At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the product development process for exciting apparel projects from concept to production.
- Company: Join a growing apparel business with a collaborative and entrepreneurial culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Mentor junior team members and drive innovative product creation.
- Why this job: Make a visible impact in a dynamic environment while shaping the future of product development.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in product development, especially in sportswear or activewear.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Product Development Manager to join a growing apparel business. This newly created role is ideal for a Product Development Manager, Senior Product Developer, Product Development Lead or Apparel Development Manager looking to take ownership of the product development process whilst supporting the growth of a high-performing Product Development team.
Reporting to the Head of Product & Sourcing, you will lead end-to-end product development across apparel categories, working closely with Design, Sourcing, Technical, Commercial and Supply Chain teams to bring products from concept through to production. This role offers a unique blend of hands-on product development, supplier management, team leadership and strategic involvement.
Key Responsibilities- Manage the end-to-end apparel product development process.
- Lead garment development from concept through to production.
- Collaborate with Design, Technical, Sourcing and Commercial teams.
- Drive fit sessions, garment construction reviews and product approvals.
- Develop fabrics, trims and materials with suppliers.
- Manage supplier relationships and factory communication.
- Oversee critical path management and seasonal timelines.
- Ensure product quality, fit, performance and cost targets are achieved.
- Support sourcing initiatives and supplier development projects.
- Mentor and develop junior Product Development team members.
- Identify process improvements and contribute to the growth of the Product Development function.
- 7+ years' experience in Product Development, Apparel Development or Technical Product Development.
- Experience within sportswear, activewear, performance apparel, athleisure, fashion apparel or lifestyle brands.
- Strong knowledge of garment construction, fit, fabrics and manufacturing.
- Experience managing offshore suppliers and development partners.
- Strong understanding of critical path management and product lifecycle processes.
- Experience working closely with sourcing, production and commercial teams.
- Previous team leadership, mentoring or management experience desirable.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
We would be particularly interested in candidates with experience as:
- Senior Product Developer
- Product Development Manager
- Apparel Product Developer
- Product Development Lead
- Apparel Development Manager
- Technical Product Development Manager
- Sportswear Product Developer
- Activewear Product Developer
- Garment Technologist with Product Development responsibility
- Product Development & Sourcing Manager
- Excellent salary and career development
- Leadership opportunity.
- Opportunity to help build and shape the Product Development function.
- Exposure to Product Development, Sourcing and Product Creation.
- Career progression opportunities.
- Collaborative and entrepreneurial environment.
- Ability to make a visible impact within a growing business.
If you are passionate about product creation, apparel development, sourcing and bringing innovative products to market, we would love to hear from you.
Senior Product Development Manager in Luton employer: Global Fashion Company
Join a dynamic and innovative apparel business as a Senior Product Development Manager, where you will thrive in a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment. With excellent salary packages, career progression opportunities, and the chance to shape the Product Development function, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact while working alongside passionate professionals in the sportswear and activewear industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Product Development Manager in Luton
✨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 Global Fashion Company!
✨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 Global Fashion Company.
✨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 Global Fashion Company.
✨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 Global Fashion Company!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Product Development Manager in Luton
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 Global Fashion Company.
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 Global Fashion Company!
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 Global Fashion Company. 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 Global Fashion Company
✨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!
