RTW Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: RTW Design Director

Company: Canada Goose

Location: Paris, France

Job Type: Full-time, Temporary (6-month contract with possibility of extension)

Category: Fashion Design & Product Development Operations

Date Posted: November 3, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design and execution of Ready-to-Wear (RTW) and selected Mainline apparel collections, ensuring alignment with Canada Goose's brand DNA and strategic vision.

• Lead and mentor a team of designers within the Paris studio, fostering a high-performance culture and driving creative excellence from seasonal concept through to final product.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Product Development, Materials & Innovation, Operations, Sourcing, and Merchandising teams to manage product pipeline deliverables and ensure timely, high-quality product launches.

• Integrate market trends, consumer insights, and technical craftsmanship to develop innovative and commercially viable luxury product assortments that meet sales and global brand growth objectives.

• Manage the design budget, travel, and external collaboration partners to ensure efficient and successful project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core responsibilities are in design, this role is heavily integrated with operations. The "Design Director" title is crucial, but the emphasis on collaboration with Operations, Product Development, Merchandising, and the management of the "Product Pipeline process" firmly places this role within the operational execution of product creation for the luxury apparel market. The role requires a blend of creative vision and rigorous project management to ensure successful Go-To-Market (GTM) strategies for the RTW collections.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the comprehensive design process for all Snow Goose RTW and a curated selection of Mainline styles, ensuring cohesive seasonal narratives.

• Develop and present strong, relevant seasonal concepts under the creative direction of Haider Ackermann, in collaboration with the Collections Vice-President and other design leaders.

• Lead exploratory style-out sessions to define seasonal silhouettes and creative directions, aligned with the overarching vision of the Creative Director.

• Organize and lead all design meetings with the Creative Director in the Paris studio, ensuring clear communication and alignment.

• Conduct and lead sketches explanations, fittings, and debriefs with the development team to ensure precise execution of design elements, maintaining concept coherence and brand strategy.

• Integrate contemporary market trends, consumer feedback, and performance requirements into the design process to drive relevance and innovation.

• Foster strong partnerships with Marketing and Merchandising teams to ensure designs support brand image and business objectives, contributing to sales growth.

• Collaborate closely with the Materials department to source and develop high-quality fabrics and trims that align with seasonal aesthetics and performance standards.

• Proactively manage and drive calendar deliverables within the Product Pipeline process, ensuring deadlines are met and key milestones are achieved for efficient Go-To-Market execution.

• Travel to vendors and attend trade shows as necessary to lead product research, development, and sourcing initiatives.

• Provide project management and executional leadership to direct reports, ensuring the highest standard of product execution.

• Engage and communicate effectively with external collaboration partners, designers, and contract consultants to ensure project alignment and success.

• Support product storytelling by developing compelling narrative content that enhances brand communication and consumer engagement.

• Maintain product continuity and consistency in innovation and brand image throughout the entire product lifecycle.

• Oversee and manage the Design budget, ensuring alignment with departmental and corporate objectives, including all purchases, vintage acquisitions, and travel expenses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed clearly indicate a need for strong operational oversight within the design function. Managing "calendar deliverables within the Product Pipeline process," "project management and executional leadership of direct reports," and "overseeing and managing the Design budget" are all core operational functions critical to bringing a collection to market successfully. The integration with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing further underscores the operational nature of this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree (BA Hons or equivalent) in Fashion Design. Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in Outerwear & Apparel Design, with a strong focus on luxury fashion.

• Proven track record in managing design teams and leading complex projects from initial concept through to final execution and Go-To-Market readiness.

• Demonstrated expertise in apparel product construction, finishes, and embellishments, particularly within the outerwear segment.

• High level of expertise in fabric and trim selection, sourcing, and development, understanding their impact on quality, performance, and aesthetics.

• Prior experience with Product Life Cycle Management (PLM) systems is required for efficient product data management and workflow tracking. Required Skills:

• Exceptional creative vision and ability to translate brand DNA into compelling seasonal collections.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire, mentor, and guide a team of designers effectively.

• Excellent presentation skills, capable of articulating design concepts and final product details to diverse, cross-functional audiences.

• High proficiency in essential design software: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for reporting, planning, and communication.

• Deep understanding of global fashion trends, consumer behavior, and the competitive luxury landscape.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, essential for cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management.

• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and drive departmental and corporate objectives forward.

• High level of professionalism and discretion when handling confidential information. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with performance apparel and technical outerwear design.

• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives and ethical sourcing practices in the fashion industry.

• Experience working with external collaboration partners and contract consultants.

• Ability to contribute to compelling product storytelling and narrative content development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for PLM system experience and the emphasis on managing "calendar deliverables within the Product Pipeline process" highlight the operational execution aspect of this role. The need for strong cross-functional collaboration with Product Development, Operations, and Merchandising is paramount for successful GTM.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a strong history of successful outerwear and apparel collections, demonstrating a clear evolution of design from concept to market.

• Detailed case studies of past projects that highlight the candidate's ability to manage the end-to-end design process, including research, concept development, material selection, and collaboration with development teams.

• Visual documentation of design execution, including technical sketches, detailed renderings, and fabric/trim swatches that exemplify an understanding of product construction and aesthetic detail.

• Evidence of leadership in design projects, showcasing the ability to guide a team, manage workflows, and meet critical deadlines within a product development lifecycle.

• Examples of how market trends, consumer insights, and brand DNA were integrated into design decisions, demonstrating strategic thinking beyond pure aesthetics. Process Documentation:

• Showcase understanding of product development workflows, from initial seasonal concept ideation through to final sample approval and production handover.

• Illustrate experience in managing design calendars and adhering to critical path timelines, demonstrating an ability to meet Go-To-Market objectives.

• Examples of how design decisions are informed by and communicated to cross-functional teams such as Merchandising, Product Development, Operations, and Sourcing to ensure alignment and efficiency.

• Documentation of how feedback from fittings, market analysis, and sales performance is integrated back into the design process for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Director role with significant operational integration, a portfolio must go beyond purely aesthetic presentations. It needs to demonstrate an understanding of the product development lifecycle, workflow management, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to deliver collections on time and to specification. This is crucial for a role that bridges creative vision with operational execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €150,000.00 - €180,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Total Rewards Program: A comprehensive and competitive compensation package designed to support employee well-being and financial security.

• Goose Rewards & ICON Rewards: Programs designed for peer recognition and acknowledgment of exceptional contributions, fostering a culture of appreciation.

• CG Gives Program: Includes donation matching and paid volunteer time, empowering employees to support causes they care about and contribute to the community.

• Health & Well-being Resources: Access to tools and resources aimed at supporting physical and mental health, promoting resilience and overall well-being.

• Career Growth Opportunities: Access to numerous internal and external programs designed to facilitate career advancement and professional development.

• Inspiring Work Environment: Work alongside inspiring leaders and colleagues who are committed to mentorship and professional growth.

Working Hours:

• Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and seasonal demands inherent in the fashion industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is for a senior-level, contract position in a high-cost-of-living city like Paris, within the luxury fashion sector. This is a competitive offering for a director-level role requiring significant experience and leadership. The benefits listed are standard for a corporate role but are framed within Canada Goose's specific culture and values.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Apparel & Outerwear

Company Size: Canada Goose is a well-established global brand, indicating a company size that supports robust operational structures and cross-functional teams, likely in the range of 1,000-5,000 employees. This size allows for significant impact while maintaining a dedicated team environment.

Founded: Canada Goose was founded in 1957, signifying a rich heritage and deep-rooted expertise in performance outerwear and a strong brand identity built over decades. This history informs its commitment to quality, durability, and iconic design.

Team Structure:

• The RTW Design team in Paris will likely be a specialized unit, reporting up through a Collections Vice-President or similar senior creative leadership.

• This Director will manage a team of designers, acting as a key liaison between creative vision and the broader Product Development, Operations, and Merchandising functions.

• Collaboration is expected to be extensive with global teams, particularly those involved in product lifecycle management, sourcing, and manufacturing. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creativity is paramount, the role emphasizes integrating market trends, consumer feedback, and business objectives, suggesting a data-informed approach to design.

• Process Optimization: The emphasis on managing the "Product Pipeline process" and "calendar deliverables" points to a structured, efficient workflow designed to meet Go-To-Market timelines.

• Collaborative Innovation: The role requires close partnership with Materials & Innovation, suggesting a culture that values exploring new materials and technologies to enhance product performance and design.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Canada Goose's heritage as a performance-first brand that has successfully transitioned into a luxury lifestyle icon is crucial. This dual focus on technical capability and high-fashion appeal will heavily influence design decisions and operational priorities. The Paris studio likely serves as a hub for translating this brand identity into contemporary fashion-forward collections.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role, equivalent to a Director level within a specialized function (Design). It sits at the intersection of creative direction and operational execution, requiring a strategic mindset and the ability to manage significant operational workflows within the product development lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The RTW Design Director will report to a senior creative leader (e.g., Collections Vice-President, Creative Director) and will manage a team of designers. They will also have strong dotted-line reporting or collaborative relationships with heads of Product Development, Merchandising, Operations, and Sourcing to ensure seamless product creation and delivery.

Operations Impact: The Director's operations impact is significant, as their design direction and execution directly influence product quality, time-to-market, cost of goods, and ultimately, sales performance and brand perception within the competitive luxury market. Effective management of the design process is critical to Canada Goose's GTM success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to expand leadership scope within Canada Goose's design or product creation functions, or to transition into broader product strategy roles.

• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to influence the long-term design direction and product innovation strategy for a globally recognized luxury brand.

• Cross-Functional Mastery: Deepen expertise in product development operations, merchandising strategies, and supply chain dynamics through close collaboration.

• Brand Stewardship: Play a key role in shaping the brand's evolving aesthetic and its appeal to new global luxury consumers.

• Contract Extension/Full-Time Conversion: Possibility of the contract being extended or converting to a permanent full-time role based on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as a critical operational leader within the creative department, directly impacting the company's ability to execute its product strategy. This offers significant growth potential for individuals looking to leverage design expertise within a broader operational and strategic context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in the Paris Studio, suggesting a creative and collaborative workspace designed for design and concept development. It is likely a hybrid environment, blending focused individual work with collaborative sessions.

Office Location(s): 3 Rue Tronchet, Paris, 75008 France. This central Paris location offers a vibrant and accessible working environment within a key fashion capital.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The Paris studio will serve as a central point for design ideation, concept exploration, and team collaboration, likely featuring mood boards, sample areas, and meeting spaces.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), PLM systems, and potentially advanced visualization tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with the direct design team, as well as cross-functional partners from Product Development, Merchandising, and Operations, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected, but the role will require flexibility to meet seasonal demands, critical deadlines within the product pipeline, and to accommodate global team interactions. This may include occasional early mornings or late evenings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Paris studio setting implies a dynamic, creative, and internationally-focused work environment. The operational aspect means that while creativity is key, efficiency and timely delivery within this collaborative space are paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess relevant experience, design aesthetic, and leadership capabilities.

• Creative & Operational Assessment: This stage will likely involve a deeper dive into your portfolio, focusing on specific projects that demonstrate your ability to manage design from concept to execution, your understanding of product construction, and your experience with cross-functional collaboration. Expect discussions around your approach to managing design calendars and working with Product Development and Operations.

• Leadership & Team Fit: Interviews with senior leadership to assess your leadership style, team management approach, and cultural fit within Canada Goose's values. You may be asked to present a case study or discuss how you foster a high-performance design culture.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from Merchandising, Product Development, and potentially Operations to evaluate your ability to collaborate effectively and understand their respective roles in the product lifecycle.

• Final Interview: A concluding interview with a senior executive to discuss strategic alignment and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process, Not Just Product: For each project, detail your role, the challenges faced, your design process, how you collaborated with other departments (especially development, operations, and merchandising), and the final outcome and its impact.

• Highlight Operational Integration: Clearly demonstrate your understanding of product development timelines, PLM systems, fabric sourcing, and manufacturing considerations. Include examples where your design decisions were influenced by or influenced operational constraints or opportunities.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to illustrate the success of your designs (e.g., sales performance, market reception, efficiency improvements in the design-to-production handover).

• Tailor to Canada Goose: Research Canada Goose's brand DNA, heritage, and recent collections. Ensure your portfolio reflects an understanding of their aesthetic, commitment to performance, and luxury positioning.

• Present with Clarity: Be prepared to articulate your creative vision and the operational rationale behind your design choices concisely and compellingly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a potential design challenge or a detailed case study presentation that requires you to outline a seasonal concept, consider material sourcing, and discuss how you would manage the project timeline and collaborate with other teams to bring it to fruition.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to managing a design team, resolving creative conflicts, and ensuring alignment with broader business objectives.

• Familiarize yourself with Canada Goose's current product lines and their competitive landscape to demonstrate informed insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the operational depth of this role, interviewers will be looking for evidence of robust project management skills, cross-functional collaboration capabilities, and a clear understanding of how design integrates with the entire product lifecycle, from concept to market. A portfolio that highlights these aspects will be highly advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign are essential for sketching, rendering, mood boards, and presentation materials.

• Product Life Cycle Management (PLM) System: Prior experience with a PLM system is required. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency and how they leverage PLM for design tracking, data management, and workflow coordination.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for reporting, data analysis, budget management, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analyst role, proficiency in interpreting sales data, market trend reports, and consumer insights is expected. The ability to translate this data into actionable design strategies is key. CRM & Automation:

• While direct CRM/automation tool usage might be limited for a design director, an understanding of how these systems impact sales, merchandising, and customer feedback loops is beneficial for informing design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for PLM system experience is a strong indicator of the operational focus. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is standard for design, but the ability to integrate these tools with PLM and other operational systems is crucial for efficiency and effective communication within the product pipeline.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Craftsmanship: A commitment to the highest quality in both design and product execution, reflecting Canada Goose's heritage in performance and luxury.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A strong emphasis on working effectively with cross-functional teams (Product Development, Operations, Merchandising, Marketing) to achieve collective goals.

• Innovation & Agility: A drive to explore new design concepts, materials, and technologies while maintaining brand integrity and adapting to market dynamics.

• Integrity & Authenticity: Upholding the brand's core values and storytelling, ensuring designs are true to Canada Goose's DNA and purpose.

• Efficiency & Accountability: A focus on managing projects effectively, meeting deadlines, and taking ownership of outcomes within the product creation process.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where designers work closely with Product Developers, Material Specialists, Operations Managers, and Merchandisers throughout the entire product lifecycle.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, constructive feedback, and proactive problem-solving across departments.

• Shared Vision: A collective effort to translate the brand's vision and seasonal concepts into successful, market-ready products.

📝 Enhancement Note: Canada Goose's emphasis on "belonging," "empathy," and "authentic selves" suggests a supportive, inclusive, and purpose-driven work environment. For a Design Director, this translates to leading a team with a focus on empowerment and collaborative problem-solving, while also ensuring operational alignment with the company's broader mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Operational Constraints: Effectively translating a high-fashion creative vision into commercially viable products that meet production timelines, quality standards, and budget requirements.

• Managing Global Supply Chain Dynamics: Navigating the complexities of international sourcing, manufacturing, and logistics to ensure timely and high-quality product delivery.

• Maintaining Brand DNA in a Evolving Market: Continuously innovating and adapting designs to appeal to a global luxury audience while staying true to Canada Goose's core heritage of performance and durability.

• Leading a Contract Team: Motivating and guiding a team effectively within a defined contract period, ensuring consistent performance and knowledge transfer.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless communication and collaboration between design, product development, operations, merchandising, and marketing to achieve unified product launch strategies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Luxury Operations: Gain in-depth experience managing the operational intricacies of bringing high-end fashion products to market within a world-renowned brand.

• Strategic Product Pipeline Management: Enhance skills in managing complex product development cycles, critical path timelines, and cross-functional dependencies.

• Brand Evolution and Strategy: Contribute to shaping the future aesthetic and product innovation of an iconic lifestyle brand.

• International Market Exposure: Work within a global context, understanding diverse market needs and consumer preferences.

• Leadership Development: Further hone leadership and team-building skills within a dynamic and creative environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The contract nature of this role presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Candidates need to demonstrate immediate impact and operational proficiency, while also recognizing the potential for extended engagement or leverageable experience for future roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a seasonal RTW collection, from initial concept to final handover for production. How do you ensure alignment with the brand's DNA and commercial objectives?" (Focus on integrating creative vision with operational steps, cross-functional collaboration, and timeline management).

• "Walk us through a challenging project where you had to balance a strong creative vision with significant operational or production constraints. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?" (Highlight problem-solving, compromise, and operational awareness).

• "How do you approach leading and mentoring a design team to foster innovation while ensuring adherence to deadlines and quality standards?" (Emphasize leadership style, team motivation, and operational accountability). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Canada Goose's brand and its position in the luxury market? How do you see your design philosophy aligning with our heritage and future direction?" (Showcase research and genuine interest).

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate closely with Product Development, Operations, or Merchandising teams. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful alignment?" (Demonstrate cross-functional collaboration skills).

• "How do you stay current with global fashion trends, consumer behavior, and emerging technologies in apparel design and production?" (Highlight continuous learning and market awareness). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your presentation logically, starting with an overview of your design philosophy and how it aligns with Canada Goose. Then, present 2-3 key projects that best showcase your range, leadership, and operational understanding.

• Tell the Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the creative exploration, the material and construction choices, the collaborative process with other departments, and the final results. Use visuals effectively.

• Emphasize Operational Integration: Specifically call out how you managed timelines, worked with PLM systems, collaborated with sourcing and production, and ensured designs were feasible and met quality standards.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, material sourcing, production challenges, and your leadership approach. Practice concise and confident answers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who is not only a strong creative leader but also a highly effective operational manager within the design function. Demonstrating an understanding of the entire product lifecycle, from ideation to market delivery, will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this RTW Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Canada Goose Careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your extensive experience in outerwear and apparel design, specifically emphasizing leadership in managing design teams and projects from concept to execution. Showcase projects that demonstrate your understanding of product construction, fabric sourcing, and working with PLM systems.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience, leadership accomplishments, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and PLM, and your ability to collaborate with Product Development, Operations, and Merchandising teams. Use keywords relevant to luxury fashion design and product lifecycle management.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, leadership philosophy, and how you integrate creative vision with operational realities. Prepare specific examples that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex projects under tight deadlines. Be ready to discuss your understanding of Canada Goose's brand and market position.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Canada Goose's brand heritage, current collections, target market, and any recent news or initiatives. Pay attention to their commitment to quality, performance, and their expansion into the luxury fashion space. Understand their values related to sustainability and community.

⚠️ 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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