Head of (Physical) Product in London

Head of (Physical) Product in London

London Full-Time 50000 - 65000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the lifecycle of innovative physical products for top brands.
  • Company: Dynamic gifting company disrupting the industry with creativity.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, remote work options, and team socials.
  • Other info: Exciting growth opportunities in a collaborative and supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Join a creative team and shape unique gifting experiences globally.
  • Qualifications: 8+ years in Buying, Merchandising, or Design, with team management experience.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.

We are a dynamic, creatively led company at the forefront of the gifting industry. We are focused on creating truly unique experiences for some of the world’s most coveted brands, including Netflix, OpenAI, Spotify, and many more. There is huge demand for interesting and engaging gifts that help brands communicate, and we see ourselves as the disruptors in this space. We are looking for someone who is passionate about physical products and eager to be part of an exciting growth story as we scale into a global gifting brand.

Role Overview

As the Head of Physical Product, you will lead the entire lifecycle of our tangible goods. In a business that prides itself on creativity, product is our most vital asset. You will bridge the gaps between conceptual design, sourcing, and market launch, ensuring every item meets our high standards of innovation and quality. You will execute the product vision by balancing our signature bespoke creative lines with curated 3rd-party wholesale brands, working across both the corporate and consumer sides of the business.

What we're looking for

  • The Curation Expert: You may have a background as a Buyer or Merchandiser, perhaps having honed your eye for curation and commerciality within a high-end concept store.
  • The Global Scout: You are a regular visitor to international design and trade shows—from the inspiration of Maison&Objet and Design Week to the manufacturing scale of the Canton Spring Fair—you know the circuits inside out.
  • The Constant Creator: You live and breathe product. You are perpetually thinking about how objects are made, and your sketchbook is never far away as you iterate on new materials, finishes, or disruptive concepts.

Key Responsibilities

  • End-to-End Product Development (Primary Focus): Manage the entire product lifecycle from initial conceptualization and prototyping through to mass production. Work closely with the Creative Director (Founder) to bring visionary gifting concepts to life. Oversee the transition from bespoke "one-off" designs to scalable, high-quality manufacturing. Ensure all products are fit for purpose across both corporate and consumer channels.
  • Team Leadership & Management: Lead and mentor the Sourcing Team (currently a team of 4). Manage the Buyer & Merchandiser to ensure accurate forecasting and inventory purchasing. Foster a culture of lateral thinking, excellence, and collaborative problem-solving within the product department.
  • Operational Excellence & Quality Control: Ensure rigorous quality standards are met for every physical item delivered. Manage costs and optimize the supply chain to maintain healthy margins without sacrificing creative integrity. Oversee sourcing strategies for both custom-made bespoke items and 3rd-party brand partnerships.
  • Strategy & Catalog Roadmap: Identify market gaps in the luxury gifting sector and set long-term product goals. Define the roadmap for physical product ranges that align with our brand and clients. Translate market insights and consumer behavior into profitable product catalogs.

About You

  • Experience: 8+ years in a Buying, Merchandising, or Design role, preferably within the gifting, or an aligned creative vertical. Experience of managing people/team (you will be responsible for nurturing and developing your team, through 1-1, goal setting and aligning on KPI’s.
  • Track Record: Proven success in developing, managing, and delivering "own-brand" or bespoke product ranges.
  • Technical Skills: Familiarity with Project Management software (we use ClickUp).
  • Mindset: A team player who understands the power of collaboration and thrives in a fast-paced environment where no two days (or projects) are the same.
  • Detail Oriented: Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-end finishing.

Reporting Structure

You will work as a senior leader in the business, running and managing the physical product and working closely with the Creative Director (Founder) and reporting into the Managing Director. You will form part of the Senior Leadership Team, playing an active role in wider business initiatives, and will provide regular monthly updates to the team on new product development, forecasting, and key company-wide priorities. You will present at Town Hall meetings, lead from the front, and consistently embody our core values of imagination, impact, thoughtfulness, and enthusiasm as a senior member of the Bespoke-ly team.

What We Offer

  • Growth Opportunities: Expand your skills and grow within a rapidly evolving company.
  • Collaborative Culture: Be part of a supportive team that values creativity and innovation.
  • Employee Perks: Enjoy a range of benefits designed to enhance your work-life balance and career development.

Contract: Full time, 40 hours per week*, Monday - Friday * Please note, this is a full-time role based in our Ladbroke Grove office, with the option to work one day a week from home.

Salary: £60,000 - £75,000, based on experience

Benefits: 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, Nest Pension, One day per week working from home, Two weeks remote work per year, Team Socials, Employee Discount, Vitality Membership, Art Pass, Birthday Leave, Finder’s Fee, Green Commute Cycle Initiative, CycleSaver, Sabbatical Leave, Enhanced Parental Leave.

To apply please send your CV and cover letter to Ned at ned@bespokely.cc as well as recruitment@bespokely.cc.

Head of (Physical) Product in London employer: Bespoke-ly

At Bespoke-ly, we pride ourselves on being a dynamic and creatively led company that is revolutionising the gifting industry. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and growth, offering employees the chance to expand their skills while working with some of the world's most coveted brands. With a range of benefits including generous annual leave, flexible working options, and a commitment to employee well-being, we provide a supportive environment where creativity thrives and every team member can make a meaningful impact.

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Contact Detail:

Bespoke-ly Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of (Physical) Product in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the gifting industry. Attend trade shows, workshops, and local meetups to make those valuable connections that could lead to your next big opportunity.

Tip Number 2

Show off your passion for physical products! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas and insights about product development. Let them see your creative side and how you can contribute to their vision.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and product launches. This will not only impress them but also help you tailor your answers to show how you can fit into their unique culture and goals.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our exciting growth story.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of (Physical) Product in London

Product Lifecycle Management
Curation and Commerciality
Team Leadership
Mentoring
Sourcing Strategies
Quality Control
Cost Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for physical products shine through. We want to see that you live and breathe product design, so share your experiences and ideas that reflect your passion for creating unique gifting experiences.

Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight relevant experience in buying, merchandising, or design, and connect it to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our vision!

Be Specific About Your Achievements:Don’t just list your previous roles; tell us about your accomplishments! Use specific examples of how you've successfully managed product lifecycles or led teams. This helps us understand the impact you've made in your past positions.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our dynamic team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Bespoke-ly

Know Your Products Inside Out

As the Head of Physical Product, you need to demonstrate a deep understanding of product lifecycles. Research the company’s past and current products, and be ready to discuss how you would enhance their offerings or introduce new concepts that align with their creative vision.

Showcase Your Curation Skills

Prepare examples of your previous work in buying or merchandising, especially in high-end environments. Be ready to discuss how you identify market gaps and curate products that resonate with both corporate and consumer audiences.

Emphasise Team Leadership Experience

Highlight your experience in managing teams, particularly in nurturing talent and fostering collaboration. Share specific instances where you’ve led a team through challenges, ensuring everyone is aligned on goals and KPIs.

Bring Your Creative Ideas

Since creativity is at the heart of this role, come prepared with innovative ideas for potential products or improvements. Use your sketchbook to illustrate concepts and show how you think outside the box while maintaining quality and operational excellence.