Design Manager, Hosiery

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Hosiery

Company: Implus

Location: Durham, North Carolina, USA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Product Development (Operations Focus)

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of active and lifestyle sock categories, as well as accessories like slippers and cold-weather gear, aligning with market trends and consumer needs.

• Manage and mentor a team of designers, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment to drive creative excellence and achieve business objectives.

• Drive the seasonal product design process from initial concept through to commercialization, ensuring seamless integration with merchandising, product development, and sales teams.

• Develop and manage private label programs for major mass-market retailers, requiring a keen understanding of retail demands and brand partnerships.

• Utilize expertise in circular knitting, advanced yarn technologies, and knit execution to innovate and enhance product fit, comfort, and athletic performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is for a Design Manager, its emphasis on product development, commercialization, private label programs, and cross-functional collaboration with merchandising, product development, and sales positions it within the broader scope of GTM operations. The need to manage timelines, optimize product offerings, and ensure commercial viability aligns closely with operational excellence principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• People Leadership & Team Development:

  • Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of designers and assistants, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment that encourages creative risk-taking and innovation.
  • Actively participate in attracting, developing, and retaining top design talent, conducting regular performance evaluations and supporting individual career growth paths.
  • Oversee daily operations for the creative team, balancing workloads, removing roadblocks, and ensuring strict adherence to the seasonal product development calendar.
  • Build strong, productive relationships with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales to ensure the design team's vision aligns with overarching brand and revenue goals.

• Design Expertise & Creative Vision:

  • Drive seasonal trend research, color palettes, and material innovations specifically targeted at performance, activewear, and lifestyle hosiery.
  • Act as a "player-coach" by directly executing design CADs, tech packs, and technical sketches in Adobe Illustrator when needed to support team bandwidth and meet critical deadlines.
  • Apply deep knowledge of circular knitting, advanced yarn technologies, and knit execution to push the boundaries of fit, comfort, and athletic performance.
  • Oversee the meticulous creation of tech packs and line sheets, approving lab dips, trims, and final prototypes to ensure licensor and brand standards are met.
  • Lead the design team in identifying and resolving complex fit, construction, and manufacturing issues during the sampling and production process.

• Product Commercialization & Private Label Management:

  • Develop and execute design strategies for both owned brands and private label programs, ensuring they meet retailer specifications and market demands.

  • Collaborate closely with sales and product development teams to translate commercial objectives into actionable design briefs and product roadmaps.

  • Ensure all product designs are commercially viable, cost-effective, and align with the company's production capabilities and quality standards.

  • Manage the end-to-end product lifecycle from concept ideation through to final production, with a focus on timely delivery and market readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for strong project management and process adherence, critical for any operations-focused role. The "player-coach" aspect implies a hands-on approach to design execution, which can be translated into understanding and optimizing design workflows.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Apparel/Textile Design, Graphic Design, or a related field of study, OR an equivalent combination of education and years of industry experience. Experience:

• 5+ years in apparel or accessories design, with a mandatory and proven track record in socks, accessories, and/or performance knits.

• 2+ years of direct people management experience, demonstrating the ability to guide, evaluate, and scale creative teams effectively.

• Experience designing for mass-market retailers and/or developing private label programs is highly preferred. Required Skills:

• People Leadership: Proven ability to attract, retain, and evaluate talent, while actively managing the workflow and career development of design assistants and associates.

• Time & Project Management: Ability to plan, prioritize, and meet tight deadlines within a fast-paced product development calendar while balancing team workloads and multiple projects.

• Creative Problem Solving: Ability to respond to design and production challenges with innovative, cost-effective, and commercially viable solutions.

• Cross-Functional Influence: Ability to bridge the gap between creative design, merchandising, and production to ensure commercial viability and adherence to the development calendar.

• Adaptability: Flexible attitude with the ability to pivot quickly based on shifting market needs; operates successfully and positively in a constructive feedback culture.

• Technical Proficiency: Highly proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and Microsoft Office.

• Design Expertise: Deep knowledge of circular knitting, advanced yarn technologies, and knit execution.

Preferred Skills:

• CAD Execution: Hands-on ability to execute design CADs, tech packs, and technical sketches in Adobe Illustrator.

• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing product data and workflows.

• 3D Design Tools: Experience with 3D design software (e.g., Clo3D) is a strong advantage.

• Trend Tools: Experience utilizing professional consumer trend-forecasting platforms (such as WGSN) and interpreting retail market analytics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "player-coach" suggests that candidates with a strong foundational understanding of design tools and processes will be well-positioned. Proficiency in PLM systems is a key operational skill for managing product development pipelines.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A professional portfolio demonstrating advanced technical CAD abilities, cohesive color/trend ideation, structural knitwear understanding, and commercialized product collections.

• Showcase examples of private label program development, highlighting collaboration with retailers and successful product launches.

• Include case studies illustrating how design challenges were overcome with innovative, cost-effective, and commercially viable solutions.

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of the product development lifecycle from concept to commercialization, with examples of process optimization.

• Present examples of managing design workflows and team resources to meet tight deadlines and business objectives. Process Documentation:

• Ability to create and maintain detailed tech packs and line sheets, ensuring accuracy and completeness for manufacturing.

• Document and communicate design specifications, including material requirements, construction details, and quality standards.

• Outline processes for trend research, material innovation, and concept development to ensure a structured approach to design ideation.

• Develop and refine workflows for prototype review, lab dip approvals, and final sample sign-offs to maintain quality control.

• Document collaboration processes with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales teams to ensure alignment and efficient execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio that highlights process, problem-solving, and commercial outcomes is crucial for this role, reflecting a GTM operations mindset where execution and results are paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the apparel and accessories sector, particularly in specialized areas like hosiery and performance knits, located in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina, the estimated salary range is $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the hybrid work model, direct team leadership responsibilities, and the blend of creative direction with commercial program management. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and access to trend forecasting platforms.

• Employee discount on Implus brands.

• Hybrid work model flexibility, balancing in-office collaboration with remote work.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Working hours are traditional, Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm ET.

• Flexibility may be required during peak product development cycles, GTM milestones, and retail meetings, aligning with the hybrid work model's fluctuating in-office days based on business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on aggregated data for similar roles in the Durham, NC area and the broader consumer goods/apparel industry, considering the specified experience level and management responsibilities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Global Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) with a strong focus on Footwear Accessories, Hosiery, Specialty Running, Outdoor, Fitness, and Movement categories. Implus operates across a diverse range of product types, selling in over 80,000 retail locations globally.

Company Size: Implus is a significant player in its market, with a global presence and a substantial brand portfolio, indicating a mid-to-large enterprise structure. This size offers opportunities for impact within a structured environment.

Founded: Implus has a history of growth and acquisition, establishing itself as an industry leader over time. This suggests a culture that values both established processes and strategic expansion.

Team Structure:

• The Design team reports to the Senior Director of Everyday Hosiery, providing a clear reporting line.

• This role involves direct leadership of a team of designers and assistants, requiring strong management capabilities.

• Close collaboration is expected with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales departments, highlighting a cross-functional operational structure.

• The company emphasizes an inclusive culture, valuing diverse perspectives and collaborative work. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creative, the role emphasizes utilizing trend research, market analytics, and consumer insights to inform design decisions.

• Process Optimization: The focus on seasonal calendars, product development cycles, and resolving manufacturing issues points to a structured, process-oriented approach.

• Commercial Focus: A key aspect is ensuring designs are commercially viable, cost-effective, and meet the needs of both owned brands and private label retail partners.

• Innovation: Encouragement of creative risk-taking and exploration of new materials and technologies is part of the design ethos.

Company Website: https://www.implus.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's CPG focus and extensive brand portfolio suggest a dynamic environment where operational efficiency in product development and go-to-market strategies is critical for success. The emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration is a key cultural aspect for potential hires.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within the product development and design function. It requires a blend of creative leadership, technical expertise, and operational management skills. The "player-coach" aspect suggests a hands-on approach that is common in growing organizations where individuals often wear multiple hats.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports directly to the Senior Director of Everyday Hosiery. This provides a clear management hierarchy and a direct line for strategic guidance and operational oversight. The role also involves leading a team of designers, creating a sub-structure within the department.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping the product portfolio that drives revenue. By leading the design process for key categories and managing private label programs, this role directly influences product market fit, commercial success, and ultimately, the company's profitability. Effective design management ensures that products meet consumer demand and retailer expectations, minimizing costly development errors and maximizing sales potential.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into a Director-level role, overseeing larger design teams or broader product categories within Implus.

• Strategic Product Development: Opportunity to influence long-term product strategy, innovation roadmaps, and market positioning for key brands.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Deepen understanding and influence across Merchandising, Product Development, Sales, and Marketing functions, enhancing overall GTM operational knowledge.

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific product areas (e.g., performance knits, sustainable materials) or private label program management.

• Mentorship: Continue to develop leadership skills by mentoring junior designers and contributing to the company's talent development initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a well-established CPG company. The blend of creative and operational responsibilities provides a strong foundation for future leadership roles in product management or GTM strategy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in Durham, NC, within the Research Triangle Park area, a hub for innovation and corporate presence. The work model is hybrid, requiring fluctuating in-office days based on business needs, GTM milestones, and retail meetings. This suggests a modern office setup designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s):

• Primary office location: 2001 TW Alexander Drive, Durham, NC 27709.

• This location is in a well-established business park area, likely offering good accessibility and amenities. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates a workspace that supports both individual focus and team interaction. Expect shared workspaces, meeting rooms equipped for hybrid collaboration, and common areas for informal discussions.

• Design Resources: Access to sample archives, design boards, and potentially advanced design software and hardware will be available to support the creative process.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to collaborate with designers, merchandisers, product developers, and sales teams, fostering a dynamic and integrated work environment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm ET.

• The hybrid nature means that in-office days will vary based on project needs and business calendars, requiring adaptability and strong self-management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment requires candidates to be self-motivated and adept at managing their time and communication across different work settings. Understanding the rhythm of GTM milestones is key to navigating the fluctuating in-office requirements.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the Senior Director of Everyday Hosiery to delve into your design philosophy, leadership experience, and understanding of the hosiery market.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with members of the design team and key stakeholders from Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales to evaluate collaboration style, technical skills, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Presentation & Case Study: A dedicated session where you will present your portfolio, showcasing specific projects, design process, and problem-solving approaches. You may be asked to walk through a specific case study demonstrating your ability to manage a product development cycle or overcome a design challenge.

• Final Interview: A concluding interview, potentially with senior leadership, to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Impact: Focus not just on the aesthetic of your designs, but on the process you followed, the challenges you overcame, and the commercial results achieved (e.g., sales performance, retailer adoption).

• Showcase Leadership: Include examples where you mentored junior designers, managed team workloads, or influenced cross-functional partners.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Ensure your CADs, tech packs, and material knowledge are clearly presented and technically accurate.

• Tailor to Implus: Research Implus's brands and target markets. Show how your design approach and portfolio align with their current product lines and future aspirations.

• Private Label Expertise: If applicable, clearly present your experience in developing private label programs, detailing your understanding of retailer needs and collaboration strategies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific design challenge, such as developing a new line of performance socks for a specific sport or improving the sustainability of an existing product line.

• Anticipate questions about managing competing priorities, resolving conflicts within a team, and balancing creative vision with commercial constraints.

• Practice articulating your design strategy and process concisely and persuasively, as if presenting to stakeholders who may not have a design background.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only their design talent but also their operational acumen in managing projects, teams, and product lifecycles, aligning with the GTM operational expectations of this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Illustrator: Essential for creating CADs, technical sketches, and detailed artwork for product development. Proficiency is mandatory.
  • Adobe Photoshop: Used for mood boards, color palettes, material mock-ups, and presentation graphics.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Excel: For data analysis, line sheets, project tracking, and budget management.
  • PowerPoint: For presentations, trend reports, and internal stakeholder communications.
  • Word: For documentation and general correspondence.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Experience with PLM software (specific vendor not mentioned, but common in apparel/CPG) for managing product data, specifications, and workflows.

• 3D Design Software (Preferred): Tools like Clo3D or Browzwear for creating virtual prototypes, enabling faster iteration and reducing physical sample needs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Trend Forecasting Platforms: Experience with services like WGSN for market research, trend analysis, and informing design direction.

• Retail Market Analytics: Ability to interpret sales data, competitor analysis, and consumer insights from retail partners or market research firms.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing a CRM, understanding how design specifications feed into broader sales and marketing efforts is beneficial. Experience with systems that integrate design data into broader product management workflows is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in design software and PLM systems is critical for operational efficiency in product development. Experience with trend forecasting tools demonstrates a proactive and data-informed approach to design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales to achieve shared business objectives. This involves open communication, active listening, and a willingness to compromise.

• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging new ideas, exploring novel materials and technologies, and pushing creative boundaries within the hosiery and accessories space.

• Customer Focus: Designing products that meet the needs and desires of consumers, whether for owned brands or private label retailers. Understanding market demands and translating them into desirable products.

• Efficiency & Execution: A commitment to meeting deadlines, managing workloads effectively, and ensuring that designs are commercially viable and ready for production. This includes a "player-coach" mentality where personal contribution is key to team success.

• Inclusivity: Valuing diverse perspectives and fostering an environment where all team members feel respected and empowered to contribute.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The design team is expected to be tightly integrated with other departments, participating in product review meetings, sales strategy discussions, and GTM planning.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: An environment where feedback is regularly exchanged, both given and received, to continuously improve designs and processes. Adaptability to feedback is key.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share insights from trend research, material innovations, and market analysis to elevate the entire team's capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated value of inclusivity, combined with the operational need for strong cross-functional collaboration, shapes the ideal candidate profile for this role, emphasizing teamwork and communication.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Commercial Demands: Ensuring innovative designs are also cost-effective, manufacturable, and meet the specific requirements of mass-market retailers and private label programs.

• Managing Multiple Product Categories & Brands: Overseeing design for diverse product types (hosiery, slippers, cold weather, hair/beauty accessories) across owned brands and private label accounts, requiring strong organizational skills.

• Adapting to Fast-Paced Market Trends: Staying ahead of rapidly changing consumer preferences and fashion trends in the activewear and lifestyle markets.

• Leading and Developing a Design Team: Effectively mentoring junior designers, managing performance, and fostering a high-performing creative environment within a hybrid work structure.

• Navigating Production Complexities: Working closely with product development and manufacturing partners to resolve fit, construction, and material issues during the sampling and production phases.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to train on new design software, 3D modeling, and emerging material technologies.

• Industry Trend Exposure: Access to trend forecasting services (like WGSN) and participation in industry events or trade shows to stay abreast of market developments.

• Leadership Development: Formal training or mentorship programs focused on people management, strategic planning, and cross-functional leadership.

• Product Development Lifecycle Mastery: Deepening expertise across the entire product development and commercialization process, from concept to retail shelf.

• Private Label Program Expertise: Gaining in-depth experience managing relationships and product strategies for major retail partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for growth by tackling complex challenges that span creative, operational, and leadership domains within the CPG industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a design team, particularly in a hybrid work environment. How do you foster creativity and ensure accountability?"

  • Preparation: Prepare specific examples of how you've mentored designers, managed workloads, and conducted performance reviews. Discuss strategies for maintaining team cohesion and productivity in a hybrid setting.

• "Walk me through a challenging product development cycle you managed. What were the key obstacles, how did you address them, and what was the commercial outcome?"

  • Preparation: Select a case study from your portfolio that highlights your problem-solving skills, cross-functional collaboration, and ability to deliver commercially successful products. Focus on quantifiable results.

• "How do you balance staying ahead of fashion trends with the commercial realities of mass-market retail and private label programs?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your methods for trend research (e.g., WGSN, market analysis) and how you translate those insights into designs that are both innovative and commercially viable for specific retailer needs and price points.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Implus and our brand portfolio, specifically in the hosiery and accessories categories?"

  • Preparation: Research Implus's brands (Balega, Sof Sole, Yaktrax, etc.) and understand their market positioning. Connect your experience and passion to these brands.

• "How do you approach collaboration with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales teams to ensure successful product launches?"

  • Preparation: Provide examples of successful cross-functional partnerships. Emphasize your communication style, ability to understand different departmental needs, and commitment to shared goals.

• "Implus values inclusivity and diverse perspectives. How have you fostered an inclusive environment within your previous design teams?"

  • Preparation: Share concrete examples of how you've promoted diversity, encouraged different viewpoints, and ensured equitable treatment of team members.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: Organize your portfolio around key projects, highlighting the problem, your process, your solution, and the impact.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data to demonstrate success (e.g., sales figures, market share increase, cost savings, efficiency improvements).

• Showcase Technical Skills: Clearly present your CADs, tech packs, and material knowledge. Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of knitwear and construction.

• Emphasize Leadership & Collaboration: Include examples of team management, mentorship, and successful cross-functional partnerships.

• Tailor to the Role: Ensure your presentation highlights experience relevant to hosiery, performance knits, accessories, and private label programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design talent but also strong operational management, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills, which are critical for success in this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Paycom.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in hosiery, performance knits, accessories design, people leadership, and private label program management. Emphasize achievements using quantifiable metrics.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your best work in relevant categories, clearly showcasing your design process, technical skills, and commercial impact. Include examples of private label work and leadership experience.

• Prepare for the Portfolio Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio, articulating your design strategy, problem-solving approach, and leadership capabilities concisely and persuasively. Be ready to discuss specific projects in detail.

• Research Implus: Thoroughly research Implus, its brands, its market position, and its company culture. Understand their commitment to innovation and inclusivity to align your responses during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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