Apparel Design Operations Lead

Apparel Design Operations Lead Secaucus, NJ Job Details Full-time $50,000 - $100,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits AD&D insurance Disability insurance Health insurance Paid time off Adoption assistance Employee assistance program 401(k) matching Employee discount Qualifications Project team coordination Performance dashboard reports Project reporting Budget management Microsoft Excel Fashion Design Bachelor's degree in fashion design Vendor management Procedural guides Workflow management (operations management method) Bachelor's degree in business Process improvement Mid-level 3 years Product development projects Bachelor's degree Graphic design software Calendar management Fashion design Productivity software Fashion Merchandising Negotiated pricing Cross-functional collaboration Business Leadership Implementing cost-saving initiatives Communication skills Cross-functional communication Operational budget management Progress tracking (project management tasks) Managing media, arts or design teams Product lifecycle management

Full Job Description Location:

Secaucus, New Jersey Job Summary:

The Apparel Design Operations Lead is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the operational processes within the design department. This role bridges creative design and production execution, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with brand standards. The ideal candidate combines strong organizational leadership, cross-functional collaboration skills, and a deep understanding of product development workflows.

Responsibilities:

Key Accountabilities:

Operational Leadership Oversee day-to-day operations of the design team. Utilize the PLC dates and develop internal design touch points to achieve the PLC Milestone deadlines-(e.g. schedule your internal meetings for fabric, concept, sketch review) Help the design team with budget/tracking/internal design calendar meetings and making sure design is on track - they would collaborate closely with PLC Tania/Jamie/Julie to report back on design milestones Facilitate team meetings, workflow planning, and workload balancing. Collaborate closely with the Product Lifecycle to team to ensure all milestones (concept, tech packs, sampling, fittings, approvals) are met on schedule. Develop and manage internal design calendars and timelines to meet major milestones. Identify process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce development time. Cross-Functional Collaboration Serve as liaison between design, merchandising, sourcing, production, and marketing teams. Collaborate closely with the fabric, trim, and color teams to ensure all standards are accurately documented, maintained, and fully approved. Work closely with the sourcing operations team to monitor sample development, fittings, and revisions. Budget & Resource Management Support the development and maintenance of budget plans, monitor and track project expenditures, provide weekly cost versus budget status updates to the VP, and proactively identify and recommend cost saving opportunities. Systems & Process Optimizations Implement workflow tools and dashboards to track progress. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for design and development processes.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Merchandising, Business, or related field. 3-5+ years of experience in apparel design, product development, or operations. Strong understanding of garment construction, materials, and production timelines. Experience with PLM systems and Microsoft Office (Excel proficiency required). Exceptional organizational and project management skills. Strong communication and leadership abilities. Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Problem-solving mindset and detail-oriented

Skills & Behaviors:

Experience managing a design operations team. Knowledge of domestic and overseas production processes. Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite. Experience in cost negotiation and vendor management. Hourly/Salary $50,000.00 - $100,000.00 Salary o Benefits include: Bonus eligible (depending on role), Paid Time Off, Employee Discount, 401(k) and company match, Wellness Reimbursement, Adoption Assistance, free backup care (for kids, pets & the elderly), choice of health insurance plans, company-paid life/AD&D, short and long term disability, a variety of voluntary benefits and an employee assistance program. Benefit offerings are subject to change and vary by role/level for each position. Respective waiting periods may apply to certain benefit offerings. The Children's Place is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.