Professional Overview
Brendan Rodgers is a seasoned designer with over 13 years of experience in the apparel and textiles industry. He currently serves as the Senior Designer for Workwear at Ariat International, where he leads the design and development of innovative performance-focused workwear products. Brendan's expertise spans textile design, product development, and trend forecasting, with a proven track record of creating stylish and functional designs that resonate with consumers.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Senior Designer for Workwear at Ariat International, Brendan is responsible for conceptualizing and delivering premium workwear collections that meet the evolving needs of the brand's diverse customer base. He collaborates cross-functionally with product management, merchandising, and sourcing teams to translate market insights into commercially viable designs. Brendan's innovative designs and attention to detail have played a pivotal role in driving Ariat's growth and market share in the highly competitive workwear segment.
Career Progression
Brendan's design career began at Gap Inc., where he held progressive roles, culminating in a Senior Designer position. He then moved to Mountain Hardwear, where he rose to the level of Senior Designer, overseeing the design and development of technical outdoor apparel. Brendan's expertise in textile design and trend forecasting led to a Freelance Textile Designer role at Pottery Barn, and a Contract Designer position at The North Face, a VF Company. Throughout his career, Brendan has consistently demonstrated the ability to create designs that resonate with target audiences, while also driving operational efficiencies and process improvements.
Academic Background
Brendan holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Textile Design from the Rhode Island School of Design, where he graduated with honors. His specialized education in textile design, color theory, and material science has been instrumental in shaping his technical and creative prowess.
Areas of Expertise
- Textile design and development
- Product design and development
- Workwear and performance apparel
- Trend forecasting and market analysis
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Process improvement and operational efficiency
Professional Impact
During his tenure at Mountain Hardwear, Brendan spearheaded the development of a new technical insulation fabric that improved moisture management and thermal regulation. This innovation was widely acclaimed by industry experts and helped the brand maintain its competitive edge. At Ariat International, Brendan's design leadership has contributed to the brand's growing market share and enhanced brand reputation in the workwear segment.
Conclusion
Brendan Rodgers is a versatile and accomplished designer with a proven ability to create innovative and commercially successful products. His deep understanding of the apparel and textiles industry, coupled with his technical expertise and collaborative approach, make him a valuable asset to any organization seeking to drive design-led growth and market differentiation.