About Rip Curl
Founded in Torquay in 1969, Rip Curl is The Ultimate Surfing Company, born from a relentless pursuit for waves, adventure, and freedom, called 'The Search'. Today, The Search continues to inspire all that we do, from the products we make, the events we run, the athletes we support, and the values we strive to uphold. Built by surfers, for surfers, Rip Curl is a global company that has been leading the surf industry for over 50 years. As a certified B Corp, we aim to prioritise people and planet in everything we do. The Search is calling… apply today and become part of The Ultimate Surfing company.
About the role....
Rip Curl is seeking a visionary Swimwear Design Director to lead our global women's swimwear category. Based at our Torquay headquarters, this newly created role is your chance to shape the future of performance and lifestyle swimwear for the world's Ultimate Surfing Company.
As the global leader of Women's Swimwear Design, you'll be fanatical about fit, function, and fashion—creating innovative swimwear that empowers women in the water and on the beach. You'll lead a talented design crew, collaborate across departments, and deliver cohesive, trend-driven ranges that reflect Rip Curl's brand DNA and elevate the women's surf wear experience.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Innovation
* Lead the design of swimwear ranges with a focus on trend, colour, fit, fabric, and styling.
* Champion innovation and sustainability across the women's swimwear category.
* Ensure product ranges reflect customer segmentation and global market needs.
Leadership & Collaboration
* Inspire and develop a high-performing design team within the hub.
* Collaborate with Head of Product, Head of Design, and the Men's Boardshort Design Director to ensure strategic alignment and shared vision.
* Build strong relationships across Product Development, Marketing, Sales, and global teams.
Creative Direction
* Oversee graphics, artworks, trims, and yardages in partnership with the Art & Graphics team.
* Ensure consistency in fabrication, construction, and fit across the swimwear range.
* Uphold seasonal creative direction and messaging across all women's swimwear categories.
What You'll Bring
* Proven experience in apparel or swimwear design, ideally within surf, sport or lifestyle brands.
* Deep understanding of garment construction, fabric innovation, and trend forecasting.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and grow a creative team.
* Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
* Passion for Rip Curl's brand, values, and customers.
Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands
At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.
We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.
We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.
Click APPLY and join us on The Search.
Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.