Atelier and Product Manager

Department: Product

Location: London

Reporting to: Head of Business Strategy & Development

Role Overview:

You will play a pivotal role in overseeing the entire product cycle, ensuring the timely and cost-effective delivery of our collections. You will work closely with the design and product teams to bring concepts to life while managing a small team that includes a Technical Product Developer, Pattern Cutter/Seamstress, and Product Development Assistant. Your leadership will be crucial in managing supplier relationships, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring the smooth operation of all production activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Production Planning & Coordination:
• Develop and manage end to end production schedules to meet design deadlines and collection launches.
• Allocate resources efficiently within the team, ensuring smooth workflow from pattern development to final production.
• Coordinate closely with designer and the product development team to align production with design specifications.
• Team Management:
• Lead and support your team, providing guidance to the Junior Garment Technician, Pattern Cutter/Seamstress, and Product Development Assistant.
• Monitor team performance and address any challenges that arise during the production process.
• Supplier & Factory Management:
• Build and maintain relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and factories, both locally and internationally.
• Negotiate timelines, costs, and contracts with suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective production.
• Quality Control & Garment Development:
• Oversee garment sampling, fittings, and quality checks, ensuring that all products meet the company’s high-quality standards.
• Work closely with the Junior Garment Technician and Pattern Cutter/Seamstress to troubleshoot any garment construction issues.
• Budget & Cost Management:
• Manage production budgets, ensuring that costs are controlled while maintaining product quality.
• Review material costs, production efficiencies, and negotiate pricing with suppliers to optimize production spending.
• Logistics & Delivery:
• Oversee logistics, including the delivery of materials to the production team and finished goods to stockists or clients.

Skills & Experience Required:

• Proven experience as an Atelier or Production Manager, preferably in a small or medium-sized fashion business.
• Strong knowledge of garment construction, fabrics, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and a small team effectively.
• Experience in working with suppliers, factories, and logistics.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a strong ability to collaborate across departments.
• Budget management skills, with experience in cost negotiations and financial control.