Training Institute Manager
Custom Collaborative
Custom Collaborative (CC) is a US-based non-profit social enterprise that trains, mentors, and advocates for and with no/low-income and immigrant women to build the skills necessary to achieve economic success in sustainable fashion and broader society. The organization is centrally located in New York City’s Garment District, and is affiliated with a roster of high-profile supporters.
About the Program
The Training Institute supports a cohort of a minimum of 12 students per training cohort. The 15-week training program teaches the art, craft, technique, and business of garment making and selling. Our flexible curriculum responds to student feedback and offers cooperative learning experiences that build leadership and teamwork skills. Participants graduate with the skills and knowledge required for entry-level careers in the fashion industry, independent businesses and overall greater economic mobility. with few in-demand job skills. Our support leads women to living-wage careers.
Training Institute Manager
Reporting to the Director of Programs, the Training Manager leads Custom Collaborative's Training Institute. This is a leadership role that includes teaching sewing, and design, supplemented with adjunct instructors. The Manager must have proficient administrative skills to upkeep and update program data and metrics routinely. The Manager owns recruitment and admissions, day-to-day program operations, and relationship management with participants, mentors, and external partners. The Manager is a dynamic leader with strong facilitation skills and serves as the primary point of contact and mentor for students throughout the program. The Manager is expected to collaborate closely with the Director of Programs, Success Manager, staff members, volunteers, and external partners. All CC team members support and assist with fundraising efforts.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Teaching and Curriculum — 60%
Teach core design, pattern drafting, sewing, and basic professional development to participants, alongside adjunct instructors
Develop and enhance curricula to meet evolving industry needs
Recommend and vet adjunct instructors and facilitators for specialized modules
Manage 1-2 direct reports (Teaching Assistant) each program cycle.
Facilitate Pre-Training Institute week and student onboarding
Program Operations and Administration — 15%
Coordinate day-to-day administration including maintenance of program and participant reports, managing communications, track program outcomes, and assist with participant mentorship and tracking structures.
Manage participant assessments, including sewing machine audits and skills evaluations
Recruitment and Admissions — 10%
Lead and execute recruitment strategy, including outreach and open houses and participation in recruitment events. .
Lead the entire admissions and screening process including application review, conducting candidate assessments with colleagues, interviews.
Serve as a central recruitment partner for the organization
Relationship and Stakeholder Management — 10%
Coordinate with and organize volunteers, mentors, and guest speakers
Build and maintain relationships with external partners, including brands, cultural institutions, and community organizations
Collaborate with the Success Manager, Director of Programs, and other colleagues on cross-program initiatives
Fashion Showcase Support — 5%
Support participant readiness for graduation including business plan development and final look preparation, in partnership with the Director of Programs, who leads graduation logistics and planning.
What you can expect of us:
Supportive colleagues
Commitment to the organization’s mission
Commitment to your professional development and growth
The systems, tools, and budget necessary to succeed at your job
Clear expectations and partnership to meet your goals
Compassion
Requirements:
Required:
Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in garment construction, pattern making, sewing, and fitting
Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching, training, or facilitating for adult learners
Strong presentation and facilitation skills
Strong interpersonal and cultural competency skills. Experience working with immigrant, low income and other vulnerable communities.
Proficiency with basic computer and office software and project management tools such as Google Workspace, Canva, Monday etc..
Preferred:
Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Textile Studies or related field
Experience working in a growth-stage organization
Fashion industry experience beyond garment construction, such as merchandising, production, or retail
Proficiency in project management; experience with program administration, including maintaining
Experience in nonprofit or workforce development spaces
BENEFITS & COMPENSATION:
Benefits include generous and flexible paid time off: 4 weeks leave; paid leave the last week of the calendar year; two floating, and several other holidays; and paid family leave. Health insurance plan; transportation benefits; disability insurance; supplementary funds to support staff wellness and professional development.
This is a full-time, in-person role, Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Salary is $65,000 – $72,000 per year based on experience.
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in the position. Please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@customcollaborative.org. Please include, Training Manager in the subject line. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to accommodate inquiries regarding this position. Only candidates selected to move forward in the process will be contacted..
Custom Collaborative is committed to equity and inclusion. Everyone is encouraged to apply, including LGBTQIA+ people, people of color, and people with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected class.
