Country Road Group (CRG) is embarking on transformation to position itself for growth, leveraging our scale, capabilities and culture as a House of Brands. We are investing in new and existing capabilities and have a number of exciting opportunities available.
The Head of Technical Design leads, manages, and develops a high-performing Technical Design team, ensuring that product concepts are accurately translated into comprehensive and timely digital tech packs. This role is crucial in bridging the gap between creative vision and production by driving excellence in technical design, fostering a collaborative environment, and optimising processes to deliver precise, high-quality outputs. The Head of Technical Design will set the strategic direction for the team, uphold quality standards, and work closely with cross-functional partners to bring innovative product designs to life efficiently and accurately.
This role is responsible for leading, inspiring and cultivating a high performing team that attracts and retains top talent.
Key Accountabilities
* Ensure all products meet 1) quality, functionality, construction and fit-for-purpose standards across all categories 2) regulatory and safety requirements, such as product labelling and packaging
* Ensuring that products are produced in accordance with technical specifications, such as material requirements, dimensions, and tolerances
* Manage the technical aspects of product creation, including reviewing prototypes, ensuring accurate fit, issuing grading guidelines, and solving technical construction challenges
* Ensure all fit comments and construction changes are accurately captured and loaded into the PLM system after each fitting session
* Identifying and resolving technical issues that arise during the product development process or after product launch
* Work with Designers as a technical partner, attending fittings, providing feedback, negotiating aesthetic adjustments while safeguarding design integrity, to ensure the design vision translates into the final product that is technically feasible (and safe where appropriate)
* Embrace uncertainty and change while facilitating and enabling strategic change with clarity, empathy and optimism
* Create & foster an inclusive environment where all team members can thrive and feel included, respected and safe. Set clear expectations of behaviour and hold self and others accountable.
Key Capabilities
* 7-10 years of experience in technical design within the fashion or apparel industry
* Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Technical Design, Product Development, or a related field is preferred
* Experience working closely with Designers to turn creative ideas into technically feasible products that meet design and commercial targets
* Skilled in briefing vendors and providing feedback on technical feasibility during fittings to maintain quality standards
* Proven ability to manage the full product development lifecycle, ensuring on-time delivery, cost-efficiency, and quality
* Highly collaborative with a proactive approach to cross-departmental teamwork.
Why work for CRG?
The Country Road Group is one of Australasia’s largest Lifestyle Brand Houses comprising of iconic brands such as Country Road, POLITIX, Trenery, Witchery and MIMCO. Here are some of the great things we offer:
* Generous employee discounts across our House of Brands
* Seasonal clothing allowance
* An additional day of leave for your birthday
* An Industry leading Parental Leave Program
* Flexible working arrangements to support work/life balance
* Annual learning calendar to support the ongoing development of our team
* Support community partnerships across our Corporate Social Responsibility Program
* We are committed to operating ethically, sustainably, and responsibly.
About Country Road
Since 1974, Country Road has built a legacy of effortless style and quality designs that are made to last. From its products to its partnerships and stores, the brand looks to drive positive change so you can feel proud of every Country Road purchase you take home.
Country Road Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.