Lead Recruiter

About the Company

We are seeking an experienced Apparel Industry Recruiter to lead full-cycle recruiting for design, merchandising, production, planning, e-commerce, retail operations, and corporate roles within the fashion and apparel sector. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of apparel functions, talent pipelines, seasonal calendars, and the fast-paced nature of the industry. This role requires strategic sourcing, exceptional relationship-building skills, and the ability to identify top talent that aligns with both brand vision and operational needs.

About the Role

The Apparel Industry Recruiter will manage the end-to-end recruitment process for various positions, ensuring alignment with brand needs and fostering a positive candidate experience.

Responsibilities

• Full-Cycle Recruiting
• Manage the end-to-end recruitment process for corporate, retail, and design positions : Design, Technical Design, Merchandising, Production, Sourcing, Planning / Allocation, Buying, E-Commerce, Marketing, and Retail Operations.
• Partner with hiring managers to define role requirements, competencies, and hiring timelines.
• Write clear job descriptions and ensure alignment with brand needs.
• Sourcing & Talent Pipeline
• Actively source candidates using LinkedIn, industry networks, job boards, college programs (FIT, Parsons), and industry-specific recruiting databases.
• Build and maintain strong pipelines for seasonal hiring surges, including design interns, freelancers, product developers, and retail leadership roles.
• Leverage apparel-specific recruitment knowledge (e.g., fabric sourcing talent, CAD designers, patternmakers, product developers, production managers).
• Screening & Interviewing
• Conduct screening interviews to assess skill level, portfolio fit (for creative roles), and cultural alignment.
• Coordinate interview schedules, candidate preparation, and feedback loops between candidates and hiring teams.
• Ensure proper vetting of portfolios, style aesthetics, and technical skills.
• Stakeholder & Candidate Management
• Serve as the primary point of contact for candidates and hiring managers.
• Provide hiring managers with market insights and competitive salary benchmarks.
• Maintain strong relationships with talent, fostering a positive candidate experience.
• Process & Compliance
• Maintain accurate records in the ATS (Applicant Tracking System).
• Ensure compliance with company standards, equal employment practices, and confidentiality protocols.
• Provide weekly recruiting updates and reporting.

Qualifications