Junior Footwear Designer - Ladieswear

N Brown – who we are and why work for us?  

N Brown is a leading UK digital retail platform for clothing, footwear, home and technology, headquartered in Manchester and employing over 1,200 people nationwide. Through our strategic retail brands JD Williams, Jacamo and Simply Be and our unique payments offering, we exist to champion inclusivity and serve the underserved. Our customers are our passion, and we take great pride in delivering products that ensure they can look and feel amazing, without compromising on choice, value and accessibility. 

We’re committed to building a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive environment that values equality for all. Our vision is that by ‘championing inclusion, we’ll become the most loved and trusted fashion retailer’. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging are, therefore, at the heart of our culture.

In May 2024 we were delighted to be named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024. We work hard to create a happy and inclusive culture for everyone and we’re so proud to have made this list - as voted for by our very own colleagues!

A day in the life of an Junior Footwear Designer here at N Brown

• Design and develop innovative, trend-led footwear and potentially accessory ranges across multiple brands and customer profiles.

• Research and translate emerging trends, colour palettes, and materials into commercial product concepts.

• Work cross-functionally with Ladieswear, Buying, Technical, and Studio teams to ensure collections are cohesive and aligned with brand direction.

• Prepare and present design concepts, mood boards, and trend direction for internal reviews and seasonal sign-offs.

• Design with the customer in mind, understanding brand positioning, price architecture, and key seasonal focuses.

• Partner with suppliers and factories to develop samples, refine materials, and maintain product integrity through to production.

• Balance creativity with commercial viability, ensuring products meet margin and cost targets.

• Support the Head of Design with seasonal strategy, product innovation, and long-term design direction.

What are we looking for

• Proven experience designing ladies footwear (and ideally accessories) for a fashion retailer or supplier.

• A strong portfolio showcasing creative, trend-led, and commercially viable designs.

• Excellent understanding of footwear construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.

• Strong trend forecasting and visual research skills.

• Confident in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and proficient in CAD.

• Exceptional styling eye and ability to interpret trends across different customer demographics.

• A collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively across multiple departments.

• Strong communication and presentation skills.

• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to work to multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

What’s in it for you?

• Hybrid working  (2-3 days in the office at a minimum)
• 24 days holiday (+ 8 bank holidays)
• Annual bonus scheme 
• Enhanced maternity and adoption leave 
• Company pension with up to 8% N Brown contribution 
• Mental Health support both internally and externally, including access to our wellbeing champions and counselling services  
• A range of financial wellbeing support  
• Stream - a financial wellbeing tool that helps you track your pay, access earnings early and manage your money with confidence
• Colleague discount across all N Brown brands 
• Onsite café with subsidised rates and local restaurant discounts! 
• Life Assurance and Private Medical Insurance 
• Paid volunteer time – all our colleagues can take a full day paid to volunteer for a charity of their choice  

Ways of Working

We offer hybrid working which varies across the business depending on the role you’re in. Our Head Office is located in the Northern Quarter in Manchester City Centre. So if you are travelling by train, tram or bus we’re perfectly located, plus we’re surrounded by cool cafes, trendy bars and the best places to eat!