Old Navy
February 7, 2020
Meet the jack of all [Old Navy Design] trades, Kim Sutcliffe. She began as an intern and has worked her way up to her current role – Designer, Men’s Woven Bottoms. The secret to her success? Making an effort to move around the Design teams + categories as much as she can. Being a well-rounded designer is a priority of hers, and that means constantly challenging herself with new products to design and exposing herself to new businesses to learn. Fun fact: Since she started, she’s worked as a designer on every male team, from Newborn to Adult. Like we said, jack of all trades.
Continue reading to find out what makes Kim #oldnavyproud.
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO OLD NAVY:
I was lucky enough to be chosen as a summer intern back in 2012 and brought over from England, which led to a full-time position after I finished university. It’s such an amazing program that gives graduate designers a start in an industry that is difficult to get into. I really credit the program with giving me a strong start to my career.
BEST PART ABOUT WORKING ON YOUR TEAM:
The Men’s team is like my work family. Everyone is so supportive of each other and each season feels like a true collaboration between us all. I love that everyone’s opinion is considered and important no matter your level.
WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2020:
The Ultimate 3.0 relaunch!! The team has been working for so long to bring it to fruition (long before I joined!) and it’s so exciting to see it finally hit stores!
HOW YOU GET INSPIRED AFTER HITTING A CREATIVE ROADBLOCK:
Sometimes I feel like stepping away from the problem helps me come up with solutions. If I get outdoors or work on something else, I can come back with a clearer head to re-assess.
PROUDEST CAREER MOMENT AT OLD NAVY:
I’m not sure if there’s just one that I can pinpoint, but it’s always so fun to spot my designs out on the street or on my commute! I was in Barcelona last year and I saw someone wearing one of the shirts I designed for Old Navy. It was cool to see it, especially that far away! Plus, it was an older item, which means it had stood the test of time!
ONE PIECE OF CAREER ADVICE:
Find a good mentor, I only credit any success I’ve had to the designers who took the time and effort to teach me how to do the job properly. People further along in their careers than you have so much valuable knowledge to pass on, so learn all you can!
WHAT MAKES YOU #OLDNAVYPROUD:
I’m proud to work for a company that offers such amazing product, trend and quality at a price that makes it accessible to everyone.
Interested in joining our design team? Check out our open design roles
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