What are the responsibilities and job description for the Design Operations Manager position at John Hardy?
POSITION: Design Operations Manager
LOCATION: NYC Metro, Hybrid
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Design Operations Manager ensures the smooth execution of design initiatives across a global team. This role coordinates workflows between the New York design studio, the Bali design studio, Merchandising (New York) and product development partners in Bali and Bangkok.
This position focuses on operational excellence, cross-functional communication, and project management, ensuring that design work progresses efficiently from concept through development while maintaining alignment with merchandising and production timelines.
Key Responsibilities:
Design Workflow & Project Management
- Coordinate the flow of design projects from concept through development and handoff to product development
- Maintain seasonal calendars, milestones, and deliverables across teams
- Track project status and proactively identify risks to timelines
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Serve as the primary liaison between design, merchandising, and product development teams
- Ensure clear communication of design priorities, updates, and approvals across global teams
- Align design output with merchandising needs and assortment strategies
Operational Structure
- Implement and maintain tools, processes, and documentation that improve design team efficiency
- Organize design reviews, milestone meetings, and sample approvals
- Maintain design archives, reference materials, and seasonal documentation
Team & Studio Support
- Support the day-to-day operations of the design studio
- Help prioritize workloads across the design team
- Ensure design deliverables are prepared for internal presentations and cross-functional reviews
Qualifications:
- 5–8 years of experience in design operations, project management, or studio management
- Experience working with global creative and product development teams
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
- Ability to manage multiple timelines and priorities simultaneously
- Experience in fashion, accessories, jewelry, or consumer products preferred