Head of Product Design, RLX

Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren's reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands and international markets. The Company's brand names, which include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others, constitute one of the world's most widely recognized families of consumer brands.

At Ralph Lauren, we unite and inspire the communities within our company as well as those in which we serve by amplifying voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging, ensuring inclusion, and fairness for all. We foster a culture of inclusion through: Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups and Celebration.

The Head of Product Design for Ralph Lauren RLX will co-lead and oversee RLX Product Design efforts across apparel categories. Specifically this role will directly oversee design and product oversight for outerwear and knits and will co-lead and help orchestrate the design for all other RLX Men' s product categories.

This role is responsible for leading the design teams to support the end-to-end product development lifecycle. 

The Head of Product Design should embody a passion, deep understanding, and respect for the Ralph Lauren brand. This role will serve as a key collaborative member of the design team and across multiple stakeholders to deliver best-in-class designs and uphold the Ralph Lauren quality standards.

Seasonal Research & Insights

• Have a strong and innovative point of view regarding the market and trends, and how they relate to RLX brand.
• Conduct comprehensive seasonal competitive research and present during seasonal design meetings to inform creative direction.
• Support team on special projects.

Cross-Category Cohesiveness

• Foster strong cross-functional relationships and collaboration, ensuring a cohesive and consistent brand image across all product categories from vision to execution.
• Partner with each design category lead to prep and edit line; ensure a balanced line across all categories, inclusive of merchandising needs and design intent.

Brand Differentiation

• Deep understanding of the brand — interpret in a market-right presentation and advocate for quality and style that’s right for the brand.

Fit, Fabric, Color Strategy & Construction Excellence

• In partnership with Heads of Design, attend all fit sessions and ensure design integrity in proto and stock fittings. 
• Collaborate with Fabric Team to develop seasonal fabric and color stories
• Print and material partnership - handing off prints and direct creative development through sample approval

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage designers on aesthetic and help to lead presentations.
• Create a culture of Design Mentorship with junior team members.
• Create actionable goals and provide clear two-way feedback for team to motivate and build skill sets. 

Calendar & Process Management

• Align and adherence to design calendar and milestones and strong partnership with other Heads of Design
• Partner with cross-functional teams to deliver on time and within scope. Lead the strategic planning of resources, internal communications and key initiatives across the design team.