Senior Manager, Technical Design (girls)

About the role

The Senior Manager, Technical Design (Kids) leads the technical design function for children’s apparel, ensuring best-in-class fit, safety, quality, and consistency across all kids' categories (infant, toddler, boys, girls).

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of kids Technical Designers across categories
• Set performance goals and provide ongoing coaching and feedback
• Build team expertise in kids fit, safety requirements, and construction
• Manage workload, prioritize resources, and ensure deadlines are met
• Define and implement fit strategy by age group and category
• Establish standards for growth allowance, comfort, and mobility
• Oversee fit sessions to ensure consistency and accuracy
• Resolve complex fit challenges across size ranges (infants through youth)
• Maintain and evolve block libraries and grading standards
• Ensure accuracy and consistency of tech packs, including: Points of Measure (POMs), Grading and tolerances, Construction details
• Drive improvements in first-time fit approval and sample efficiency
• Drive initiatives to improve: Speed to market, Sample iteration reduction, Fit consistency, Standardized workflows, templates, and best practices
• Implement and optimize PLM systems and digital tools
• Champion adoption of 3D design/fit tools (e.g., CLO, Browzwear)
• Partner with global vendors and factories to ensure execution of kids-specific requirements
• Collaborate with: Design (aesthetic + functionality alignment), Product Development (cost + feasibility), Sourcing/Production (manufacturing execution)
• Resolve escalated vendor or quality issues
• Monitor key metrics such as: Fit approval rates, Sample cycle time, Fit-related returns
• Identify root causes of quality or fit issues and implement solutions

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Technical Design, or related field preferred
• 8–12 years in technical design
• 3–5+ years of leadership/people management experience
• Strong experience in kids’ apparel (infant–youth) required
• Deep understanding of kids garment construction and fit
• Expertise in growth allowance, ergonomic fit, and durability requirements
• Advanced patternmaking and grading knowledge
• Advanced fabric and material knowledge
• PLM systems (FlexPLM, Centric, etc.) proficiency
• Adobe Illustrator proficiency

Qualifications

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience with industry-standard software and tools
• Knowledge of child safety regulations and compliance standards
• Understanding of industry trends and consumer preferences

Skills

• Technical design and fit expertise
• Leadership and mentoring skills
• Collaboration and cross-functional teamwork
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Attention to detail and quality control
• Project management and time management

Benefits

• Industry-competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits plan (medical, dental, vision)
• Matching 401(k)
• Summer Fridays
• Generous PTO
• Merchandise discounts
• Excellent career development opportunities
• Work environment reflecting industry leadership
• Social impact program, Centric Cares
• D&I committee shaping diversity, equity, and inclusion

Pay

$120,000 - $125,000 annually

Schedule

Nightly shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed