Head of Atelier
Chanel in Seoul seeks a Head of Atelier to lead the couture workshop, manage artisans and deliver seasonal collections and bespoke client work.
Overview
Chanel is a globally recognised French luxury house known for its haute couture, ready-to-wear, leather goods, accessories and beauty lines. Privately owned and built on a legacy of artisanal savoir‑faire, the brand combines rigorous craft traditions with contemporary creativity across a worldwide network of ateliers and boutiques.
Role & Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Seoul atelier, ensuring deliveries for seasonal collections and bespoke client commissions meet brand standards and timelines.
- Manage, mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team of seamstresses, pattern makers, cutters and finishers; recruit specialist artisans as required.
- Oversee all atelier production processes including pattern cutting, toile creation, sample development, fittings and final finishing while safeguarding couture techniques.
- Implement quality control protocols and approve final garments to ensure conformity with Chanel’s technical and aesthetic standards.
- Coordinate closely with design, product development, sourcing and store teams to align production schedules, material availability and costing.
- Control atelier budgets, labour planning and vendor relationships; optimise workflows to balance craft integrity with operational efficiency.
- Maintain strict confidentiality, client discretion and the highest standards of presentation during fittings and bespoke services.
- Ensure workplace health & safety, maintenance of specialised equipment, and continuous improvement of atelier practices.
Qualifications
- Extensive expertise in couture techniques, pattern cutting, toiles and hand finishing (in-depth knowledge of couture construction methods).
- Proven leadership experience in a luxury atelier or couture environment, with a track record of managing cross‑functional artisan teams.
- Strong organisational and financial acumen with experience in production planning, budgeting and cost control.
- Excellent eye for detail and quality, with the ability to sign off on technical and aesthetic garment standards.
- Fluent interpersonal skills with experience liaising between designers, suppliers and client services; ability to maintain confidentiality and high client care standards.
- Formal education in fashion design, textile technology or equivalent practical experience is preferred.
Skills
Experience
Significant senior experience (typically 8+ years) within haute couture or high‑end ready‑to‑wear ateliers, including progressive responsibility for workshop leadership, sample production and delivery of seasonal collections and bespoke commissions.
Education
Degree or diploma in fashion design, textile technology, or equivalent professional experience in couture/atelier management.
Culture
Chanel’s workplace culture places craftsmanship and heritage at its centre, valuing meticulous technique and creative excellence. Teams operate in a disciplined yet collaborative environment where artisanal skill, discretion and continuous learning are prized.