Garment Design Manager

Head of Design Clothing & Textiles

Job post summary

Pay: £35,000.00-£47,000.00 per year

Job Description: Head of Design Clothing & Textiles

Join the Team

Are you passionate about design, innovation, and leading creative projects from concept to completion? Riva (UK) Ltd is seeking a talented and driven senior Designer/Design Manager to oversee our dynamic product lifecycle as Head of Design.

About the Role

In this role, you will manage the full journey of product development, from initial customer consultations through to final production. Your expertise will shape our offerings and help us deliver exceptional results, supporting business growth, design team development and innovation at every stage.

Key Responsibilities

· Oversee product conceptualization, design, and estimation processes by collaborating with customers to understand their needs, commercial requirements, and current market trends.

· Oversee sample development management, ensuring timely delivery and outstanding quality.

· Project Management: Manage multiple projects efficiently, keeping schedules on track and teams informed.

· Commercial: Build and maintain strong client relationships, providing expert support throughout the development process.

· Work with other departments to source materials and prepare cost-effective, production-ready designs.

· Sustain and monitor quality assurance standards (ISO 9001/14001).

· Mentor, train and support team members, sharing your knowledge and encouraging growth.

· Create client presentations, prepare technical specifications, and review manufacturing instructions.

· Utilise CAD (Gerber Accumark Software) and Adobe Illustrator (or similar) for design and sample delivery.

· Support the transition from sampling to production, ensuring seamless delivery from internal and external manufacturing sources.

What We’re Looking For

· Experience in managing product lifecycles or leading design teams in B2B manufacturing (automotive, defence, healthcare, or similar textiles clothing).

· A degree in Design or related field is preferred or 5 years + in a similar role.

· Confident with 3D CAD, Gerber Accumark, and Adobe Illustrator (or similar design tools).

· Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

· Proficiency with MRP/CRM systems and Microsoft Office.

· Adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment.

· Creativity and a real passion for textile engineering and design.

· Flexibility to support changing business needs.

· Demonstrates a proactive attitude with a willingness to contribute at all stages and participate directly when necessary.

What’s on Offer

· Competitive salary 45k to 55k dependant on Experience

· 28 days of holiday, including public holidays.

· Private Healthcare

· Hybrid working policy, with early Friday finishes at 2pm.

· Opportunities for both internal and external training.

· Work-based pension scheme.

If you’re ready to make an impact, bring your creative vision and help shape the future of design. Apply today!

Job Type: Full-time

Application question(s):

• Do you have at least 2 years of CAD Design experience(Gerber Accumart):

• Project management: 5 years (required)

Work Location: In person

Additional interview questions:

Experience in Textiles