At a Glance
- Tasks: Evaluate product development, ensure quality standards, and manage technical specifications.
- Company: LK Bennett is a British luxury brand known for its stylish clothing and accessories.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, early Friday finishes, great discounts, and a birthday day off!
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that values quality and sustainability in fashion.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of premium product development and experience with international suppliers required.
- Other info: Remote working options available; join us in shaping the future of luxury fashion!
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ 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
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 with professionals in the footwear industry, especially those who have experience with premium brands. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to gain insights and potentially connect with someone at 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 product development and fit during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved product quality or addressed challenges in past roles, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Footwear Technologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements for 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 your knowledge of premium product development, pattern cutting, and fabric construction. Mention any experience with international suppliers and factories, as well as your understanding of manufacturing processes.
Showcase Your Passion: Demonstrate your keen interest in fashion and technical trends within your application. Share examples of how you have previously worked with luxury garments or contributed to creative environments, showcasing your enthusiasm for the industry.
Proofread and Personalise: Before submitting your application, proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Personalise your cover letter by addressing it to the hiring manager if possible, and express why you are specifically interested in working at LK Bennett.
How to prepare for a job interview at LK Bennett
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your understanding of premium product development, fit, and fabric construction. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Fashion
Express your keen interest in current and future fashion trends. Share insights on how you stay updated with industry innovations and how this knowledge can benefit the company.
✨Prepare for Fit Sessions
Since attending fit sessions is a key responsibility, be ready to discuss your experience with evaluating fit and quality standards. Bring examples of how you've successfully communicated technical adjustments in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
LK Bennett values teamwork, so be sure to illustrate your ability to work collaboratively. Share instances where you've contributed to team projects or supported colleagues in achieving common goals.