Ralph Lauren Senior Designer, Sweaters

Company Description Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren's reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands and international markets. The Company's brand names, which include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others, constitute one of the world's most widely recognized families of consumer brands. At Ralph Lauren, we unite and inspire the communities within our company as well as those in which we serve by amplifying voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging, ensuring inclusion, and fairness for all. We foster a culture of inclusion through: Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups and Celebration. Position Overview The Sr. Designer, Sweaters is a senior concept creator and design thought partner for the Sweaters business, leading the development of original seasonal sweater ideas from early inspiration through line completion. The Sr. Designer will translate research, archive, market intelligence, material innovation, and creative direction into compelling concepts, inspirational prototypes, and commercially relevant high quality product ideas, while guiding junior designers and partnering closely with cross functional teams through development and production. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Partner with Creative Directors and the Design Leads to define big ideas and translate the brand point of view into elevated sweater concepts, inspirational prototypes, and line-building design proposals. Drive original research across art, culture, vintage, runway, market, Ralph Lauren heritage/archive, materials, stitch innovation, and knitting resources to inform distinct seasonal concepts. Create and present concept boards, sketches, color-ups, fabric/yarn stories, stitch libraries, swatches, reference garments, and prototype packages that clearly communicate a senior design vision. Develop new stitches, patterns, constructions, yarn qualities, gauges, textures, finishes, and embellishment ideas with a focus on craft, novelty, and long-term product innovation. Design inspirational prototypes for seasonal concepts and future product ideas, ensuring they advance the aesthetic direction and provide a clear foundation for line development. Bring senior-level aesthetic judgment to line reviews, editing conversations, and design development to ensure cohesion, elevation, brand expression, and relevance to the customer. Translate conceptual ideas into executable product through flat sketches, detailed illustrations, layouts, reference garments, and Tech Pack direction while preserving the creative intent. Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners, including development, technical design, production, mills, and factories, to problem-solve and refine concepts through execution. Mentor and guide junior designers by providing concept direction, design feedback, research guidance, and support in building elevated presentation materials. Manage multiple concept and design workstreams against calendar milestones, balancing creative exploration with timely execution and line completion needs. Experience, Skills & Knowledge Strong sketching and design capability Extensive knowledge of sweater design, yarns/gauges, experience with mills and factories a plus Knowledge and understanding of fit and construction Ability to capture and create the Ralph Lauren aesthetic, understanding of sweaters market Resourceful, creative, and efficient when faced with multiple projects and challenging deadlines Proven verbal and written communication skills Ability to work independently and develop strong relationships with key partners Strong Adobe suite skills, technical sketches, and detail diagrams Proficiency in Microsoft Excel/Word/PowerPoint. Proven verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence, present, and defend design concepts in both in-person and digital/hybrid settings. Ability to mentor junior talent and provide clear design direction, feedback, and support.