Website Cape Union Mart International
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Designer – Green Thread | Cape Union Mart International | Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent Position
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Posted: 10 November 2025
About the Role
Cape Union Mart International is seeking a Designer – Green Thread to join its creative team in Cape Town. The Designer will conceptualize, design, and deliver innovative and functional design solutions across retail and leisure apparel brands. This role requires strong creative vision, technical proficiency, and the ability to collaborate across teams to bring ideas from concept to completion while maintaining brand integrity and production efficiency.
Job Details
Department: Other
Experience Level: Entry Level
Industry: Retail
Functional Area: Design
Purpose
To conceptualize and execute innovative design solutions that align with brand identity, meet functional objectives, and support the company’s retail and leisure divisions — ensuring each project is completed within scope, time, and budget.
Key Responsibilities
Conceptual Design Development
- Develop innovative, functional, and brand-aligned design concepts for retail and leisure collections.
- Create detailed design briefs based on project specifications and brand direction.
- Research global fashion trends, materials, and technologies to ensure designs remain modern and competitive.
- Collaborate with buyers, technical teams, and sourcing departments to align creative vision with project goals.
Design Presentation & Proposals
- Prepare and deliver compelling design presentations, sketches, renderings, and mood boards.
- Present design concepts to internal teams and stakeholders, refining ideas based on feedback.
- Effectively communicate creative solutions to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Technical Drawings & Documentation
- Produce accurate technical drawings and specifications for production and manufacturing.
- Provide detailed measurements, color schemes, and material selections for production teams.
- Utilize CAD software and other design tools to create precise, professional design documents.
Collaboration & Project Management
- Work closely with patternmakers, garment technologists, sourcing, and production teams to ensure design accuracy.
- Monitor project timelines and progress, ensuring smooth execution from concept to final product.
- Adjust design elements as necessary to meet production, cost, or client requirements.
Material Selection & Sourcing
- Select and specify suitable materials, finishes, and colors to complement design objectives.
- Work with sourcing teams to identify materials that meet design, quality, and budget goals.
- Ensure chosen materials balance aesthetics, durability, and sustainability.
Client Interaction & Relationship Management
- Maintain open communication with clients throughout the design process.
- Understand client needs and translate them into practical, visually appealing design solutions.
- Offer expert advice on design trends, materials, and construction techniques.
Innovation & Trend Awareness
- Stay informed about global design trends, sustainability initiatives, and emerging technologies.
- Experiment with new design tools and materials to enhance creativity and innovation.
- Participate in design workshops and industry events to maintain professional growth.
Budget and Time Management
- Ensure all design projects are completed within budget and on schedule.
- Propose cost-effective design options without compromising creativity or quality.
- Manage timelines and resources effectively to meet seasonal and project deadlines.
Qualifications & Experience
- Diploma or Degree in Fashion Design or related field.
- Certification in CAD, 3D design software, or other design tools is advantageous.
- 3–5 years’ experience in retail or leisure design, with a strong design portfolio.
- Solid understanding of conceptual design, technical drawings, material selection, and project management.
Skills
- Proficiency in CAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), and 3D visualization tools.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and technical translation of designs.
- Exceptional creativity, communication, and visual storytelling abilities.
- Attention to detail, adaptability, and strong problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple design projects simultaneously.
Behavioural Competencies
- Independent and team-oriented work approach.
- Excellent time management and organizational skills.
- Commitment to continuous learning and trend awareness in fashion and retail design.
Employment Equity Statement
The Cape Union Mart Group is committed to transformation. Appointments and promotions will be made based on candidates who best meet the requirements for the position. Preference will be given to candidates who will enhance the diversity of the team, in alignment with the company’s Employment Equity Plan.
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To apply for this job please visit capeunionmart.simplify.hr.