Senior Design Manager, Apparel

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager, Apparel

Company: Pendleton Woolen Mills Inc

Location: Portland, OR, US

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Apparel Design & Product Development Management

Date Posted: May 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creative vision and execution for Pendleton's core apparel categories, including knitwear, wovens, outerwear, and sweaters for both Men's and Women's divisions.

• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of apparel designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing creative environment that drives innovation and quality.

• Ensure a cohesive expression of Pendleton's brand heritage, craftsmanship, and evolving consumer relevance across all product lines through strategic design direction and cross-functional alignment.

• Oversee the entire design process from concept to finalized tech packs, ensuring timely delivery, adherence to brand standards, and commercial viability in partnership with Product Management, Development, and Mill teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager, focusing on leading a creative team and driving product strategy within a heritage apparel brand. While the original job title was "Senior Design Manager, Apparel," the description strongly implies a leadership role with significant responsibility for product creation, team management, and cross-functional collaboration, aligning it with senior-level operational and strategic functions within a product development lifecycle. The emphasis on "product creation across all categories" and "leading and shaping the future of our product creation" points to a strategic role within the product development operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end creative development and execution of apparel collections for Men's and Women's divisions, encompassing knitwear, wovens, outerwear, and sweaters.

• Translate seasonal brand vision, market trends, and consumer insights into compelling, cohesive, and commercially successful product assortments.

• Define and drive design direction for silhouette, fabrication, color palette, and detailing, ensuring alignment with Pendleton's heritage, quality standards, and contemporary consumer appeal.

• Oversee and mentor apparel design teams, providing clear creative direction, constructive feedback, and performance management to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

• Manage the design calendar and workflow, ensuring all design milestones and deliverables are met on time and with meticulous attention to detail throughout the product development lifecycle.

• Collaborate closely with Product Management to ensure design briefs are fulfilled regarding cost targets, business objectives, and market needs.

• Partner with Materials, Development, and Mill Technical Design teams to innovate on fabrics, trims, and construction techniques, ensuring design integrity and manufacturability.

• Ensure a consistent and strong brand voice and storytelling across all apparel categories, working in conjunction with Brand Creative and other category leads (Home, Accessories).

• Maintain a deep understanding of Pendleton's brand DNA and archival resources, leveraging them as a foundation for innovative yet authentic design direction.

• Conduct ongoing research into market trends, competitor activities, material innovations, and construction techniques to inform design strategies and drive product relevance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are comprehensive and reflect a senior management role in product development operations. The emphasis on leading teams, managing workflows, cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring commercial success indicates a strong operational component beyond pure creative design. This role requires strategic planning, process management, and performance oversight, typical of operations-focused management positions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in apparel design, with a significant portion of that time spent in leadership or management roles overseeing multiple apparel categories.

• Demonstrated success in leading and developing creative teams, fostering a collaborative and productive design environment.

Required Skills:

• Creative Leadership & Vision: Ability to set and articulate a compelling design direction that aligns with brand identity and market trends.

• Apparel Design Expertise: Deep knowledge and practical experience across knitwear, wovens, outerwear, and sweaters categories.

• Team Management & Development: Proven ability to lead, mentor, inspire, and manage design teams to achieve high performance.

• Technical Design Proficiency: Strong skills in advanced sketching, CAD software, and oversight of technical pack creation for accuracy and completeness.

• Product Development Lifecycle Management: Comprehensive understanding of apparel construction, materials, trims, fit, costing, and the end-to-end product development process.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Exceptional ability to partner effectively with Product Management, Development, Materials, Sales, and Marketing teams.

• Calendar & Workflow Management: Expertise in managing design timelines, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring on-time delivery of all design deliverables.

• Brand Heritage & DNA Understanding: Ability to deeply understand and apply brand heritage and archival elements to contemporary design.

• Market Trend Analysis: Strong awareness of current and emerging fashion trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscapes.

• Exceptional Organizational Skills: Meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational capabilities, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with heritage or legacy brands with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and storytelling.

• Familiarity with sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices.

• Experience collaborating with international manufacturing partners.

• Proficiency in specific design software beyond basic CAD, such as Adobe Creative Suite.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize not only creative talent but also strong operational and managerial competencies. The need for technical design proficiency, calendar management, and cross-functional collaboration highlights the operational rigor expected in this senior role, fitting the profile for operations-focused candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Leadership Examples: Showcase examples of leading design teams, setting creative direction, and overseeing the development of cohesive collections across multiple categories.

• Product Development Case Studies: Present detailed case studies of successful product launches, highlighting your role in concept development, execution, cross-functional collaboration, and commercial success.

• Technical Design Demonstration: Include examples of comprehensive sketch packets and technically accurate tech packs that demonstrate a deep understanding of apparel construction, fit, and material application.

• Brand Integration Examples: Provide evidence of how you have successfully translated brand heritage and DNA into modern, relevant product assortments.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow Optimization: Demonstrate experience in establishing and refining design workflows to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and timely delivery of all design assets.

• Cross-Functional Process Integration: Illustrate how you have successfully integrated design processes with Product Management, Development, Materials, and Mill teams to streamline product creation and minimize bottlenecks.

• Performance Measurement: Explain how you track and measure the success of design initiatives, including team performance, product sell-through, and alignment with business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior design management role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display creative output but also demonstrate operational prowess in process management, team leadership, and cross-functional integration within the product development lifecycle. This section emphasizes the need to showcase strategic thinking and execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company match to support long-term financial planning.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to promote work-life balance.

• Employee Discount: Significant discounts on Pendleton products, reflecting the brand's quality and heritage.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, workshops, and industry event attendance.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week. The role requires on-site presence in Portland, OR, with potential for some flexibility depending on project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry benchmarks for senior design management roles in the Portland, OR area, considering the experience level and the nature of the apparel industry. The benefits listed are common for established companies in this sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Apparel Manufacturing and Retail, with a strong focus on heritage textiles and timeless design. Pendleton Woolen Mills is renowned for its rich history dating back to 1863, emphasizing quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship.

Company Size: Pendleton Woolen Mills is a medium-sized company, suggesting a structure that allows for significant impact and visibility for individuals, while also having established processes and resources. This size often fosters a culture where employees can feel a strong connection to the brand's legacy and mission.

Founded: 1863, highlighting a deep-rooted heritage and a long-standing commitment to quality and tradition.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: This role sits within the Design department, reporting to the Senior Director of Design. The Senior Design Manager will lead a team of apparel designers.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role requires extensive collaboration with Product Management, Product Development, Materials Sourcing, Mill Technical Design, Brand Creative, Sales, and potentially Marketing teams.

• Reporting Hierarchy: Likely reports to a VP or Senior Director of Design, with direct reports being Design Managers or individual Designers.

Methodology:

• Heritage-Driven Innovation: The company's approach integrates its historical legacy with contemporary market demands, focusing on authentic storytelling and enduring quality.

• Process-Oriented Development: A structured product development process is essential, balancing creative vision with operational rigor, calendar adherence, and quality control.

• Collaborative Environment: Emphasis on teamwork and open communication across departments to ensure cohesive product creation and brand expression.

Company Website: https://www.pendleton-usa.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Pendleton's heritage and its commitment to quality is crucial. The company culture likely values craftsmanship, authenticity, and a strong connection to its Western roots, which should be reflected in the design approach and team dynamics.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior management position within the product development operations. It requires a blend of creative leadership, team management, and operational execution. The scope includes strategic input into product assortment, process oversight, and cross-functional alignment, positioning it as a key operational leader in the design function.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to the Senior Director of Design, overseeing a team of apparel designers. This structure indicates a significant level of responsibility for operational execution and team performance within the broader design department.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on revenue through the creation of commercially successful apparel collections. Effective management of the design process, team performance, and cross-functional collaboration directly influences product quality, time-to-market, cost efficiency, and brand perception, all critical operational outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance to Senior Director of Design or VP of Design roles, taking on broader strategic responsibilities for the entire product portfolio.

• Category Expansion: Opportunity to expand influence over additional product categories or lead new product initiatives within the apparel division.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to further optimize design and product development processes, enhancing efficiency and collaboration across departments.

• Brand Stewardship: Become a key custodian of the Pendleton brand's design integrity and future evolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step in a career path focused on product development operations and creative leadership within the apparel industry. The emphasis on process, team management, and cross-functional collaboration points to substantial growth potential beyond traditional design roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Portland, OR. Pendleton Woolen Mills likely offers a professional office environment that balances creative studios with collaborative workspaces.

Office Location(s): Portland, Oregon. This location offers a vibrant city environment with a strong connection to the Pacific Northwest's aesthetic and outdoor culture, which aligns well with the Pendleton brand.

Workspace Context:

• Creative Studio: Access to design studios equipped for sketching, mood board creation, and potentially digital design tools.

• Collaborative Zones: Spaces designed for team meetings, cross-functional reviews, and brainstorming sessions.

• Brand Immersion: Proximity to the company's heritage archives and a workplace that likely embodies the brand's values of quality and craftsmanship.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours (e.g., 9 AM - 5 PM, Monday to Friday) are expected, with flexibility often afforded for project deadlines and team needs. The on-site requirement is crucial for hands-on team leadership and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Portland is key. Candidates should be prepared for a collaborative, in-person work environment that supports the hands-on nature of design management and team interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and conduct an initial screening for basic qualifications.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Senior Director of Design to assess creative vision, leadership style, technical expertise, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where the candidate presents their portfolio, showcasing design work, leadership examples, and process management capabilities. This is a critical stage for demonstrating operational thinking.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from Product Management, Development, and potentially other departments to evaluate collaboration skills and understanding of the broader product lifecycle.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or executive team members for a final assessment of strategic alignment and leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate leadership, process management, and successful outcomes across knitwear, wovens, and outerwear.

• Highlight Process: For each project, explain your role in the design process, how you managed your team, how you collaborated cross-functionally, and how you ensured timely delivery and quality.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics (e.g., sell-through rates, cost savings, on-time delivery improvements) to demonstrate the commercial and operational impact of your work.

• Showcase Brand Understanding: Clearly articulate how your designs reflect and evolve the Pendleton brand heritage.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your leadership philosophy, how you handle design challenges, and your approach to team development and cross-functional collaboration.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates may be asked to prepare a design concept for a specific product or category, or to present a plan for improving a particular aspect of the design process.

• Focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of operational constraints and opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely scrutinize both creative talent and operational management skills. A strong portfolio that emphasizes process, collaboration, and measurable results will be essential for candidates to stand out.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for sketching, technical drawings, and visual presentations. Experience with CAD systems specific to apparel design is highly valued.

• PLM Systems: Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software for managing product data, specifications, and workflows is often expected in senior roles.

• Project Management Tools: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for managing team tasks, timelines, and project progress.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary data analytics role, understanding how to interpret sales data, market trend reports, and sell-through performance to inform design decisions is crucial.

CRM & Automation:

• Less direct involvement with CRM, but understanding how design decisions impact sales channels and consumer engagement is beneficial.

• Awareness of automation opportunities within design and product development workflows to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a design-focused role, proficiency in design software and familiarity with PLM systems are critical operational tools. The ability to leverage data and project management tools to drive efficiency and collaboration is also a key expectation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Quality: A deep respect for the materials and processes that result in durable, well-made products, reflecting Pendleton's heritage.

• Authenticity & Heritage: Commitment to honoring the brand's history and values in all design decisions and product executions.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Emphasis on strong working relationships and open communication across departments to achieve shared goals.

• Efficiency & Discipline: A focus on organized processes, timely execution, and accountability to meet business objectives and deadlines.

• Innovation within Tradition: Encouraging new ideas and approaches that build upon, rather than detract from, the brand's established identity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively seeking input and fostering strong partnerships with Product Management, Development, Materials, and Mill teams to ensure seamless product creation.

• Constructive Feedback Loop: Encouraging an environment where constructive feedback is given and received openly among team members and cross-functional partners to enhance product quality and processes.

• Shared Vision: Working to align all stakeholders around a common seasonal vision and product strategy, ensuring everyone is working towards the same objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely values a blend of creative expression rooted in heritage and a disciplined, collaborative approach to product development operations. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these values and how they translate into daily work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Heritage with Modernity: Continuously innovating and staying relevant for contemporary consumers while staying true to Pendleton's deep heritage and established brand identity.

• Managing Diverse Categories: Overseeing design direction across distinct product types (knitwear, wovens, outerwear) requires broad expertise and the ability to maintain cohesive brand expression.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless collaboration and communication between Design, Product Management, Development, and Mill teams to navigate complex product lifecycles and timelines.

• Team Development & Motivation: Leading and inspiring a creative team through seasonal pressures and evolving market demands, fostering growth and maintaining high performance.

• Operational Efficiency: Streamlining design processes, managing calendars effectively, and ensuring timely deliverables in a fast-paced environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Strategic Design Leadership: Deepen expertise in setting long-term design strategy and brand vision.

• Advanced Materials & Construction: Explore cutting-edge materials and innovative manufacturing techniques relevant to heritage apparel.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participate in company-sponsored training focused on management, strategic planning, and operational excellence.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to attend relevant trade shows, conferences, and workshops to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle significant challenges in brand evolution and operational efficiency within a respected heritage company, offering substantial professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing the seasonal design direction for Pendleton apparel, balancing our heritage with current market trends?" (Focus on your process for research, trend integration, and brand DNA application.)

• "Describe your experience leading and developing a team of designers. What is your philosophy on creative mentorship and performance management?" (Highlight your leadership style, team-building strategies, and approach to feedback.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What appeals to you about Pendleton's brand heritage and commitment to craftsmanship?" (Show genuine interest and understanding of the brand's legacy.)

• "How do you see your design leadership style fitting into a company with a strong, established heritage like Pendleton?" (Connect your approach to their values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by category (knitwear, wovens, outerwear) and highlight key projects that showcase leadership, process management, and commercial success.

• Tell the Story: For each project, articulate the brief, your strategic approach, the challenges faced (especially operational ones), how you collaborated with other teams, and the final outcome (including sales performance if possible).

• Emphasize Process & Operations: Clearly explain your role in managing the design workflow, creating tech packs, collaborating with development, and ensuring timely execution.

• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality images and clear, concise descriptions. Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of the garments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss not only their design aesthetic but also their strategic approach to managing teams, processes, and cross-functional relationships within the product development lifecycle.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager, Apparel position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP portal link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of apparel design experience, specifically mentioning leadership roles, expertise in knitwear, wovens, outerwear, and sweaters, and experience with technical design, CAD, and PLM systems. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a robust portfolio that demonstrates your leadership capabilities, creative vision, technical proficiency, and ability to manage the design and development process effectively. Ensure it includes examples of cross-functional collaboration and successful product launches.

• Research Pendleton: Familiarize yourself with Pendleton's history, brand values, product lines, and recent collections. Understand their commitment to heritage, quality, and craftsmanship.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer questions related to design strategy, team leadership, operational processes, and cross-functional collaboration, using specific examples from your experience.

⚠️ 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.