for YOU! The successful incumbent will be responsible for developing and executing innovative and commercially viable designs, analyzing changes in market demand for the product group and developing new product lines in the area of private label development and specifying product design parameters and standards.
Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise the design-to-development lifecycle, from concept sketches and CADs to technical packs and sample approvals.
• Liaise with sourcing, vendors, and mills to ensure material, trim, and embellishment choices meet cost and quality benchmarks.
• Ensure all design and development activities are executed within budget, without compromising brand aesthetics or fit.
• Develop product and packaging material sourcing plans focused on cost optimization and efficiency.
• Guide the team in researching global fashion trends, kidswear-specific innovations, and customer preferences across kidswear markets.
• Analyze consumer behavior, competitive landscape, and global market intelligence to inform collection direction.
• Attend relevant trade shows, digital trend portals, and market visits to gather insights on new materials, techniques, and inspirations.
• Partner with Buying, Merchandising, Planning, Sourcing, and Technical teams to ensure cohesive seasonal ranges, on-time delivery, and commercial success.
• Present seasonal design direction and collection line-ups to leadership, business heads, and commercial teams.
• Support Marketing and Visual Merchandising with product storytelling and launch inputs.
• Lead and mentor a multi-category design team, overseeing work planning, delegation, quality control, and creative alignment.
• Set clear KPAs and development goals for direct reports, drive high performance through feedback, coaching, and regular reviews.
• Build a positive, motivated studio culture that encourages creativity, ownership, and innovation.
• Monitor team welfare and resolve escalations with empathy and leadership maturity.
• Own the design strategy for childrens wear (014 yrs), aligning seasonal direction with business goals and customer insights.
• Define the product architecture and creative vision across all categories, ensuring clarity in silhouettes, color stories, fabrics, and trims.
• Oversee brand consistency and ensure alignment with the groups aesthetic, brand values, and customer expectations.
• Provide recommendations on seasonal edits, line structure, and innovation opportunities in styles, fits, and finishes.

Personal Attributes and Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design, or related field.
• 810 years of experience in kidswear/apparel design, with at least 3 years in a managerial role overseeing multiple categories.
• Strong technical knowledge in garment construction, childrens sizing, trims, fits, and materials.
• Commercial understanding of private label retail, cost structures, and seasonal calendars.
• Hands-on experience with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, PLM systems, and CAD tools.
• Proven leadership ability to manage teams, multiple deadlines, and cross-functional partnerships.