Lead Designer

About böhmeBöhme is a fast-growing, fashion-forward women's apparel brand with a strong retailfootprint and expanding eCommerce business. Built by founders with a strong point ofview and deep customer connection, the brand has historically partnered with overseasvendors to bring product to life.We are seeking a Lead Designer to become Böhme's first internal design hire, owningthe creative vision and product direction end-to-end. This role will partner closely withthe founders and collaborate with overseas manufacturing partners (primarily in China)to elevate product, refine brand identity, and build a more intentional, design-ledassortment.This is a unique opportunity to step into a highly entrepreneurial environment and buildthe design function from the ground up.Key ResponsibilitiesCreative Direction & Product DesignOwn and define the overall design vision across select product categories(apparel, dresses, knits, etc.)Translate founder vision and brand DNA into cohesive seasonal assortmentsLead concept development, trend research, color palettes, fabric direction, andsilhouette strategyElevate product to feel more differentiated, elevated, and brand-rightPartnership with FoundersWork closely with founder to align on creative direction and assortment strategyAct as a thought partner in evolving the brand aesthetic and positioningBring new ideas while maintaining the core identity that resonates with thecustomerOverseas Vendor Collaboration (China)Partner directly with overseas factories and development teams to executeproductProvide clear direction on design intent, materials, construction, and fitReview samples, iterate on revisions, and ensure final product meets brandstandardsBalance design vision with cost targets, MOQs, and production realitiesProduct Development & ExecutionOversee the design process from concept through final approvalCollaborate with production and merchandising on timelines and deliveryEnsure alignment between design, costing, and margin targetsManage seasonal calendars and sample timelinesBuilding the Design FunctionEstablish design processes, tools, and workflows from the ground upHelp define how design integrates with merchandising, production, and sourcingOver time, build and mentor a small internal design team as the business growsQualifications7-12+ years of experience in women's apparel designBackground in contemporary, DTC, or retail-driven brands with strong productidentityExperience working with overseas factories (China preferred) and managingdevelopment remotelyStrong understanding of construction, fabrics, fit, and production processesAbility to balance creativity with commerciality (designing for a real customer +price point)Experience owning or heavily influencing an entire category or brand aestheticIdeal ProfileEntrepreneurial and excited to be the first design hireStrong taste level with the ability to elevate product while staying commerciallyviableComfortable working directly with founder in a highly collaborative environmentHands-on and detail-oriented-willing to own everything from concept to sampleapprovalsStrong communicator with overseas partners and internal stakeholdersOrganized and process-driven, but flexible in a fast-moving environmentWhy This RoleOpportunity to own and shape the design function at a growing brandDirect access to founders and influence on overall product directionHigh visibility, high impact role with room to build a team