Job description

Runway Director – 2026 DIALECTIVE Showcase

New York, NY · Part-Time · Student Leadership Role

About DIALECTIVE

DIALECTIVE is a designer community and 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2023 by Helen Sotropa, Grace Gordon, Zhexuan Katherine Hu, and Runtan Desmond Du during their thesis year at Parsons. Born from a desire to uplift emerging designers outside traditional institutions, DIALECTIVE has become a trusted platform for peer-led mentorship and support.

The inaugural student-run showcase featured 20 thesis collections selected by industry professionals. Now heading into its 4th annual runway show, DIALECTIVE continues to grow as a collaborative network for young creatives entering the New York fashion industry.

Position Overview

We are seeking 4 to 5 Runway Directors to lead the planning and execution of the 2026 showcase. Titles such as Production, Communications, Finance, and Operations Directors have existed in the past - but this year, incoming Directors will define their own roles in collaboration with the team.

We are especially looking for at least 2 Fashion Design Majors to take part in leading this experience and shaping the future of the show.

This is a student leadership position that includes mentorship from DIALECTIVE’s founding team and access to a growing network of past Directors and industry contacts.

Responsibilities - LIST OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Co-lead the planning and production of the 2026 runway show
Collaborate across creative and operational areas including production, communications, finance, and partnerships
Define your individual responsibilities in alignment with the team’s goals
Support community outreach and designer selection efforts
Uphold DIALECTIVE’s mission to uplift and represent emerging designers

Qualifications

Final-year undergraduate student (Year 4 in a 4- or 5-year program)
Enrolled at a New York-based college: Parsons, FIT, Pratt, NYU, Fordham, Columbia, or LIM
Strong sense of initiative and accountability
Collaborative mindset with the ability to lead and listen
Passion for fashion, design, community, or nonprofit work

*** You do not need to be a fashion design major to apply to any DIALECTIVE positions, but only Fashion Design Majors are allowed to show in the runway.

Additional Info