Design Director

About Us American Exchange Group is an industry leader in fashion accessory products and brand management. By facilitating distribution to major retailers internationally for their globally recognized brands, custom private label brands, and exclusive licensed brands—including footwear, tech wearables, watches, jewelry, handbags, fashion accessories, home, and beauty—American Exchange Group raises the bar by disrupting the status quo with value and quality, while staying at the forefront of trends.
Design Director – Women’s Hosiery/Socks About Us American Exchange Group is an industry leader in fashion accessory products and brand management. By facilitating distribution to major retailers internationally for their globally recognized brands, custom private label brands, and exclusive licensed brands—including footwear, tech wearables, watches, jewelry, handbags, fashion accessories, home, and beauty—American Exchange Group raises the bar by disrupting the status quo with value and quality, while staying at the forefront of trends.
Joining American Exchange Group means being part of a dynamic and diverse team where your contributions drive real impact—and where there’s always room to grow. If you're looking to be part of a company that blends heritage with hustle, we’re excited to meet you.
Visit our website at www.axnygroup.com
Overview We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Luggage Design to lead the creative direction and execution of our luggage and travel accessories categories. This role is responsible for setting the overall design strategy, driving seasonal line development, and ensuring product aligns with brand vision, trend direction, margin targets, and operational capabilities. The Director will partner closely with Merchandising, Production, and Sales to deliver compelling, commercially successful assortments.
Location:
This is 5 days onsite at our NYC headquarters in the Garment District.
Primary Job Responsibilities Own and lead the creative vision and design strategy for the luggage and travel accessories category across seasons and accounts
Direct seasonal line development from concept through production-ready execution, ensuring consistency with brand DNA and business objectives
Translate market trends, customer insights, and competitive analysis into commercial, brand-appropriate product within pricing and margin targets
Oversee and approve specs, technical drawings, and production-ready artwork to ensure accuracy, quality, and manufacturability
Partner cross-functionally with Merchandising, Production, Sourcing, and Sales to align design direction with capacity, timelines, and cost parameters
Balance creativity with speed, efficiency, and execution in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Drive continuous improvement in design processes and workflows to support scale and growth
Support additional design initiatives and special projects as needed
Qualifications & Experience 7+ years of experience in luggage, handbag, or travel accessories design, with demonstrated ownership of full categories
Proven ability to lead design direction while remaining hands-on as needed
Strong portfolio showcasing trend leadership, commercial sensibility, and technical expertise
Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator)
Deep knowledge of materials, construction, and manufacturing processes specific to socks/hosiery
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and process-driven with strong follow-through
Ability to manage multiple priorities, tight deadlines, and fast-turn production cycles
Collaborative leadership style with strong communication and cross-functional partnership skills
High energy, entrepreneurial mindset, and passion for product and the business
Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Product Design, or related field (preferred)
What We Offer Comprehensive Health & Wellness Benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with company match
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
Flexible Fridays with shortened hours during both Summer and Winter seasons
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Tax-free commuter benefits
Exclusive employee merchandise discounts
Salary: The anticipated base salary is $120k-$150k annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, internal equity, and location.

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