Andrea Brockson

• Initiate and direct new sample coordination at factories to ensure creative direction is maintained, within budget and on time • Assure componentry and costing for research and development samples is complete and accurate • Coordinate mood boards, color stories, lab dips and yarn palette for product lines throughout approval process • Direct critiques and finalize approvals of all samples to include proto-types, SMS, and Pre-Production samples • Trouble-shoot any issues that arise in a timely manner throughout product development life-cycle

• Lead Designer for men’s, kid’s and women’s private label lines of headwear and accessories working with key accounts • One of two Lead Designers for products distributed through wholesale, retail, and e-commerce, ensuring fresh approaches to benefit the brands including construction techniques and features. • Collaborate with Marketing Manager to provide accurate product information for the seasonal catalog and web presence. • Perform daily vendor correspondence to ensure creative direction is maintained and within budget. • Compile trend research and samples for seasonal design directives and support Regional Sales Managers in business development or directly participate in all sales, design and marketing presentations. • Travel bi-annually to international locales to determine themes, source fabrics and trims and visit contract factories.

• Excelled in a multi-functional role creating original designs and production coordination. Provided design support to the Director to help define product direction and line lists for each season.

• Designed and created apparel and accessories for private clients including custom-fit tailoring and alterations. • Utilized patternmaking skills to draft custom garments, formal wear, military tactical gear, and accessories.

• Acquired knowledge of manufacturing business from production to distribution. • Performed trend and design market research. • Organized textile library, improved catalog system for fabrics, and prepared material and swatch cards for clientele.

• Assisted senior designer in various design projects for commercial and residential clients including selecting fabric and trims. Liaison between vendors, contractors and designers. Maintained client portfolios and records. Performed administrative duties including point of contact for external emails and calls, filing and faxing.