Footwear Technologist

Department: Technical

Reports into: Head of Technical & Creative Development

Location: Head Office, New Bond Street, London with remote working

WHO WE ARE

Founded in Wimbledon in 1990, LK Bennett is a British accessible luxury brand defined by its cultural heritage. Our unique selection of clothing, shoes and accessories are all designed in our London-based head office and beautifully crafted in the best factories in Europe and the Far East.

As a brand that remains true to our origins, we provide authentic design and service. We offer exceptional quality in all we do and are respectful of what our customer wants and expects from us, but also know it is our responsibility to inspire.

The same intriguing contrasts that drive the brand also define the LK Bennett woman. A love of vintage eccentricity, functionality and tradition but with a desire for beautiful design and considered luxury. She appreciates simplicity and versatility.

JOB ROLE

Working at LK Bennett is more than just a job; it’s a way of life, and being such an integral part of the development of our beautiful products, the Technical department are fundamental in supporting the creation of this ‘way of life’. Not only the custodian of quality, this role is about continuously ensuring our brand proposition exceeds customer expectations, making them feel extraordinary in their LK Bennett purchases season after season.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Evaluating and reviewing product development and production specifications ensuring construction, fit, finish, trim and labelling meet our high standards in line with critical path.
• Leading fit and quality standards and working with design and buying to support and improve ranges.
• Attending fit sessions, completing, maintaining and communicating written technical specifications and packs for suppliers and factories.
• Reviewing sample fit and construction and communicating technical adjustments for consistency in fit, performance and quality. Monitoring the seal process from sample to production with the Buying team.
• Initiating wearer trials, managing the process and sharing proposals for product improvement.
• Managing and tracking chemical and physical material testing protocols in line with budget.
• Conducting site visits to ensure quality standards are being maintained, highlighting areas of concern and risk assessing products in terms of safety.
• Sharing knowledge on material performance and construction, completing and communicating material performance standards and product care labelling.
• Proactively reporting and analysing product performance, product returns and faults; utilising AQL reports, customer feedback, benchmarking, internal feedback and to provide insight into technical aspects of the development process to improve product fit and quality.
• Networking internally and externally to stay up to date with industry innovations and identify and suggest supplier base opportunities.
• Providing objective feedback on value adding, commercially proven new technology to support the supplier sourcing strategy.
• An ambassador for sustainable business practice, ethical sourcing and responsible partnerships/supplier relationships.
• Keeping updated on UK and international legislation and regulations, including British Standards and health and safety, sharing development additions around compliance changes.

WHO YOU ARE

• Knowledge and experience of premium product development and fit, pattern cutting and fabric construction.
• Experience of, or exposure to, working with international suppliers and factories with an understanding of manufacturing processes and costs.
• Previously worked within creative environments.
• Commercially astute and process driven.
• Confident to share knowledge and skills with others to achieve results.
• A team player keen to be involved in wider team and business projects.
• Keenly interested in current and future fashion and technical trends and a lover of working with luxury garments.

WHAT WE OFFER

• 25 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays.
• Day off on your birthday, so you can celebrate in style
• Early Friday finishes all year round
• Great brand discount
• Regular staff sales to refresh your wardrobe
• Life Assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Volunteering Programme