Mitchell & Ness is a globally recognised heritage sportswear brand known for its premium craftsmanship, authenticity, and deep connection to sports culture. Founded in 1904, the company has built its reputation by producing high‑quality, officially licensed apparel that celebrates the history of major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL. Renowned for its iconic throwback jerseys, vintage‑inspired designs, and attention to detail, Mitchell & Ness blends timeless style with modern streetwear appeal. The brand continues to resonate with fans, athletes, and fashion enthusiasts alike, making it a leader in the sports lifestyle market.
ROLE OVERVIEW
Lead the creative development of apparel and headwear graphics across seasonal collections, from concept to final execution, ensuring alignment with the product calendar and commercial objectives. Translate brand creative direction and briefs into on‑trend, commercially relevant design solutions while collaborating closely with Category Managers, Product Designers, and Developers to deliver high‑quality, market‑ready products. Provide leadership to a team of Graphic Designers, mentoring and guiding their development, driving consistency in design standards, and fostering a collaborative, high‑performing creative environment.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
Undertake market, trend, and competitor research to inform seasonal graphic direction, print, and artwork execution across apparel ranges
Create and develop original graphics, prints, and placements using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, producing high‑quality, production‑ready artwork
Collaborate with Category Management and Product Design & Development to deliver commercially relevant graphic ranges, informed by sales data, trend insight, and brand direction, including the evolution of core styles
Review samples, strike‑offs, and lab dips from suppliers, providing clear feedback to ensure graphic accuracy, colour integrity, and alignment to the original design intent
Work closely with Product Development to ensure all artwork is executed in line with design briefs, considering print techniques, cost constraints, and margin requirements
Lead and mentor a team of Graphic Designers, providing creative direction, feedback, and support to drive consistency, quality, and individual development
Champion creativity within the branded category, pushing graphic innovation while respecting brand guidelines to maximise commercial impact and differentiation at retail
Manage multiple projects within a fast‑paced environment, maintaining strong organisation, attention to detail, and a proactive, confident approach to delivering to critical path timelines
WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM
Significant experience designing apparel graphics across multiple categories, with a strong understanding of print, placement, and commercial application
A relevant degree in Graphic Design, Fashion Graphics, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience
Proven ability to work across a variety of graphic styles, techniques, and print methods, with a strong eye for trend and brand relevance
Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and relevant design software, with the ability to produce accurate, production‑ready artwork
Strong understanding of branded and licensed product, with the ability to balance creative expression and brand guidelines to maximise impact
Experience leading or mentoring designers, with the ability to inspire creativity, provide clear direction, and elevate team output
Excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross‑functional teams
Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deliver to tight deadlines within a fast‑paced environment
High attention to detail, ensuring consistency and accuracy from concept through to production
A creative yet commercially aware mindset, combining strong design instincts with a logical, problem‑solving approach
A keen interest in sport, fashion, and culture, with an understanding of how this influences graphic trends and consumer demand (desirable)
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU
Culture: Join a team where you're surrounded by top‑tier talent, driven by a shared passion to relentlessly enhance the fan experience. With a focus on collaboration, support, and continuous development, you’ll be empowered to help shape our culture that celebrates both individual and team successes.
Benefits: At Fanatics, we’re dedicated to supporting you in all aspects of work and life; as such we offer a range of competitive benefits tailored to each country in which we operate. Specific details regarding the benefits package applicable to your location will be shared and discussed during the interview process.
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