Job Description

Roots is more than just an iconic Canadian retailer, we are a group of passionate employees who act with integrity, trust each other and do what is right. We work in a space where people can grow and develop, with a team of people who own results and are dedicated to seeing Roots win. We seek to build longstanding relationships with partners who share our commitment to maintaining high ethical standards of operation.

We are currently seeking a Director, Design \xe2\x80\x93 Accessories and Leather who can be nice, will seek inspiration from our roots, can commit to achieving results the right way and loves to think big to join us on our journey.
The Director, Design \xe2\x80\x93 Accessories and Leather will manage and create key product assortments according to the category line plans, which align with the Roots brand, overarching product strategy, customer needs and the seasonal concept direction. The Leather Factory, and the leather products Roots creates have been at the heart of the Roots brand since our inception. Creating iconic products that embody a comfortable cabin-meets-city style.

Reporting to the Senior Director, Design, the Director, Design \xe2\x80\x93 Accessories and Leather and will be responsible for and evaluated on the following:

• Lead and provide guidance to the leather design & accessories team while ensuring organizational objectives are met.
• Collaborate with leaders in other key revenue driving functions and deliver the Global Product Strategy for the leather and accessories business.
• Integrate the Global Product Strategy into the marketing plan and seasonal product calendar to support leather sales and category growth, as well as ensuring that key calendar deadlines are achieved.
• Direct team members to deliver an exciting and innovative assortment of leather and accessories products that are in line with targets and achieve outlined sales targets.
• With the International team, set a strategy to accelerate leather sales outside of Canada.
• Interpret big ideas and contribute towards seasonal brand trends and colour as established by Senior Creative partners.
• Visit leather makers and tanneries, to best fulfill our unique and specific needs.
• Research and have awareness of global and domestic trends to provide inspiration and newness, whilst evaluating potential and suitability for the Roots customer.
• Oversee critical tools and processes like tech packs and hand offs to the product development team, ensuring clarity, consistency, and on-time delivery.
• Work collaboratively with team members to ensure patterns, fabric and trim selection and fittings are running smoothly and efficiently.
• Oversee the development of new fabrics, washes, trims and finishes that align with current themes that consistently elevate the brand.
• Proactively seek out opportunities to maximize business by fostering relationships with suppliers to ensure that product development meets Roots brand standards.
• Partner with key organizational support functions to operate key calendar and production management systems.
• Collaborate with Real Estate and facilities on any leather factory building and equipment maintenance or upgrades are well considered.
• Work with Finance, Senior Design Director, and Chief Product Officer to determine seasonal budget planning, including but not limited to team org, samples and travel.

Top candidates for the Director, Design \xe2\x80\x93 Accessories and Leather role will have the following:

• Bachelor\xe2\x80\x99s degree in fashion design combined with a passion for apparel and retail.
• Related garment construction and design experience; leather products, accessories expertise preferred.
• A clear and thorough understanding of the design process to work effectively with the design and merchandising teams.
• Demonstrated ability to lead effectively in a complex, multi-functional business environment supporting a variety of initiatives.
• Strategic, proven experience in developing short-term departmental objectives while considering future directions.
• Minimum of 12 years\xe2\x80\x99 business experience with proven ability to think strategically and execute tactically.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of progressive experience in managing and leading teams.
• Genuine passion for Roots, appreciation for Roots\xe2\x80\x99 craftsmanship. Ready to absorb the Roots\xe2\x80\x99 heritage while continuing to look to the future.
• Strong creative sensibilities with an innovative approach, knowledgeable in fashion and trends in apparel
• Strong partner, listens intently, seeks to understand and collaborates effectively across the organization.
• Genuine curiosity to learn and absorb the heritage of Roots iconic business.

Founded in 1973, Roots Canada is a publicly held Canadian lifestyle brand that sells apparel, leather bags, small leather goods, footwear and active athletic wear with over 100 retail stores in North America and Asia.

Other details

• Pay Type Salary

• 1400 Castlefield Ave, Toronto, ON M6B 4C4, Canada

Roots Canada