Joules Design Manager

The Design Project; Market Harborough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading design firm is seeking a Design Manager in Market Harborough. The ideal candidate will lead a creative team, manage the execution of product vision across categories, and be deeply involved in trend analysis. With 5-10 years of experience in design management, this role offers competitive salary and comprehensive benefits. Flexibility in work hours is possible, and the position emphasizes collaboration and innovative leadership within the fashion industry.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Private medical insurance

Flexible start and finish times

25% staff discount

Life assurance

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in design leadership roles.
• Proven track record of managing design teams and delivering successful product ranges.
• Experience in managing design projects from concept to completion.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire design team to execute creative vision across product categories.
• Analyze market trends to inform product design strategies.
• Ensure cohesive brand presentation and customer experience.

Skills

Design Management

Trend Analysis & Forecasting

Creative Vision & Execution

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Strategic Thinking

Organizational & Time Management

Communication & Influence

People Skills & Motivation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Design or related field

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems

Job description

Job Title: Design ManagerCompany: Next Plc (Joules Brand)Location: Market Harborough, Leicestershire, United KingdomJob Type: Full timeCategory: Creative & Media / Management & Leadership / RetailDate Posted: January 12, 2026Experience Level: 5-10 YearsRemote Status: On-site

• Lead and inspire a team of Designers and Assistants to execute the creative vision for the Joules brand across all product categories.
• Drive trend direction and product creative vision, ensuring market relevance and alignment with evolving consumer preferences.
• Cultivate a collaborative and motivational environment, fostering open communication and constructive feedback within the design team.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional stakeholders to ensure cohesive brand presentation and a unified brand look across all product ranges.
• Manage day‑to‑day team operations, providing strategic input and guidance to support individual and team growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical leadership position within the Joules design department, requiring a blend of creative vision, strategic thinking, and robust people management skills. The emphasis on "executing the product creative vision" and "trend direction for the entire range" highlights the strategic impact this role has on the brand's market positioning and product offering. The requirement for on‑site presence five days a week underscores the importance of direct team collaboration and hands‑on leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Trend & Creative Vision:
  • Identify, analyze, and communicate emerging and declining market trends to inform product design strategies.
  • Develop and articulate a clear creative vision for Joules product ranges, ensuring it aligns with brand identity and market demands.
  • Oversee the execution of the creative vision across all product categories, from concept to final product.
• Manage, mentor, and inspire a team of Designers and Assistants, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Set clear goals and expectations, ensuring the team is motivated and aligned with the company's vision and objectives.
• Create a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and open feedback.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to support team members' career progression.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration:
  • Build and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders across departments, including merchandising, marketing, and product development.
  • Ensure range cohesiveness by aligning design strategies with broader business objectives and brand messaging.
  • Facilitate effective communication to ensure a unified and compelling brand presentation.
• Provide strategic input and guidance on the development of new product ranges.
• Ensure all product categories contribute to a unified and compelling brand look and customer experience.
• Oversee the product creative vision from initial concept through to final execution.
• Travel & Market Insight:
  • Undertake international travel to global trade shows, inspirational trips, and factory visits to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.
  • Gather market insights and competitive intelligence to inform design strategies and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on strategic creative direction and hands‑on team leadership. The explicit mention of "executing the product creative vision" and "trend direction for the entire range" indicates a need for a candidate who can not only conceptualise but also translate ideas into tangible product lines. The inclusion of travel for trade shows and factory visits suggests a requirement for a candidate with a global perspective and the ability to source inspiration and maintain supplier relationships.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Design, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, or a related creative field is preferred, though extensive relevant experience will be considered.

Experience:

• 5‑10 years of progressive experience in design, with a significant portion in a leadership or management role within the fashion or lifestyle retail sector.
• Proven track record of leading design teams and delivering successful product ranges that align with brand identity and market trends.
• Experience in managing design projects from concept to completion, with a strong understanding of the product development lifecycle.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven experience in leading and managing design teams, including recruitment, performance management, and talent development.
• Trend Analysis & Forecasting: Deep understanding of current and emerging market trends, with the ability to translate these into actionable design concepts.
• Creative Vision & Execution: Strong aesthetic sensibility and the ability to develop and articulate a compelling creative vision for a brand.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise with diverse teams (e.g., merchandising, marketing, product development).
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align design strategies with broader business objectives and brand positioning.
• Organizational & Time Management: Exceptional ability to plan, prioritise, and execute projects to tight deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Communication & Influence: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at various levels.
• People Skills & Motivation: Demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate, and lead a team, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with global sourcing, factory visits, and international trade show participation.
• Proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is beneficial but not explicitly required for leadership.
• Experience within the UK retail landscape, particularly in lifestyle or fashionli>
• Familiarity with Joules brand aesthetic and target demographic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level of 5‑10 years, combined with the explicit need for leadership and trend analysis skills, suggests this role is for a seasoned design professional ready to step into a managerial capacity. The emphasis on "influencing within the wider team" and "shaping this role" indicates proactive contribution and strategic input are highly valued. While specific design software proficiency isn't listed as a strict requirement, a strong understanding of the design process and an exceptional "taste level" are paramount.

• Design Leadership Case Studies: Showcase examples of leading design teams, guiding creative direction, and successfully launching product ranges.
• Trend Interpretation Examples: Demonstrate how you've identified and translated market trends into commercial product designs.
• Brand Cohesion Projects: Provide examples of how you've ensured consistency and a unified brand look across multiple product categories or collections.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Highlight any instances where you've improved design workflows, team efficiency, or product development processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of designing or optimizing design department workflows, from concept generation to final product sign‑off.
• Cross‑Functional Process Integration: Examples of how you've integrated the design process with other departments (e.g., merchandising, production) to ensure seamless execution.
• Performance Measurement: How you've tracked and measured the success of design initiatives, collections, or team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application specifically requests a portfolio and cover letter, indicating that a strong visual and narrative presentation of past work is crucial. For a Design Manager role, the portfolio should not only showcase creative output but also demonstrate leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and process management. The focus should be on impactful projects that illustrate the candidate's ability to drive brand vision and manage a team effectively.

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers in the UK with 5‑10 years of experience in the retail/fashion sector, the estimated salary range is £50,000 - £70,000 per annum. This range accounts for the responsibilities, required experience, and the market for creative leadership roles in the Leicestershire region.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays with the opportunity to buy/sell.
• Private medical insurance.
• Health and Wellbeing benefits (Opt‑in Healthcare cash plan, free digital GP via Aviva App, Wellhub app access with discounted gym membership, free access to a range of health and wellness apps).
• Flexible start and finish times (with discretionary flexibility to support needs).
• 25% staff discount on Joules and NEXT products.
• Up to 10% off most NEXT partner Brands & Branded Beauty products.
• Up to 25% off Joules partner Brands.
• Opt‑in clothing allowance.
• Access to fantastic discounts at the NEXT staff shop.
• Life assurance.
• Reward Schemes (e.g., cycle to work scheme, discounts with retailers).
• Competitive employer pension contributions.
• Financial, physical, and mental wellbeing support via Employee Assistance Program.
• Dedicated Learning and Development opportunities.
• On‑site Cafe offering subsidised food.
• Free on‑site Parking & low‑cost EV charging points.

Working Hours:

• Full‑time, typically 40 hours per week. The role offers flexible start and finish times to support work‑life balance, with a requirement to be present in the office 5 days per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on typical compensation for a Design Manager role in the UK's retail and fashion industry, considering the specified experience level and location. The comprehensive benefits package reflects the offerings of a large retail organization like Next Plc, aiming to attract and retain talent by supporting employee wellbeing, work‑life balance, and providing significant staff discounts.

Industry: Retail (Fashion & Lifestyle)Company Size: Large (Part of Next Plc, a major UK retailer)Founded: Joules was founded in 1990. Next Plc is a larger, established entity.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: The Design Manager will lead a team of Designers and Assistants. This team is likely structured by product category or function.
• Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Design Director.
• Cross‑Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on collaboration with merchandising, marketing, product development, and potentially buying teams. The mention of working with the Founder, Tom Joule, and his Senior Team suggests direct interaction with senior leadership.

Methodology:

• Brand‑Centric Design: A core methodology is maintaining and enhancing the distinct Joules brand identity across all products.
• Trend‑Driven Innovation: Balancing established brand aesthetics with forward‑thinking trend analysis and creative execution.
• Collaborative Development: A process that involves close partnership across departments to ensure cohesive product offerings and market readiness.
• Data‑Informed Decisions: While creative passion is key, decisions are likely informed by market trends, customer data, and commercial viability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operating under the umbrella of Next Plc provides significant stability and resources, while Joules maintains its distinct brand identity. The culture is described as "dynamic, hard‑working, collaborative and inspirational," with a focus on creating and bringing product to market. The direct involvement of the Founder and Senior Team indicates a culture that values strong leadership and direct impact.

Operations Career Level: This role represents a significant step into senior management within the creative function. It's a pivotal position for individuals looking to transition from individual contribution or junior management to leading a substantial creative team and influencing brand‑wide design strategy.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to the Design Director, indicating a clear hierarchy within the design department. This structure allows for strategic guidance from above and delegation of day‑to‑day management to the Design Manager.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a direct and profound impact on the commercial success and brand perception of Joules. By shaping the product creative vision and ensuring range cohesiveness, this role influences customer purchasing decisions, brand loyalty, and market competitiveness.

• Senior Design Leadership: Potential progression to Design Director or Head of Design, overseeing larger creative functions or multiple brands.
• Brand Strategy: Opportunity to contribute more broadly to brand strategy and product roadmap development.
• Cross‑Functional Leadership: Potential to move into broader roles in merchandising, product management, or general management within the retail sector.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific product categories or trend forecasting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a key leadership opportunity for experienced designers. The growth path is clearly defined towards higher levels of strategic influence within the design function and potentially broader leadership roles within the retail organization. The emphasis on mentorship and "dedicated Learning and Development" suggests a supportive environment for career advancement.

Office Type: On‑site at Joules Head Office in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. The environment is described as collaborative and progressive.Office Location(s): The Barn, Joules Head Office, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QD. This is a dedicated head office location.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact with immediate team members, cross‑functional departments, and senior leadership.
• Brand Immersion: Being at the Head Office provides a direct connection to the brand's operational heart and creative output.
• On‑site Amenities: The presence of an on‑site cafe and free parking contributes to a comfortable and convenient working environment.

Work Schedule: Full‑time (approximately 40 hours/week) with flexible start and finish times. The expectation is for the Design Manager to be present in the office five days a week to facilitate team management and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "full time" and "on‑site" nature of the role, with a requirement to be present five days a week, highlights the importance of in‑person team leadership, spontaneous collaboration, and direct engagement with the creative process. The flexible hours offer a degree of autonomy within the structured on‑site requirement.

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of CVs and mandatory cover letters/portfolios. Applications without these will likely not be progressed.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing leadership experience, trend analysis, and successful design outcomes.
• Interviews:
  • Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Design Director to assess creative vision, leadership style, and strategic alignment.
  • Team/Cross‑Functional Interviews: Meetings with potential direct reports and key stakeholders from other departments to evaluate collaboration skills and cultural fit.
  • Senior Leadership/Founder Interview: Potential final stage involving the Founder (Tom Joule) or senior management to assess overall fit with the brand and company vision.
• Showcase Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in managing teams, mentoring designers, and driving creative direction. Use specific examples of projects you led.
• Demonstrate Trend Acumen: Include case studies that highlight your ability to identify trends and translate them into commercially successful product designs.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs or team's output (e.g., sales performance, conversion rates, positive customer feedback).
• Brand Alignment: Ensure your portfolio clearly shows how your design aesthetic and approach align with the Joules brand identity.
• Process & Strategy: Explain your design process, how you collaborate cross‑functionally, and how you approach strategic planning for design initiatives.
• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing creative teams, resolving design conflicts, and adapting to changing market demands.
• Have examples ready of how you've inspired teams, fostered creativity, and driven innovation.
• Understand the Joules brand, its target audience, and its competitive landscape. Be ready to articulate your vision for its future design direction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a cover letter and portfolio is a key differentiator. Candidates must prepare a comprehensive portfolio that demonstrates not only design talent but also leadership capabilities and strategic thinking. The interview process is likely multi‑stage, involving assessment of creative vision, leadership skills, and cultural fit.

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency in industry‑standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is likely expected for the team, and a strong understanding of these tools is beneficial for the manager.
• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Experience with PLM software for managing product development, specifications, and timelines may be advantageous.
• Trend Forecasting Platforms: Familiarity with resources like WGSN or similar trend forecasting services would be highly beneficial for market analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales & Performance Data: Ability to interpret sales data, conversion rates, and customer feedback to inform design decisions.
• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in using internal reporting dashboards or software to track design project progress and team performance.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a core CRM role, understanding how design impacts customer perception and potentially integrating with marketing insights is relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a strong Design Manager in the retail space would typically be proficient with core design software and have experience with systems that facilitate product development and trend analysis. The ability to interpret data from sales and performance reports is also critical for strategic decision‑making.

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and pushing creative boundaries within the brand's aesthetic.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals work together towards common goals.
• Passion & Dedication: A shared enthusiasm for the brand and its products, driving commitment to excellence.
• Customer Focus: Designing with the end customer and their lifestyle in mind.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding high standards in product design and execution.
• Open Communication: Encouraging honest dialogue and feedback across all levels and departments.
• Cross‑Functional Partnerships: Building strong, proactive relationships with merchandising, marketing, and product teams to ensure a unified approach.
• Inspirational Leadership: Leading by example, motivating the team, and fostering a positive, forward‑thinking atmosphere.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a strong sense of brand identity, collaboration, and a passion for creating products that resonate with customers. The mention of working with the Founder suggests a culture that values direct involvement and a clear vision.

• Balancing Brand Heritage with Modern Trends: Continuously evolving the Joules aesthetic to remain relevant while honoring its established brand identity.
• Managing Diverse Product Categories: Overseeing design across a wide range of product types, each with its own specific requirements and target audience.
• Fast‑Paced Retail Environment: Adapting to tight deadlines and the dynamic nature of the fashion retail calendar.
• Inspiring and Developing Talent: Continuously motivating a creative team and fostering their professional growth in a competitive industry.
• Mentorship from Senior Leadership: Direct access to the Design Director, Founder, and Senior Team for guidance and knowledge sharing.
• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend global trade shows and inspirational trips for continuous learning and market insight.
• Leadership Development Programs: Potential access to internal or external training focused on management and leadership skills.
• Brand Expansion Insights: Learning about broader brand strategy and product development across a large retail organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity to shape the future design direction of an iconic British lifestyle brand. The challenges are typical of senior creative leadership roles in retail, requiring a strategic mindset and strong execution capabilities. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement within the organization.

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a seasonal trend direction for a lifestyle brand like Joules. How do you balance market trends with brand heritage?"
• "How would you foster a culture of innovation and creativity within your design team, and how do you manage constructive feedback?"
• "Walk us through a time you had to ensure range cohesiveness across multiple product categories. What were the challenges and your strategy?"
• "How do you collaborate with merchandising and marketing teams to ensure product launches are successful and aligned with brand messaging?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about the Joules brand and its design aesthetic?"
• "How do you align your leadership style with a company culture that emphasizes collaboration and inspiration?"
• "How do you measure the success of a design team and its output?"
• "Describe your experience working with senior leadership or founders. How do you communicate creative vision effectively to them?"
• Structure: Organise your portfolio by key projects or themes (e.g., Trend Development, Team Leadership, Successful Collections).
• Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the process you followed, the challenges you overcame, and the measurable outcomes.
• Visuals: Use high‑quality imagery of your work, but ensure the focus remains on your strategic contribution and leadership.
• Data: Integrate relevant data points (e.g., sales performance, market share impact, efficiency improvements) to quantify your achievements.
• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing creative teams, resolving design conflicts, and adapting to changing market demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of brand‑led design, effective team leadership, and strategic cross‑functional collaboration. The interview will likely assess not only creative ability but also the candidate's capacity to manage a team, drive business results, and align with Joules' unique brand ethos.

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link, ensuring you include a comprehensive cover letter and a strong portfolio.
• Portfolio Customisation: Tailor your portfolio to highlight your experience in trend direction, team leadership, and driving creative vision for lifestyle brands. Showcase specific examples of how you've ensured brand cohesiveness.
• Resume Optimisation: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience in design management, your leadership accomplishments, and your ability to influence cross‑functional teams. Use keywords such as "Design Management," "Trend Analysis," "Creative Vision," and "Team Leadership."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design philosophy, leadership approach, and how you would contribute to the Joules brand. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate your capabilities.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Joules and Next Plc. Understand their brand values, target audience, recent collections, and market position. Be ready to discuss your vision for the Joules design future.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI‑generated insights and operations industry‑standard assumptions tailored for a creative leadership role. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organisation before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have excellent knowledge of trends and exceptional taste, along with strong communication skills to influence the wider team. They should be organised, able to manage time effectively, and demonstrate the ability to inspire and lead a team of designers.