JOB DESCRIPTION

 A&F Apparel Designers create high quality, aspirational product for each of our unique lifestyle brands.  The designer's role at A&F is to take the product from initial concept through the production of the garment.  Designers stay on top of emerging trends through shopping the market, researching vintage, and staying in tune with our customers.  This creative research fuels the big picture trend and mood direction at the beginning of each season. Designers focus on every aspect of product development, from fabric and trim selection to editing how the garment fits on live models. 

This job is located at our Global Home Office in Columbus, Ohio.  

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING?

• Driving comprehensive design processes by creating concept boards, sketches and illustrations for each product season 

• Taking a deep dive into the global customer mindset through market, field & relevant social research  

• Exploring and researching emerging trends in the global market to deliver product that is aligned with the customer and market landscape 

• Supporting the product development process from initial sketch to finished product  

• Influencing aesthetic and fit direction for your product category 

• Collaborating with cross-functional teams with an action-oriented, positive and proactive mindset 

• Presenting designs to senior leadership as relevant to customer needs and market trends 

• Managing design workflow and deadlines within a fast-paced and collaborative environment

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BRING?

• Bachelor’s Degree in fashion/apparel design or relevant field  

• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA 

• A portfolio is required with application  

• Strong computer skills in Illustrator/PLM preferred 

• Passion for the A&F brands, the role, and an interest in specialty retail 

• Solid technical skills with an impeccable taste level and eye for trend 

• Ability to identify and interpret relevant fashion trends into the brand handwriting  

• A strong curiosity and confidence to push boundaries and bring new ideas to the table 

• Detail-oriented with the ability to adapt and work in a fast-paced, structured environment 

• Career-driven, strong work ethic and proven resiliency  

• A collaborative approach to working with cross-functional partners to achieve the vision of the brand 

• Strong presentation skills and the ability to communicate confidently 

• Desire to learn & hunger for more!

Based out of our world headquarters in Columbus, OH the A&F Leadership Development Programs are highly competitive initiatives that offer immediate exposure to senior level management, as well as a carefully crafted balance between classroom sessions and hands-on experience. With a “promote from within” mentality in mind, these programs have been designed to shape top candidates into the future leaders of our company. The Leadership Development Programs feature an initial comprehensive training program up to five weeks long and continued career development through a custom curriculum.

This comprehensive orientation program will include:

•        Combination of classroom sessions and on-the-job training

•        Relationship with a Mentor to guide learning in the new role

•        Interactive presentations from a variety of senior leaders in the company

•        Open and inclusive learning environment with fellow associates

•        Integrated social activities to help transition to Columbus and the unique corporate culture at A&F

•        Preparation to effectively manage a portion of the business in one of our critical areas at Home Office

First year compensation for the A&F Leadership Development Program in Apparel Design starts at $53,500. Other benefits include $8,000 in placement and relocation bonuses, merchandise discounts at all of our brands, use of the A&F gym, industry-leading healthcare coverage, and company matching savings and retirement programs.

OUR COMPANY

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (A&F Co.) is a global retailer of five iconic, omnichannel lifestyle brands catering to the kid through millennial customer: Abercrombie & Fitch, abercrombie kids, Hollister, Gilly Hicks and Social Tourist. At A&F Co., we’re here for our associates, customers and communities on the journey to being and becoming who they are - and because no journey is the same, we strive to create an inclusive culture, where everyone is free to share ideas. 

OUR VALUES

We lead with purpose and always put our people first, which is evidenced by our Great Place to Work™ Certification, as well as being a 2021 recipient of Fortune’s Best Workplaces in Retail, and named a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality by the Human Rights Campaign for 16 consecutive years. We’re proud to offer equitable compensation and benefits, [including flexibility and competitive Paid Time Off], as well as education and engagement events, including various Associate Resource Groups, volunteer opportunities and additional time off to give back to our global communities. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is a portfolio of global lifestyle brands (Abercrombie & Fitch Co., abercrombie kids, Hollister, and Gilly Hicks) that share a commitment to offering products of enduring quality and exceptional comfort – allowing consumers around the world to express their own individuality and style. The company operates approximately 850 stores under these brands across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, as well as the e-commerce sites www.abercrombie.com and www.hollisterco.com.