Senior Designer, Global Apparel

VF International seeks a Senior Designer for its Global Apparel team in Stabio, CH. The role focuses on creating men’s and women’s outdoor lifestyle apparel using natural fibers, balancing creativity with commercial viability.

This position sits within the Global Apparel Product Creation team at icebreaker, a brand under VF International. The primary purpose is to lead the end-to-end design of outdoor lifestyle apparel for both men and women, ensuring that products are commercially successful, technically sound, and aligned with the brand’s identity and sustainability values.

Responsibilities

• Design apparel that balances high-quality aesthetics with cost-effectiveness and value.
• Lead the creation of outdoor lifestyle items using natural fibers, covering categories from knits to woven fabrics.
• Develop styles that reflect current trends and consumer demands while maintaining brand integrity.
• Ensure all designs are practical, commercially viable, and meet business objectives.
• Collaborate with Product Development and Merchandising teams to ensure accurate product execution for the target audience.
• Partner with Merchandising and Marketing on special initiatives, including brand collaborations.
• Oversee external resources and handle administrative tasks, such as invoice processing, to support the Design team.
• Work with the Director of Global Product and the Senior Manager of Global Design to define seasonal narratives involving color, graphics, materials, and new styles.
• Manage the design process from initial concept through to final product delivery.
• Research and implement innovative technologies, construction techniques, and features to enhance product performance and user experience.
• Resolve fit, style, and construction issues by working with Product, Merchandising, Development, and vendors to ensure commercial readiness.
• Share knowledge and support onboarding to help build creative capability across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, or equivalent education and experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and high computer literacy.
• Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite and 3D product creation tools like Browzwear or CLO.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in Product Design within the apparel industry.
• Deep understanding of garment construction, pattern cutting, and product execution with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, stay organized, and adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, supporting project management and solution-finding with the consumer in mind.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to keep teams aligned during design and development.
• Proactive, solution-oriented mindset to identify challenges and drive work forward.

Nice to have

• Experience in the fashion lifestyle or outdoor apparel sector.
• Advanced degrees or certifications in sustainable product design or project management.

What the company offers

• Comprehensive benefits supporting mental, physical, and financial well-being.
• A supportive culture based on respect, integrity, and feedback.
• An inclusive international environment that values diverse backgrounds and lifestyles.
• Opportunity to work with an iconic lifestyle brand within a multi-brand, global organization.
• Access to an on-site gym with health and well-being initiatives.
• 50% discount on all VF brands.
• Break-out areas with complimentary hot drinks.
• Relocation support for applicants living more than 100 km from Stabio.

About the company

VF International’s icebreaker brand is driven by the belief that nature holds the answers to sustainable performance. The company provides natural alternatives to synthetic apparel, aiming to create a healthier future for people and the planet. They are passionate about connecting consumers to natural materials and fostering a culture of belonging, respect, openness, and authenticity. The workplace celebrates diversity, encouraging employees to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

• Providing natural performance alternatives to synthetic-based apparel.
• Fostering a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness, and authenticity.
• Celebrating the diversity of associates and allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work.
• Being part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi-brand, multi-country organization.