I am an innovative design leader with extensive experience managing and designing apparel from luxury to commercial levels. I specialize in concept creation, trend analysis, sourcing, and development, and I have a proven track record of guiding design teams and projects from concept to market. My approach blends strategic brand thinking with hands-on product development to deliver compelling, market-ready collections. Based in Europe with global experience across North America and Europe, I drive market positioning through research, sustainability initiatives, and brand storytelling. I thrive in collaborative environments partnering with merchandising, marketing, and product teams to translate trends into commercially successful lines.

Josué Asselin-Bienvenue

I am an innovative design leader with extensive experience managing and designing apparel from luxury to commercial levels. I specialize in concept creation, trend analysis, sourcing, and development, and I have a proven track record of guiding design teams and projects from concept to market. My approach blends strategic brand thinking with hands-on product development to deliver compelling, market-ready collections. Based in Europe with global experience across North America and Europe, I drive market positioning through research, sustainability initiatives, and brand storytelling. I thrive in collaborative environments partnering with merchandising, marketing, and product teams to translate trends into commercially successful lines.

Available to hire

I am an innovative design leader with extensive experience managing and designing apparel from luxury to commercial levels. I specialize in concept creation, trend analysis, sourcing, and development, and I have a proven track record of guiding design teams and projects from concept to market. My approach blends strategic brand thinking with hands-on product development to deliver compelling, market-ready collections.

Based in Europe with global experience across North America and Europe, I drive market positioning through research, sustainability initiatives, and brand storytelling. I thrive in collaborative environments partnering with merchandising, marketing, and product teams to translate trends into commercially successful lines.

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Work Experience

Head of Design Consultant at ISTO.
January 1, 2022 - Present
Managed design and development for a sustainable clothing brand in Portugal, ensuring transparency and ethical practices. Conducted sustainable trend research, identifying and implementing innovative materials (e.g., Bananatex, recycled wool) and mineral dye techniques, contributing to an 80% increase in eco-friendly product offerings. Sourced and developed innovative materials to strengthen the brand's sustainability profile and long-term environmental goals.
Trends, Design and Branding Consultant at RCL - Reitmans Canada Ltd/Ltée
January 1, 2021 - February 1, 2025
Based in Europe, conducted trend forecasting for all three Reitmans brands (RW&CO., Reitmans, and Penningtons) totaling $96M in revenue across 400 stores. Performed comprehensive store and trade-show research across Europe to identify key trends and consumer preferences, aligning product offerings. Established market research and developed product brand strategy for the relaunch of RW&CO., elevating brand awareness.
Director of Design Womenswear Wovens & Knits at EXPRESS
January 1, 2019 - January 1, 2020
Led design team and overall development for all tailored and casual women's apparel. Collaborated with the EVP of Design on concepts, trends, colors, styling of key looks, and store mock-ups for monthly deliveries. Managed design development and calendar of over 400 programs and 1000 colorways each season. Partnered with merchandising on sale strategies and marketing big ideas for both store and e-commerce. Conducted on-site European trend research and attended Premiere Vision twice yearly. Managed sourcing and design development for the long-term environmental sustainability plan.
Visiting teacher for Fashion Studio: Concepts, Trends & Criteria at PRATT UNIVERSITY
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2018
Developed and delivered a comprehensive curriculum on fashion design fundamentals, enhancing student understanding and engagement. Fostered creative thinking and design skills, preparing students for successful careers in fashion design. Leveraged industry insights and trend analysis to inform teaching materials, ensuring relevance and up-to-date knowledge.
Director of Design Consultant denim, Wovens & Knits at GAP
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2019
Designed Gap 50th Anniversary Capsule Collection and 1969 Premium Denim, enhancing brand heritage and consumer engagement. Collaborated with Creative Director to build concepts and determine must-have trends for Spring/Summer 2020, ensuring alignment with market demands. Served as design consultant for all Women’s Denim categories for Spring 2020, contributing to cohesive and innovative product offerings.
Director of Design Women’s Soft Woven and Fast Collections at BANANA REPUBLIC
January 1, 2006 - January 1, 2018
Managed a team of six designers and overall development for Soft Woven (tops, dresses and skirts), totaling a yearly retail business of over $220M and representing 40% of the women’s business.

Education

Bachelor in Fashion Design at FIT- Fashion Institute of Technology
September 1, 1998 - June 12, 2020
Magna Cum Laude
Bachelor in Fashion Design International at Polimoda, Florence, Italy
January 12, 2026 - January 12, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Retail, Consumer Goods, Manufacturing, Professional Services, Other