Kate Spade Designer, Licensing

New York • USA

Monday, February 10, 2025

Kate Spade New York, a vibrant and optimistic global lifestyle brand, is renowned for its bold and colorful designs that span handbags, ready-to-wear, jewelry, footwear, and home décor. As part of the Tapestry portfolio, a leading global house of brands, Kate Spade is committed to innovation and inclusivity, celebrating communities of women worldwide. Tapestry, Inc. is dedicated to equity, inclusion, and diversity, making it a dynamic and forward-thinking employer.

1. Serve as the primary liaison with licensee design teams to execute seasonal design and brand direction.
2. Ensure design integrity and adherence to brand standards throughout the development process.
3. Conduct research on seasonal trends and maintain awareness of market competition.
4. Develop seasonal trend inspiration presentations by category and initiate kickoffs with licensees.
5. Collaborate with the Licensing Business team to establish a seasonal T&A calendar by category.
6. Ensure adherence to departmental timelines, meeting key milestones and final calendar dates.
7. Prepare for and lead design meetings, conducting necessary follow-ups.
8. Manage the execution of Cut & Sew tech packs from conception to bulk production.
9. Work closely with the Art Department to provide seasonal artwork needs and oversee final pass-off to licensees or factories.
10. Create and manage artwork deadlines throughout the development process.
11. Partner with licensees, merchandising, and product development teams throughout the design cycle.
12. Facilitate cross-collaboration with in-house design teams to share design assets and seasonal direction with licensees.
13. Oversee communication and sourcing with factories for Cut & Sew.
14. Communicate internal design priorities and changes throughout the season to the direct team and licensees.
15. Initiate project requests and oversee them to final approval with relevant departments.
16. Maintain seasonal boards and design libraries by category.

1. 5+ years of experience in the fashion industry.
2. Ability to self-manage and independently liaise with license partners.
3. Strong understanding of the development process, calendars, and lead times.
4. Proficient design and research skills across diverse design categories.
5. Strong sense of trends, style, color, material, and construction.
6. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines.
7. Strong organizational skills and deadline management.
8. Excellent communication and presentation skills.
9. Licensing experience preferred.

1. Design proficiency
2. Trend analysis
3. Project management
4. Cross-functional collaboration
5. Communication
6. Organizational skills
7. Time management

A minimum of 5 years in the fashion industry with a focus on design and development processes.

Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or a related field.

Base pay range from $67,000 to $95,500 annually.

Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and employee discounts.

Kate Spade fosters a culture of creativity, inclusivity, and innovation, where employees are encouraged to express their individuality and contribute to a vibrant workplace. As part of the Tapestry family, the company is committed to equity and diversity, ensuring a supportive environment for all.