Cortney Souther
Product Development Lead · Machines For Freedom
San Francisco, CA
In My Own Words
Highly motivated and accomplished Creative Professional with 14 years of experience in Apparel Design and Development in sportswear and performance apparel. Driven by a love for the outdoors, sports, and all things trendy, I am a forward thinking, ambitious team player who is always ready for the next challenge. Portfolio : www.followingcortney.com/portfolio
Work Experience
Product Development Lead
Machines For Freedom2020 – Present
Works directly with the Founder and Design Director to carry initial Design concepts through to Production. Machines For Freedom is a Women run Cycling and Performance apparel and accessory brand, for Women, focusing on size inclusivity and body diversity. Machines For Freedom is owned by Specialized.
Technical Apparel Developer
The North Face2019 – 2019
As part of the Mountain Sports Team, I worked to meet design, fit, construction and margin expectations for the Women's Lifestyle and Performance Sportswear categories • Responsible for collaboration on innovative market research to elevate design/development techniques
Global Developer
Timberland2017 – 2018
• Worked independently and collaboratively with internal and external teams from concept through final production • Reviewed new concepts, translating them with accurate technical details, bills of material, construction details, and size specs • Evaluated samples and executed all development changes to fabric, trims and color • Prepared and engaged in cross-function reviews; offering suggestions on improved construction • Maintained in-house WIP reports and ensure all key global deadlines are met • Researched, sourced, and developed materials and trims for current and future season products
Apparel Designer
Old Time Sports2013 – 2016
• Lead initial concept of design through production for Global product needs for Women’s Licensed Sportswear, Headwear, and Accessories • Forecast seasonal color and fashion trend direction with analysis of needs for seasonal line plan • Adhere to NHL League Licenses for each style created and manage revisions • Participated in proto fit sessions, design meetings, and relayed notes to factories as needed • Completed techpack production art for factories and handled art and sample requests
Apparel Product Development Manager
'47 Brand2016 – 2016
• Promoted from Senior level to Manager • Oversaw Development needs across five Apparel collections for Licensed Sportswear • Managed a team of two Junior Developers • Ensured all style details were provided to factories to maximize accuracy of samples • Participated in vendor meetings and factory visits confirming production capabilities and limitations • Managed 3D Design team training with 3D Design program Optitex within departmen
Apparel and Accessory Designer
Muddees2011 – 2014
Freelance Apparel/Accessory Designer for various sportswear brands: • Muddees Accessories • Active Angelz • Adrenaline Obsession • CKC Swimwear • Cocoon Inc.
Designer - Lingerie/Sleepwear
Bennett and Company2008 – 2011
• Promoted from Assistant to lead Designer for Victoria's Secret client account. Responsible for all aspects of design. • Assisted in all aspects of the Lingerie design process for the Frederick's of Hollywood brand, and was a floating design assistant for Hanes, Lane Bryant, Armani Exchange, Soma, Victoria's Secret, and Avon.
