Footwear Technologist

Footwear Technologist

Slough Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join us as a Footwear Technologist, ensuring our products meet high standards of quality and design.
  • Company: LK Bennett is a British luxury brand known for its stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, early Friday finishes, great discounts, and a day off on your birthday!
  • Why this job: Be part of a creative team that values quality and innovation in the fashion industry.
  • Qualifications: Experience in premium product development, fit, and fabric construction is essential.
  • Other info: Remote working options available; perfect for balancing work and life!

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

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

Footwear Technologist employer: LK Bennett

At LK Bennett, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of London. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our supportive environment, where you can thrive as a Footwear Technologist while enjoying generous benefits such as 25 days of holiday, early Friday finishes, and a unique day off for your birthday. Join us in crafting beautiful products that inspire our customers and experience the rewarding journey of working with a brand that values quality, creativity, and sustainability.
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Contact Detail:

LK Bennett Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Footwear Technologist

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with LK Bennett's brand ethos and product range. Understanding their unique blend of vintage eccentricity and luxury will help you align your passion for footwear with their vision, making you a more compelling candidate.

✨Tip Number 2

Network within the fashion industry, especially with professionals who have experience in premium product development. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals to LK Bennett.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on the latest trends in footwear technology and sustainable practices. Being knowledgeable about innovations in materials and manufacturing processes will demonstrate your commitment to quality and sustainability, which is crucial for this role.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with fit sessions and quality standards in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved product quality or resolved issues in past roles, as this will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.

We think you need these skills to ace Footwear Technologist

Product Development Knowledge
Fit and Pattern Cutting Expertise
Fabric Construction Understanding
Quality Assurance Skills
Technical Specification Communication
Sample Evaluation and Review
Material Testing Protocol Management
Supplier Relationship Management
Knowledge of Manufacturing Processes
Commercial Awareness
Problem-Solving Skills
Attention to Detail
Networking Skills
Understanding of Sustainable Practices
Familiarity with UK and International Legislation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Footwear Technologist position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in product development, fit, and quality standards.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience with premium product development, pattern cutting, and working with international suppliers. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and knowledge in these areas.

Showcase Your Passion: Express your enthusiasm for the fashion industry and luxury garments in your application. Mention any current trends you are following or innovations in footwear technology that excite you, as this shows your commitment to the field.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role focused on quality and technical specifications.

How to prepare for a job interview at LK Bennett

✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge

As a Footwear Technologist, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of premium product development, fit, and fabric construction. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your expertise in these areas.

✨Familiarise Yourself with LK Bennett's Brand Values

Research LK Bennett's heritage and brand ethos. Understanding their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction will help you align your answers with their values during the interview, showing that you're a good cultural fit.

✨Prepare for Practical Assessments

You may be asked to evaluate product specifications or discuss technical adjustments during the interview. Brush up on your skills in reviewing sample fits and communicating necessary changes, as this will likely be a key part of the role.

✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Fashion

Express your keen interest in current and future fashion trends, especially in luxury garments. Sharing your insights on industry innovations can set you apart and show your enthusiasm for the role and the brand.

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