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- Tasks: Lead the sourcing and development of raw materials for luxury footwear and accessories.
- Company: Russell & Bromley is a renowned British luxury fashion brand with a rich heritage since 1880.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, a creative environment, and opportunities for growth in a family-owned business.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting transformation and contribute to sustainable fashion while working with top suppliers.
- Qualifications: 5-8 years in material development, strong knowledge of leather and textiles, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Join us at our new HQ in Soho and help shape the future of luxury fashion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a technically skilled and highly organised Product Developer to lead our raw materials sourcing and development process at Russell & Bromley. Working as part of the in-house Product Development team, you’ll take full ownership of all raw materials, leathers, trims, and hardware used across our footwear and accessories collections — from initial sourcing through to lab dips, testing, and bulk compliance. This is a pivotal, hands-on role that partners closely with Design, PD, and our global suppliers to ensure every material meets the highest standards of quality, performance, and sustainability.
About the Role
- Lead the sourcing and development of all leathers, textiles, trims, and hardware for seasonal collections
- Maintain a detailed multi-season materials library with swatches, costs, technical specs, and compliance data
- Manage lab dips, colour approvals, and ensure consistency across articles and suppliers
- Partner with tanneries and mills in Italy, Spain, and Portugal to develop premium materials aligned with our creative direction
- Ensure all materials meet REACH, sustainability, and durability standards through rigorous testing
- Track and forecast all sampling requirements, working closely with suppliers to ensure critical path milestones are met
- Bring fresh ideas and innovation into the team through market research, trade shows, and supplier appointments
- Compile final approved materials for bulk production handover
About You
- 5–8 years’ experience in material development within footwear, leather goods, or accessories
- Advanced knowledge of leather, textiles, synthetics, and hardware construction
- Extensive supplier network across Europe, with hands-on experience working with Italian and Spanish tanneries
- Strong grasp of sustainable sourcing, compliance testing, and industry regulations
- Exceptional organisation and attention to detail, able to manage multiple materials and deadlines across the season
- Great communication skills, working cross-functionally with Design, PD, CSR, and global suppliers
At Russell & Bromley we are an equal opportunities employer and we value diversity and inclusion in our team. We encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and identities. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process please let us know by email.
Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that we will only be able to contact successful candidates within two weeks.
Product Developer - Raw Materials employer: Russell & Bromley
Contact Detail:
Russell & Bromley Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Developer - Raw Materials
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in raw materials and sustainable sourcing. This knowledge will not only help you stand out during interviews but also demonstrate your passion for the industry and alignment with Russell & Bromley's commitment to sustainability.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the footwear and accessories sector, especially those who have experience with European tanneries and mills. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed material development projects in the past. Highlight your organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines, as these are crucial for the role at Russell & Bromley.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on compliance testing and industry regulations related to materials. Being knowledgeable about REACH and other standards will show your commitment to quality and sustainability, which is essential for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Developer - Raw Materials
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Product Developer in raw materials. Highlight your relevant experience in material sourcing and development in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in footwear, leather goods, or accessories. Emphasise your knowledge of sustainable sourcing and compliance testing, as these are key aspects of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for luxury fashion and your understanding of Russell & Bromley’s brand values. Mention specific examples of how your skills align with their needs, particularly in managing supplier relationships and ensuring quality standards.
Showcase Your Network: If you have an extensive supplier network across Europe, make sure to mention it. Highlight any hands-on experience with Italian and Spanish tanneries, as this will demonstrate your capability to fulfil the role's requirements.
How to prepare for a job interview at Russell & Bromley
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
As a Product Developer, you'll need to demonstrate your technical expertise in raw materials. Be prepared to discuss specific materials you've worked with, including leathers and textiles, and how you ensured their quality and compliance with industry standards.
✨Highlight Your Supplier Relationships
Russell & Bromley values strong partnerships with suppliers. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with tanneries and mills, particularly in Italy and Spain, to develop premium materials that align with creative directions.
✨Emphasise Your Organisational Skills
This role requires exceptional organisation and attention to detail. Prepare to discuss how you manage multiple materials and deadlines, perhaps by sharing a specific project where your organisational skills made a significant impact.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
Sustainability is key in this role. Be ready to talk about your understanding of sustainable sourcing practices and any experience you have with compliance testing. Showing genuine passion for sustainability will resonate well with the company's values.
