Designer

Designer

• Permanent Full-time
• Docklands, interstate travel
• Purpose-led Indigenous fashion label

Ngali is an Indigenous fashion brand that showcases unique, original Indigenous artwork through sophisticated garments designed for women aged 30 and over. Using high-quality fabrics, Ngali’s pieces are timeless and long-lasting.

The Role

As a Designer at Ngali, you will be instrumental in elevating the brand’s presence as a purpose-led Indigenous fashion label at the forefront of fashion. Combining innovation with cultural storytelling, you will create cutting-edge designs that not only celebrate Indigenous heritage but also position Ngali at the forefront of contemporary fashion.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Design and develop sophisticated, trend-aware collections tailored for customers aged thirty plus
• Collaborate respectfully and authentically with First Nations artists to incorporate their artworks, adding cultural depth and value to designs.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams, including marketing and production, to ensure cohesive brand storytelling and successful product launches.
• Manage relationships with vendors, suppliers, and Indigenous artists to ensure ethical and high-quality production.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and expansion within the fashion industry while championing Indigenous culture and artistry.
• Oversee the production process from initial concept to final execution, ensuring design integrity and quality standards are met.
• Interstate travel as required to collaborate directly with Indigenous artists, ensuring authentic representation of their artwork in designs and fostering strong, respectful partnerships.

Key Selection Criteria

This role would suit a dynamic and visionary designer with a strong creative flair and a deep appreciation for Indigenous culture and storytelling. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of three years’ experience working with peer fashion labels, demonstrating a proven ability to design trend-forward, high-quality collections that resonate with diverse audiences.

• Tertiary qualifications in Fashion Design is essential
• Demonstrated expertise and a proven track record in designing sophisticated, contemporary fashion collections tailored for the 30+ market
• High attention to detail in all aspects of design, from initial concept through to garment fitting and final production
• A deep understanding of how to collaborate respectfully with First Nations artists to authentically honour and represent their cultural heritage
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in managing vendor relationships, overseeing production processes, and ensuring high-quality garment fitting, quality control, and timely delivery.
• A collaborative team player with excellent communication skills, capable of working cross-functionally with marketing, production, and external partners
• A strong commitment to working with a purpose-led organisation, using fashion as a platform to celebrate Indigenous culture, promote ethical design practices, and drive meaningful social impact.
• Extensive knowledge of the Australian and global fashion markets.
• Strong Photoshop, Illustrator CAD and other design program skills.
• Highly skilled in visual design concepts (by hand and/or PC/Mac).

Why Work With Ngali?

• Ngali is a multi-award-winning fashion brand poised for significant growth, both nationally and internationally. Joining the Ngali team means being part of an ambitious journey to transform our brand into a globally recognised name.
• Your exceptional design skills will play a pivotal role in realising this purpose-led vision, helping Ngali craft collections that resonate with customers worldwide while staying true to the innovative and culturally respectful ethos. You will be creating fashion that not only inspires but also leaves a lasting impact on the industry.

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the Indigenous community in Australia.

How to Apply

If you’re looking for an opportunity to utilise your exceptional design skills while making an impact in the Indigenous community and Australian fashion, please apply with a cover letter and a current resume in one PDF, or call Gabrielle Patterson on 0416 170 100.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and people of all backgrounds. We believe that diverse perspectives and experiences enrich our workplace and drive our success. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know, and we will ensure your needs are met.