Product Development Assistant – Contract Opportunity
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Start Date: 28/09/2026
Contract Length: 31/10/2026
Pay Rate: £140 per day
Location: London, SW1P
Working Pattern: Fully site based
Key Responsibilities
Product Development
- Manage the product development critical path from initial concept through to production.
- Work closely with Designers to develop products across each category.
- Organise and manage prototype reviews and fit sessions from start to finish.
- Track the delivery of prototypes and showroom samples.
- Manage raw materials in partnership with RM Design and vendors.
- Manage press samples and ensure they are delivered on time.
- Review prototypes and coordinate the development process end to end.
- Work closely with manufacturers throughout the shoe development process.
- Ensure products meet the required quality standards from initial prototype through to production.
- Ensure collections are developed in line with brand and legal requirements.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management
- Communicate effectively with vendors and manufacturers.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with Design and Merchandising teams.
- Manage vendor relationships throughout the development process.
- Use strong influencing and interpersonal skills to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
Planning & Administration
- Manage the Product Development calendar and ensure key deadlines are met.
- Prepare Look Books, coordinating all aspects from planning through to completion.
- Maintain clear, accurate and up-to-date data on a daily basis, including:
o Bills of materials
o Sampling and production
o Purchase orders and invoicing
o Departmental tracking documents
o Shipping paperwork
- Track deliveries and follow up on any delays or issues.
- Complete ad hoc reporting and analysis as required by the Manager.
Budget & Risk Management
- Support budget management throughout the product development process.
- Complete risk assessments from initial development through to production.
- Identify and manage potential risks to timelines, quality and delivery.
People Management
- Manage and support team members as required.
- Provide clear direction and maintain effective communication within the team.
Personal Profile
The ideal candidate will have:
- Experience in footwear/Tailoring/shirting/casual wear/denim/Menswear/Womenswear product development.
- Experience sourcing and developing raw materials.
- Previous people management experience.
- Experience managing a Product Development calendar.
- Experience working closely with manufacturers on footwear/Tailoring/shirting/casual wear/denim/Menswear/Womenswear development.
- Strong relationship management skills, particularly with Design and Merchandising teams.
- Excellent communication, influencing and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to adapt to changing business requirements.
- The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and highly pressured environment.
- A collaborative, team-focused approach.
If shortlisted, a recruiter from the team will contact you within 24-48 hours for an initial discussion. The call will come from a Manchester number (either 0161 or +44 161).
Product Development Assistant in Slough employer: Guidant Global
As an Electronics Design Engineer at our client's esteemed headquarters in Stevenage, you will be part of a legacy that has supported the UK Ministry of Defence for over 70 years. The company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and professional growth, offering access to state-of-the-art facilities, including an onsite gym and coffee shop, alongside excellent transport links. With opportunities to mentor others and tackle technically challenging projects, this role promises a rewarding career path in a high-integrity environment.
