At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development from design to delivery, driving commercial success across Europe and the US.
- Company: Dynamic fashion brand with a global presence and innovative approach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, international travel opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of fashion.
- Other info: Exciting role with opportunities for growth and influence in a global market.
- Why this job: Join a leading team and make a significant impact in the fast-fashion industry.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in fashion with strong leadership and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: London, UK
Scope: Merchandising, Design, Buying, Pattern-making, Production – Europe & US markets
Role Purpose: Lead UR’s European product organisation, owning the full design-to-delivery cycle. Drive commercial performance, regional differentiation, and cross-border collaboration with China HQ.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define product strategy (DNA, category mix, pricing, regional assortment).
- Manage end-to-end product lifecycle: Design → Buy → Launch → Track → React → Review.
- Own OTB, inventory turnover, gross margin, sell-through, and hit-rate.
- Upgrade pattern-making, production, and fabric innovation; build global supply chain.
- Coordinate with logistics for store/e‑commerce fulfilment.
- Build and develop an international product team.
- Advise group leadership on product and merchandising strategy.
Requirements:
- 15+ years in fashion/fast-fashion product/merchandising/buying; 5+ years at CPO/VP Product level.
- Preferred: global product leadership at Zara/Inditex, Uniqlo, H&M, Mango, or ASOS.
- Full-chain expertise: design, buying, pattern-making, production, logistics.
- Proven experience setting up cross-border product systems (China–Europe/US alignment).
- Strong commercial acumen – regional consumer, pricing, category dynamics.
- Cross-cultural leadership – able to manage European, US, and Asian teams.
- Fluent business English (native/near-native); Mandarin a plus.
- Based in London, frequent international travel.
Top 3 Must-Haves:
- Global fast-fashion product leadership (CPO/VP level).
- End-to-end product value chain management.
- Cross-cultural leadership and China–West collaboration.
Director of Product Development in London employer: KOS International Limited
As a leading player in the fast-fashion industry, our company offers an exceptional work environment in London, where creativity meets commercial acumen. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and cross-border teamwork, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a focus on global product leadership and a commitment to excellence, we empower our employees to drive impactful results while enjoying the vibrant lifestyle that London has to offer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Product Development in London
✨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 KOS International Limited!
✨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 KOS International Limited.
✨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 KOS International Limited.
✨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 KOS International Limited!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Product Development in London
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 KOS International Limited.
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 KOS International Limited!
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 KOS International Limited. 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 KOS International Limited
✨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!
