Design Department Supervisor

Recruiter:

Sandi Crowther Recruitment

Job Ref:

DUR003452/JK

Date posted:

Monday, September 8, 2025

Location:

Durban, South Africa

Salary:

19 000

SUMMARY:
Pinetown. An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced Design Department Supervisor to join a well-established and reputable business within the clothing industry. This role offers the chance to take ownership of the Design Department, working across a dynamic range of responsibilities within print, embroidery, trims, and production planning.

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate with the Merchandise team to cost tender prints based on colours or techniques
Direct the Design Assistant on which prints to send and to whom, based on factory capabilities
Negotiate with printers to secure competitive costs
Liaise with printers to ensure accurate sampling of prints and techniques
Plan and oversee production with printers, embroiderers, pleaters, wash houses, and outsourced vendors
Work closely with production teams to manage timelines for CMT deliveries
Identify opportunities to expedite print processes to support production
Source and onboard new vendors (printers, embroiderers, pleaters) as needed
Manage monthly sampling and production schedules
Review strike-offs and coordinate approvals with the merchandise assistant and buyers
Follow up on pending approvals to avoid production delays
Request fabric from assistants in the event of re-strikes
Troubleshoot print issues related to fabric bases, such as sublimation or cracking
Oversee print testing payments and manage bulk claim submissions

Trims:

Source and cost imported trims for merchandising tenders
Approve trim samples in correct colours and sizing
Negotiate costing and place orders
Advise on trim application methods and guide machinists accordingly

Design Department Coordination:

Maintain print schedules and ensure no CADs are missed
Follow up with merchandisers on missing turn-ons
Set clear design deadlines to ensure timely production
Track daily progress of the design team and delegate tasks based on priorities
Respond quickly to urgent CAD review requests

Requirements

Matric
Relevant tertiary qualification preferred
Proven experience as a Clothing Graphic Designer in the fashion / apparel industry
Strong creative skills with a deep understanding of garment prints and graphics
Excellent administrative skills to manage bulk print and production workflows
Confident in liaising with international suppliers, particularly in China, for special developments
Highly organized, proactive, and a strong communicator with team leadership experience

Apply:

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