At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development from concept to pre-production, influencing suppliers and mentoring a team.
- Company: Dynamic London-based apparel business focused on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Ownership of projects, strong supplier partnerships, and a chance to shape product development.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for those passionate about sustainability and innovative product solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the fashion industry with creative freedom and responsibility.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in apparel development, strong technical knowledge, and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced Senior Product Developer to join a brilliant London-based apparel business, taking the lead on product development from initial concept right through to pre-production. This is a great role for someone who loves the detail behind making exceptional product – fabrics, trims, fit, construction, sourcing and development – but also wants the autonomy to lead projects, influence suppliers and develop a team.
The role involves working closely with Design, Technical, Production and Supply Chain to turn creative concepts into commercially viable, beautifully executed product. You’ll be getting stuck into:
- Leading product development from concept to pre-production
- Fabric and trim sourcing, development and testing
- Creating and approving tech packs, BOMs and specifications
- Working closely with international suppliers and factories
- Negotiating costs and achieving target margins
- Leading fit sessions alongside Design and Technical
- Managing sampling and pre-production approvals
- Owning the development critical path across multiple projects
- Signing off fabrics, trims, branding and development samples
- Exploring new materials, techniques and sustainable solutions
- Working directly with clients on development projects
- Leading and mentoring the wider Product Development team
Who are we looking for? You’ll need 7+ years' experience in apparel product development and a seriously strong understanding of how garments are actually made. Your background could be within ready-to-wear, premium apparel, uniforms, workwear or technical product – we’re more interested in your technical knowledge, product instinct and ability to make things happen.
You’ll bring:
- Brilliant fabric, trim and construction knowledge
- Strong fit and pattern understanding
- Experience managing suppliers and factories
- Confident costing and negotiation skills
- Excellent technical drawing skills
- Illustrator and strong Excel skills
- Experience managing complex critical paths
- Strong commercial awareness
- Leadership or mentoring experience
- A genuine interest in innovation, sustainability and better ways of developing product
It’s a role with real ownership. You’ll be able to influence how product is developed, introduce new ideas and materials, build strong supplier partnerships and help shape the development function – while still staying close to the actual product. Perfect for an experienced Product Developer who wants more responsibility, more influence and plenty of variety.
Senior Product Developer employer: Fashion & Retail Personnel
As a leading luxury watch retailer, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and high-performance work environment that champions brand integrity and innovation. Based in London, our headquarters offers an exceptional opportunity for growth and development, with a comprehensive benefits package and a culture that values collaboration and excellence. Join us to lead a talented team and make a significant impact in the luxury market while enjoying the rewards of a competitive salary and bonus structure.
Contact Details:
Fashion & Retail Personnel Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Product Developer
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like Fashion & Retail Personnel!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including Fashion & Retail Personnel.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for Fashion & Retail Personnel.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at Fashion & Retail Personnel!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Product Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at Fashion & Retail Personnel.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to Fashion & Retail Personnel!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at Fashion & Retail Personnel. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fashion & Retail Personnel
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
