Director, RTW Embroidery & Embellishments

About the role

The Design Director, RTW Embroidery & Embellishments will lead the creative direction and execution of embroidery and embellishment designs for our Ready-to-Wear (RTW) collections. They will work closely with our RTW designers and be responsible for creating new embroidery & embellishments for both the RTW wovens and knits categories, based on seasonal design direction.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the design vision for embroidery and embellishment across all RTW collections in alignment with the brand’s DNA and seasonal direction.
• Collaborate closely with the Creative Director and broader design team to conceptualize and develop cohesive, innovative collections.
• Create and oversee the design of intricate embroidery, beadwork, appliqué, and surface embellishment concepts.
• Source inspiration, develop mood boards, color palettes, and fabric/trim selections relevant to each season.
• Lead the sketching and sampling process in collaboration with in-house and external embroidery artisans.
• Ensure feasibility, quality, and production-readiness of all embellishment designs.
• Work with pattern makers, sample makers, and product development teams to ensure accuracy and maintain brand standards.
• Manage a small team of textile and embellishment designers, providing mentorship, feedback, and direction.
• Oversee timelines, workload distribution, and ensure deliverables are met on time and within budget.
• Work with embroidery studios, embellishment vendors, and global artisans to develop and execute high-quality samples.
• Travel as needed to oversee development, ensure quality control, and scout new techniques and resources.
• Stay ahead of emerging trends in embroidery and surface design.
• Attend trade shows, exhibitions, and fashion events to inspire innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Fashion Design, Textile Design, or related field.
• Minimum 12+ years of experience in high-end/luxury fashion design with a strong emphasis on embroidery and embellishments.
• Proven leadership experience, including managing design teams and cross-functional collaboration.
• Exceptional hand-sketching and/or digital design skills (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Strong knowledge of embroidery techniques, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Global artisan network and experience working with ateliers is a strong plus.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and communication skills.
• Digital portfolio of work is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Fashion Design, Textile Design, or related field.
• Minimum 12+ years of experience in high-end/luxury fashion design with a strong emphasis on embroidery and embellishments.
• Proven leadership experience, including managing design teams and cross-functional collaboration.
• Exceptional hand-sketching and/or digital design skills (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Strong knowledge of embroidery techniques, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Global artisan network and experience working with ateliers is a strong plus.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and communication skills.
• Digital portfolio of work is required.

Skills

• Deep understanding of fashion trends, materials, and textile surface techniques.
• Refined aesthetic reflective of the Tory Burch brand.
• Conceptualizing and developing innovative embroidery and embellishment designs.
• Leadership experience, including managing design teams and cross-functional collaboration.
• Exceptional hand-sketching and/or digital design skills (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Strong knowledge of embroidery techniques, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Global artisan network and experience working with ateliers.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and communication skills.

Benefits

We offer a generous set of benefits to help you take care of your health, create financial security, and achieve wellness in all areas of your life. Highlights include:

• Generous employee discount and access to exclusive sample sales.
• Free executive coaching on-demand.
• Opportunities to give back through the Tory Burch Foundation and paid volunteer days.

Pay

The compensation range for this position is 180,000.00 USD - 230,000.00 USD. Our offer will be based on your relevant experience and work location.

Schedule

Our work environment encourages dreaming, exploring, discovering, and laughing together. We value hard work, impact, and fun.