Head Of Design

Job Summary:

The Head of Designs will lead the creation of innovative new jewellery collections, drawing inspiration from diverse sources. Each collection should revolve around a specific theme, set new trends in the market, and drive both higher sales and new customer traffic to showrooms. This role involves end-to-end ownership of the design process. The Head will combine external trend research with internal insights from sales, sourcing, and manufacturing teams to develop collections tailored to different customer segments across regions.

Key Responsibilities:

The key responsibilities of the Head Design would include, but are not limited to the following,

Strategic Planning & Product Roadmap:

Develop a roadmap for new product strategy aligned with target customer segments, sourcing capabilities, and overall brand proposition.

Translate the product strategy into detailed annual plans, including new products, designs, and collections.

Regularly review and adapt product strategy in response to changing market conditions and customer preferences.

Design Development & Innovation:

Provide inputs and direction to in-house designers for the development of new designs; review and select final designs.

Develop innovative, high-quality designs based on market trends and gaps in current offerings.

Ensure manufacturing feasibility for new designs through collaboration with the vendor development team.

Prepare design prototypes based on inputs from the new product development team.

Market Research & Benchmarking:

Attend jewellery trade fairs and exhibitions to interact with customers, study market trends, and benchmark against competitors.

Conduct regular market visits and engage with sales teams and product functions to inform new product and collection planning.

Monitor sales and customer response to new designs and adjust direction as needed.

Cross Functional Collaboration & Vendor Management

Liaise with internal teams (e.g. vendor development, sourcing, sales) to ensure smooth design-to-manufacturing transition.

Identify and pursue opportunities for tie-ups with design agencies and external vendors.

Performance Monitoring and Feedback:

Introduce new products with shorter lead time from concept to consumer and track the performance.

Track sales performance and market reactions to newly launched designs.

Use data and feedback to make course corrections and improve future design strategies.

Preferred profile:

Education & Experience

Degree in Jewellery Design, preferably from NIFT or another reputed design institution.

At least 15 years of relevant experience in jewellery design, with a strong track record of product innovation and design leadership.

Core Competencies

Strong clarity of thought and effective verbal and written communication.

Deep understanding of jewellery trends, customer preferences, and market dynamics.

Proven ability to develop innovative, market-ready designs and manage design strategy end-to-end.

Leadership & Collaboration

Demonstrated leadership ability capable of guiding design teams and working closely with senior leadership, including the Managing Director.

Strong influencing skills able to align and inspire cross-functional teams and stakeholders