Talent Development Manager

This is a Full Time Job

The Talent Development Manager is responsible for shaping and guiding the careers of We Speak's models from initial go-see meetings with the agency and signing, to full career development. This role ensures models are positioned for success through portfolio development, test shoots, industry education, and bookings, all while maintaining We Speak's high ethical and professional standards.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, proactive, and deeply knowledgeable about the fashion industry, including trends, key creatives, and model development strategies. This role requires a blend of hands-on coaching, scouting, strategic portfolio development, and industry outreach to ensure We Speak's talent remains competitive in the market.

Key ResponsibilitiesTalent Development & Scouting

Contribute to the team's scouting initiatives
Assess and sign new models, ensuring they align with We Speak's brand vision and industry needs.
Oversee the growth and management of models across all boards, ensuring career progression and alignment with agency goals.
Conduct first scouting calls and follow-up meetings, determining potential and fit for representation.
Guide models on portfolio development, test shoots, digitals, and overall industry preparedness.
Ensure models are consistently prepared for bookings, castings, and industry meetings, providing proactive coaching.
Advise talent on appearance, presentation, and marketability with sensitivity and professionalism.
Maintain accurate, up-to-date model measurements and portfolio materials.
Track model progress, identify gaps, and strategize next steps for career advancement.
Organize and lead development and orientation calls within two weeks of signing new talent.

Portfolio Strategy & Industry Collaboration

Refine model portfolios, ensuring alignment with industry standards and trends.
Collaborate on selecting top photographers for test shoots and discussing key industry contacts to leverage for model growth.
Ensure that all models maintain high-quality, current digitals from the moment they sign with We Speak.
Strategize ways to elevate We Speak's brand through model portfolios and high-profile partnerships.

Industry Research & Outreach

Stay in tune with industry trends, agency portfolios, and successful models to ensure We Speak's talent remains competitive.
Conduct ongoing research on top photographers, stylists, makeup artists, and casting directors to build a strong industry network.
Maintain relationships with key creatives and industry professionals, engaging in proactive outreach for model collaborations.
Secure high-quality test shoot opportunities with top-tier creative teams.

Test Shoot Coordination & Model Readiness

Uphold We Speak's test shoot standards, negotiating agreements to maximize images received.
Arrange paid test shoots for models as needed.
Make final selects from all test shoots, ensuring strong portfolio cohesion and marketability.
Set clear goals and provide performance feedback to models, holding them accountable for development milestones.

Strategic Planning & Process Optimization

Identify and implement efficiency improvements in model development workflows.
Develop strategies to increase We Speak's visibility and enhance model opportunities.
Attend weekly team check-ins to track and relay goals and progress.

Who You Are

Highly organized - You excel at managing multiple moving parts and ensuring all details are covered.
Industry-savvy - You stay ahead of trends, understand key creatives, and know what it takes to build a successful model portfolio.
Proactive & strategic - You anticipate industry shifts and position models for long-term success.
Strong communicator - You provide clear, constructive, and sensitive feedback to models while maintaining positive working relationships.
Solution-oriented - You tackle challenges with a growth mindset and actively seek ways to improve We Speak's talent development process.

Why Join We Speak?

Work at an innovative, forward-thinking agency that prioritizes ethical representation and model well-being.
Collaborate with top industry creatives to build and elevate emerging talent.
Play a key role in shaping model careers and redefining industry standards.
Be part of a tight-knit, passionate team dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
Benefits include health insurance