Design Director Job at The People Brand in Austin

Base pay range

$140,000.00 / yr - $170,000.00 / yr

We’re seeking a Director of Design to lead the creative and technical development of our full product assortment including apparel, accessories, and bags / packs . This is a high-impact leadership role that will set the brand’s design direction, elevate product execution, and strengthen our creative identity across all categories.

The ideal candidate is both visionary and detail-driven; equally comfortable leading seasonal concepting sessions as they are reviewing tech packs, fittings, or factory samples. This leader will collaborate closely with Product Development, Production, and Marketing to bring inspired, commercially viable products to life that honor the brand lifestyle and resonate with our customers.

What You’ll Do

Creative & Brand Leadership

Define the overarching design vision and seasonal direction across all product categories.

Develop cohesive brand stories that connect product, function, and lifestyle - ensuring all designs reflect our core values and aesthetic.

Lead seasonal design reviews and concept presentations, providing creative rationale, inspiration, and market insight.

Partner closely with executive leadership to align design vision with business strategy and brand goals.

Oversee the full product creation process, from concept through final production handoff, ensuring a strong point of view and brand consistency.

Guide the team in balancing innovation with commercial viability — ensuring designs meet performance, cost, and quality targets.

Lead research and trend analysis across color, material, and silhouette direction to identify new opportunities that align with our customer base.

Drive cross-functional collaboration with merchandising, product development, and sourcing to achieve design and margin goals.

Team Development & Execution

Mentor and manage a growing team of designers and graphic artists, fostering creativity, accountability, and excellence.

Oversee the quality and accuracy of design deliverables, ensuring technical details and brand standards are upheld through sampling and production.

Build strong partnerships with internal and external partners — from factory counterparts to marketing — to ensure design integrity throughout the process.

Maintain a pulse on emerging design tools, sustainable materials, and category innovation to strengthen our design capabilities.

What We’re Looking For

10+ years of design experience across menswear, accessories, or lifestyle categories (outdoor or performance background preferred).

Demonstrated success managing full seasonal assortments from concept through production.

Strong technical design expertise and deep understanding of garment construction, fabric performance, and product testing.

Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, and PLM tools for building and managing tech packs.

Experience developing cut-and-sew knits, wovens, outerwear, and accessories.

Strategic mindset with the ability to blend creativity, data, and commercial awareness.

Strong communication, leadership, and team development skills.

A genuine appreciation for craftsmanship, timeless design, and a purpose-driven brand mission.

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Design

Industries

Retail Apparel and Fashion

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

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