To apply, please send cover letter and CV to charmaine.chan@knatchbull.com
Role Overview
As a Senior Tech Designer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the highest quality, fit, and finish across all product ranges. From initial proto samples to gold seal approvals and production control, you will oversee the technical execution of designs while aligning with the brand’s luxury standards. You will work closely with pattern cutters, factories, and the in-house production team to achieve consistent fits, exceptional craftsmanship, and compliance with legal standards. Factory visits and retail support will also be key aspects of the role, ensuring quality control and issue resolution.
Key Responsibilities
Translating Design into Samples and Production
- Collaborate with the Design team to interpret design sketches and create the technical packages necessary for developing samples and bulk production.
- Develop and refine patterns in collaboration with pattern cutters, leveraging software like CLO 3D, Lectra, and Gerber.
- Establish key measurements, construction methods, and methods of make to create the first sample.
- Review samples prior to fittings to ensure all key details and measurements are met.
- Attend all Ready-to-Wear (RTW) fittings with the Design Lead; provide technical and fit input, while ensuring design intent is upheld.
- Lead fit and technical communication with factories, including providing comprehensive fit notes and feedback.
- Set grade rules and tolerances for bulk production, ensuring alignment with luxury standards.
- Attend all Made-To-Measure (MTM) development meetings and fittings, provide technical and fit input, to redevelop suiting blocks for an improved fit, with emphasis on size chart alignment, grading alignment and tolerance implementation.
Technical Proficiency and On-Site Skills
- Where possible, lead the creation of digital prototypes and virtual samples for client approvals and production optimization.
- Use CAD systems for precise pattern adjustments, grading, and technical accuracy.
- Apply advanced technical knowledge across womenswear categories, including tailoring, unstructured wovens, dresses, and knitwear.
Factory Collaboration and Quality Supervision
- Work closely with both local and international factories, ensuring alignment with technical specifications and production timelines.
- Conduct on-site quality control checks to uphold luxury standards in fit, finish, and fabric performance.
- Provide technical guidance and support to factory teams, troubleshooting issues in construction, sizing, or material handling.
- Conduct regular visits to factories to assist, monitor, and resolve production issues
Production Management
- Collaborate with supply chain and production teams to ensure deadlines and budget constraints are met without compromising quality.
- Develop and maintain detailed tech packs, including specifications, construction methods, and quality standards.
- Ensure seamless communication between design, production, and factory teams for an efficient workflow from concept to final delivery.
Fit Process Management
- Manage the fit of garments from first proto through gold seal and production control.
- Run fit meetings and provide clear, concise fit comments to all fabricators.
- Measure samples, create, amend, and update fully graded specs, providing technical drawings or diagrams where necessary.
- Align fit across categories using fit models to create a more balanced fit.
Sample and Production Control
- Check gold seal samples to ensure they meet production standards and provide fabricators with all necessary information.
- Ensure technical compliance and exceptional product quality for garments intended to last for years.
Returns and Issue Resolution
- Act as the main contact for all garment returns or rejected pieces from retail.
- Ensure follow-up action is taken and keep relevant teams informed of resolutions.
Training and Support
- Conduct training sessions for store staff and tailors, focusing on block fit, garment construction, and components for both Ready-to-Wear (RTW) and Made-to-Measure (MTM) lines.
- Create and maintain comprehensive guidelines for departments, including measurement protocols, labelling standards, and alteration procedures.
Ad Hoc as Necessary
- Take on other responsibilities or projects as required to support the production team and ensure the success of operations.
- Perform any additional tasks as required by your line manager.
Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fashion Design, Pattern Making, or a related field.
Experience:
- 7+ years in luxury fashion, with a strong background in tailoring, pattern making, and technical design.
- Proven ability to manage garment production in factory settings, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Expertise in resolving production issues and managing quality control for high-end apparel.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in CLO 3D, Lectra, Gerber, or similar 3D design tools.
- Advanced CAD skills for pattern drafting, grading, and adjustments.
- Deep knowledge of garment construction, luxury tailoring techniques, and fabric performance.
- Thorough understanding of grading, with the ability to check and approve graded patterns.
Soft Skills:
- Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams effectively.
- Exceptional problem-solving skills and an eye for detail.
- Highly adaptable and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Self-motivated
