R&D Graphic Designer R&D Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: R&D Graphic Designer

Company: OTB Spa (Brave Kid)

Location: Marostica, Veneto, Italy

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Development & Design Operations

Date Posted: June 4, 2025

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing graphic design support within the Research & Development (R&D) department, specifically for children's apparel and accessories.

• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in translating brand visions and creative briefs into tangible design assets for product lines.

• A key aspect of the role involves technical preparation of graphic files for various production methods, including prints, allovers, embroidery, and applications.

• The position requires a strong understanding of both traditional and digital design techniques, with a focus on textile applications and print readiness, ensuring seamless integration into the product development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core responsibilities lean heavily into creative design and technical file preparation, the "R&D" designation suggests a role that is deeply integrated with the product innovation pipeline. This implies a need for a designer who can not only execute creative visions but also contribute to the early stages of product conceptualization and material research from a graphic perspective. The emphasis on "product development, production, and distribution" within the company description highlights the end-to-end nature of the operations this role supports.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers, fashion designers, and external suppliers, to ensure design concepts align with brand identity and product requirements.

• Interpret and translate creative briefs and matrices from various luxury children's wear brands (e.g., Diesel, MM6 Maison Margiela, Marni) into compelling graphic designs.

• Manage multiple design projects concurrently, balancing creative execution with technical specifications and production timelines.

• Prepare technically accurate and print-ready graphic files for a range of applications, including placed prints, allover patterns, embroidery, and appliqués.

• Utilize knowledge of traditional painting and graphic techniques, alongside modern digital tools, to create unique and high-quality visual assets for apparel and accessories.

• Apply understanding of various textile printing techniques to ensure designs are optimized for production and achieve desired aesthetic outcomes.

• Maintain a high level of proactivity, curiosity, flexibility, speed, and precision in all design tasks and project management activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility to "interpret the different requests of the various brands" indicates a need for strong communication and analytical skills to deconstruct brand guidelines and creative direction. The mention of "working simultaneously on multiple projects" underscores the importance of organizational and project management capabilities, crucial for operations in a fast-paced fashion environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, Fashion Design, or a related field is typically expected for this level of creative and technical responsibility.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in graphic design, with a significant portion focused on apparel, fashion, or textile design. Proven experience in preparing technical artwork for print production is essential.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Adobe Photoshop (2022 version or later), Adobe Illustrator (2022 version or later), and Adobe InDesign (2022 version or later). These tools are critical for creating and preparing all graphic assets.

• Demonstrated experience in preparing graphic files for textile applications, including placed prints, allover patterns, embroidery, and appliqués.

• Strong understanding of traditional artistic techniques, including painting and graphic art, and how they can be adapted for digital and print media.

• In-depth knowledge of various textile printing techniques and their technical requirements for design execution.

• Excellent ability to analyze and interpret creative briefs and brand matrices to inform design decisions.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency with 3D design software, specifically Clo 3D, for visualizing and presenting designs in a virtual environment.

• Familiarity with kidswear fashion trends and aesthetics.

• Experience working with luxury brands or in a high-fashion environment.

• Basic understanding of garment construction and manufacturing processes as they relate to graphic application.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of Adobe Creative Suite 2022 versions implies a need for up-to-date software knowledge, reflecting a commitment to current industry standards. The preference for Clo 3D indicates a forward-thinking approach to design visualization within the R&D process, aligning with modern product development workflows.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 5 years of relevant graphic design work, with a strong emphasis on apparel graphics and textile applications.

• Demonstrate expertise in preparing print-ready files for various techniques such as placed prints, allover patterns, embroidery, and appliqués.

• Include case studies or examples that highlight the process of interpreting brand briefs and translating them into successful design outcomes for fashion products.

• Showcase proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, with examples of complex file preparation and manipulation.

Process Documentation:

• Portfolio pieces should ideally illustrate the design process, from initial concept or brief interpretation through to the final, production-ready artwork.

• Examples should demonstrate an understanding of workflow optimization, showing how designs are efficiently prepared and handed off for production.

• Where possible, include examples that show how graphic elements were integrated into the final product, perhaps with mock-ups or photos of the finished garments.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role in R&D within a fashion context, a portfolio that effectively communicates the designer's ability to manage the technical aspects of print and application preparation is as crucial as the creative aesthetic. This includes demonstrating an understanding of file formats, color modes, bleed, and resolution requirements relevant to textile production.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Graphic Designer with 5-10 years of experience in the fashion sector in Italy, particularly in the Veneto region, the estimated gross annual salary range would be between €30,000 and €45,000. This estimate considers the specialized nature of the role, the luxury fashion context, and the required technical skills.

Benefits:

• Standard Italian employment benefits, including paid holidays, social security contributions, and health insurance as per national collective labor agreements.

• Opportunities to work with prestigious international children's wear brands, fostering creative growth and industry exposure.

• Access to company product discounts or employee sales.

• Potential for professional development and training in new design software or techniques relevant to the fashion industry.

• A dynamic and creative work environment within a leading fashion group.

Working Hours: The role is expected to adhere to standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands and company policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on general market data for similar roles in Italy. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's specific experience, portfolio, and negotiation. The benefits listed are typical for Italian employment and the fashion industry; specific details would be confirmed during the hiring process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Fashion & Apparel (Childrenswear)

Company Size: OTB Spa is a significant global luxury fashion group. Brave Kid, as part of OTB, operates within a large corporate structure, likely employing several hundred to over a thousand individuals across its various brands and operations. This size implies structured processes and a professional work environment.

Founded: Brave Kid's experience spans over 30 years in children's wear. OTB Group itself was founded in 2002. This history suggests a company with established expertise, a strong market presence, and a culture that values heritage alongside innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the R&D (Research & Development) department, likely a specialized team focused on product innovation, material sourcing, and design conceptualization.

• The R&D team likely works closely with the core Fashion Design teams for each brand, as well as with Product Management and Production departments.

Methodology:

• Design processes likely involve a blend of creative exploration, trend analysis, and technical execution, driven by seasonal collections and brand-specific requirements.

• Emphasis will be placed on data-driven insights from market trends and consumer preferences within the children's luxury segment.

• Workflow optimization is crucial, ensuring efficient turnaround times from concept to production-ready assets, with a focus on quality and brand consistency.

Company Website: https://careers.otb.net/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's portfolio of high-profile children's wear licenses (Diesel, MM6 Maison Margiela, Marni, etc.) indicates a culture that demands excellence, creativity, and a deep understanding of diverse brand aesthetics. The R&D department's role is to support these established brands, suggesting a need for designers who can adapt to different brand voices while maintaining high standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Senior level within the design operations hierarchy. It requires a solid foundation of technical skills and creative experience, with the expectation of independent work and contribution to project success.

Reporting Structure: The R&D Graphic Designer will likely report to an R&D Manager, Head of Design, or a senior designer within the R&D department. They will collaborate closely with Fashion Designers and Product Managers for specific brand lines.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the visual appeal and marketability of children's apparel and accessories. By creating compelling graphics and ensuring technical accuracy for production, they contribute to product quality, brand consistency, and ultimately, sales performance. Their role bridges the creative vision and the manufacturing reality.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific design areas like textile print design, embroidery design, or 3D fashion design.

• Brand Management: Progress to managing graphic design elements for a specific brand within Brave Kid's portfolio.

• Senior/Lead Designer: Advance to a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role, overseeing junior designers and leading larger creative projects.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Transition into related roles within Product Development, Merchandising, or Brand Marketing, leveraging their design and industry knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in operations roles like this often involves not just creative advancement but also an increased understanding of the supply chain, production processes, and commercial viability, which are key aspects of operational efficiency and strategic contribution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a physical office environment within OTB Spa's facilities in Marostica. The setting is likely a professional creative studio or office space common in the fashion industry.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Marostica, Italy. This location is known for its historical significance and is situated within the Veneto region, a hub for Italian fashion and manufacturing.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be equipped with industry-standard design software and hardware.

• Expect a collaborative environment where designers frequently interact with fashion designers, product managers, and potentially marketing teams.

• The office culture is expected to be professional, fast-paced, and creatively driven, reflecting the demands of the luxury fashion industry.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely Monday to Friday. The fast-paced nature of fashion seasons may sometimes require flexibility to meet project deadlines, particularly during peak collection development periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an on-site role in fashion R&D, the physical environment and proximity to creative teams are significant. The ability to collaborate face-to-face, access physical material samples, and immerse oneself in the brand's creative atmosphere are key aspects of the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and portfolios for basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical/Creative Assessment: Candidates may be asked to complete a design test or present specific portfolio pieces that demonstrate their technical skills (e.g., file preparation for print) and creative approach.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Interviews with the R&D Manager and/or senior designers to assess technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, understanding of brand aesthetics, and collaborative skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially a meeting with higher-level management or HR to discuss the role in broader terms, compensation, and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest work that directly aligns with the job requirements, particularly examples of apparel graphics, textile prints, and technical file preparation.

• Showcase Process: For key pieces, briefly explain your thought process, how you interpreted the brief, and the technical steps taken to prepare the artwork for production.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Include examples that clearly demonstrate your proficiency with Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, especially in creating files suitable for various printing techniques. If you have Clo 3D experience, showcase it.

• Brand Adaptability: If possible, include work that shows your ability to adapt to different brand aesthetics, demonstrating your understanding of luxury children's wear.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether it's a digital PDF or an online platform.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design challenge that might involve creating a graphic element for a specific product or brand, or preparing an existing design for a particular print method.

• Practice articulating your design choices and technical decisions clearly and concisely.

• Familiarize yourself with OTB's brands and the general aesthetic of children's luxury fashion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "preparing graphic files for prints, fabrics, embroidery, applications" means that the portfolio review will likely scrutinize the technical aspects of your work. Candidates should be ready to discuss file specifications, color management, and production considerations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Photoshop: Essential for raster image editing, creating textures, and preparing artwork for various print applications.
  • Adobe Illustrator: Crucial for vector graphics, logos, typography, and creating clean, scalable artwork for placement prints and embroidery.
  • Adobe InDesign: Used for layout and preparing multi-page documents or technical specification sheets, though less central for individual graphic assets compared to PS/AI.

• 3D Design Software (Preferred):

  • Clo 3D: A significant plus for creating realistic 3D garment simulations, visualizing prints on fabric, and aiding in the design feedback loop.

Analytics & Reporting: While not directly a data analysis role, understanding how graphics perform commercially (e.g., best-selling prints) can inform future design choices. Familiarity with sales data or trend reports might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to this creative role, but understanding how product information and designs are managed within PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems might be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator is non-negotiable for this role, as these are the core tools for creating and preparing graphic assets for the fashion industry. The mention of specific versions (2022) implies a need for up-to-date software skills.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to create unique, high-quality designs that resonate with luxury children's wear consumers.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding the distinct aesthetic and values of each licensed brand.

• Excellence & Precision: Commitment to delivering technically accurate and aesthetically pleasing results, with meticulous attention to detail.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency: Managing time and resources effectively to meet demanding production schedules.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative environment where ideas are shared openly, and feedback is integral to the design process.

• Close interaction with fashion designers will be key, requiring strong communication and the ability to interpret and execute their creative visions.

• Working with product managers and suppliers will necessitate clear, concise communication regarding technical specifications and production feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: In a fashion R&D context, collaboration is not just about teamwork but also about translating creative vision into manufacturable products. The designer must be able to bridge the gap between artistic concept and technical execution, often requiring a proactive and communicative approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Brand Diversity: Effectively adapting design style and execution to meet the distinct requirements of multiple luxury children's wear brands.

• Technical Precision: Ensuring all graphic files are technically perfect for various printing and application methods, minimizing errors in production.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Keeping up with seasonal fashion cycles and tight deadlines inherent in the apparel industry.

• Balancing Creativity and Commerciality: Creating designs that are both aesthetically appealing and commercially viable for the target market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Software Proficiency: Deepen skills in Adobe Creative Suite and potentially explore advanced features or related software.

• Textile Print Techniques: Gain a more comprehensive understanding of emerging and traditional textile printing technologies and their creative applications.

• 3D Design: Develop expertise in 3D fashion design tools like Clo 3D for enhanced visualization and product development.

• Industry Trends: Stay abreast of the latest fashion trends, particularly in childrenswear and luxury markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenge of managing multiple brand identities requires a strong understanding of brand strategy and visual communication. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise and expanding creative capabilities within the specialized field of fashion design operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for preparing graphic files for different textile printing techniques (e.g., screen printing, digital printing, embroidery)." (Focus on technical detail and software usage.)

• "How do you approach interpreting a creative brief from a fashion designer, especially when working with multiple brands?" (Highlight communication, analytical skills, and brand awareness.)

• "Can you walk us through a project where you had to balance creative vision with technical production constraints?" (Showcase problem-solving and practical application.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with OTB's childrenswear brands, and how do you see your design style aligning with them?" (Research the brands and articulate your connection.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs from team members or clients?" (Demonstrate openness to feedback and collaborative improvement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-5 key projects that best represent your skills relevant to this role.

• For each project, explain the brief, your design process, the tools used, and the final outcome, paying close attention to the technical aspects of file preparation.

• Be prepared to discuss challenges faced and how you overcame them.

• If you have Clo 3D work, explain how it aided your design process or improved communication with the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely probe your technical understanding of print production. Be ready to discuss concepts like CMYK vs. RGB, vector vs. raster, DPI, color separation, and specific requirements for embroidery or appliqué.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this R&D Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application and resume through the provided careers portal link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features apparel graphics, textile print preparation, and examples showcasing your proficiency with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Tailor your portfolio to highlight experience relevant to fashion and childrenswear.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly list your years of experience, specific software proficiency (mentioning Adobe Creative Suite 2022), and technical skills related to textile printing and file preparation. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with OTB Spa, Brave Kid, and the brands they represent (Diesel, MM6 Maison Margiela, Marni, etc.). Understand their aesthetic and market positioning in children's fashion.

• Technical Readiness: Be prepared to discuss your technical skills in detail during interviews and potentially demonstrate them through a design test or portfolio walkthrough.

⚠️ 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.