Operations & Design Manager at children's clothing company

Company: Strawberry Stripes Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu Job Type: Full-time contract, In-office Experience Required: 0-2 years (Freshers welcome) ABOUT STRAWBERRY STRIPES Strawberry Stripes is a Chennai-based children's clothing business with over 25 years of heritage. We specialize in creating comfortable, high-quality clothing that children love to wear while showcasing the beautiful handwork of Indian artisans. Our wholesale and retail operations span India and international markets. With wholesale and retail operations across India and international markets, we're seeking a creative and detail-oriented Operations & Design Manager. JOB DESCRIPTION We are looking for a fashion/design graduate who can bridge the creative and operational aspects of our business. This unique role combines collection planning and design coordination with end-to-end operations management - from production to dispatch. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to see their creative vision come to life while learning the business side of fashion. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Design & Collection Development: • Plan and develop new collections based on market trends and customer preferences • Coordinate new collection planning and development timelines • Conduct product performance analysis to identify bestsellers and inform future designs • Monitor tech pack and pattern development status • Create sampling calendar and ensure consistent production pipeline • Work closely with artisans to ensure design vision translates to final product Production & Supply Chain Management: • Monitor supply of raw materials to ensure on-time production • Plan and track wholesale order production schedules • Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout production Product & Content Management: • Manage product photography shoots and coordinate with photographers Inventory & Fulfillment: • Manage physical inventory and conduct regular stock reconciliation • Oversee packing and dispatch of finished goods • Coordinate daily dispatch operations with courier partners • Process returns, exchanges, and refunds efficiently Wholesale Operations: • Maintain product catalogs and line sheets for wholesale customers • Create professional lookbooks/catalogs for wholesale buyers • Monitor wholesale order status and production planning Administrative: • Manage office operations and ensure smooth daily functioning REQUIRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS • Graduate in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Apparel Design, or related field (STRONGLY PREFERRED) • 0-2 years of experience in fashion operations, production, or design (freshers welcome) • Strong understanding of garment construction, fabrics, and production processes • Creative eye for design with ability to spot trends and translate them into collections • Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities • Strong attention to detail - both in design and operations • Good communication skills for coordinating with tailors, artisans, vendors, and courier partners • Proficiency in MS Excel for inventory tracking • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet production deadlines • Problem-solving mindset with hands-on approach • Knowledge of children's wear market is a plus • Familiarity with tech packs and pattern making is an advantage IDEAL CANDIDATE We're looking for someone who is: • Creative with a strong sense of design and aesthetics • Equally comfortable with both creative planning and operational execution • Detail-oriented in both design development and production management • A quick learner who can adapt to multiple responsibilities • Passionate about bringing designs from concept to finished product • Organized with strong follow-up skills • Team player with positive attitude and collaborative spirit WHAT WE OFFER • Unique opportunity to be involved in both creative design and business operations • Hands-on experience in collection development from concept to market • Comprehensive exposure to all aspects of fashion business - design, production, and operations • Opportunity to shape the creative direction of the brand • Competitive salary • Paid time off (2 weeks/year) This is a contract position based in Chennai. Candidates must be comfortable working from office daily. We work Monday to Saturday. TO APPLY Please submit your resume along with: • Portfolio showcasing design work, tech packs, or college projects (if available) • Brief description of any relevant experience (internships, projects, or previous roles) • Why you're interested in this role We welcome applications from fashion/design graduates and candidates with experience who are eager to grow with us