Technical Product Designer and Product Innovation Lead in Fareham

Technical Product Designer and Product Innovation Lead

Location: Office-based, Fareham, UK

On behalf of our client, we are seeking a Technical Product Designer and Product Innovation Lead to join their dynamic team. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead the design, development, and delivery of innovative and market-leading products. If you're a creative and commercially astute designer with a strong background in technical textiles and a passion for taking products from concept to final production, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

You will play a pivotal role in managing the entire product lifecycle and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring cutting-edge products to market.

Responsibilities Product Development

• Own the technical development process from conceptual design through to production.
• Translate creative design ideas into detailed technical specifications.
• Develop and manage size charts, measurements, labels, and packaging details.
• Ensure exceptional standards of fit, sizing, performance, and user experience.
• Collaborate with team members on product and range planning.

Technical & Factory Liaison

• Act as a key point of contact with overseas factories and suppliers.
• Oversee the sampling process, providing structured feedback and approval input.
• Maintain technical files, including construction details and product specifications.
• Ensure product compliance with labelling, wash/care instructions, and packaging standards.

Sampling, Testing & Organisation

• Organise and track samples, fabrics, trims, and prototypes.
• Coordinate product testing and maintain clear records of feedback and approvals.
• Keep detailed logs of timelines and design changes throughout the process.

Commercial Awareness

• Integrate design ambition with practical manufacturing constraints such as lead times and production efficiencies.
• Contribute to commercially viable decision-making processes.
• Support purchasing and production planning discussions with a practical mindset.

Wider Business Support

• Collaborate with Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Customer Service teams.
• Provide support for product launches, marketing content, and sales materials.
• Adapt to the evolving needs of a growing business environment.

Qualifications Essential

• Proven experience in technical product design or development, ideally in technical apparel.
• Extensive knowledge of garment construction, materials, and processes.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities.
• Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Clear and confident communication skills across various formats.
• Practical problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.

Desirable

• Experience liaising directly with overseas factories.
• Background in watersports, sailing, or outdoor performance products.
• Familiarity with testing, compliance, and labelling standards.
• Thrives in fast-paced or small business environments.

Day-to-Day

• Lead the development of innovative products from start to finish.
• Manage relationships with factories and suppliers, ensuring timely and quality deliveries.
• Oversee sampling and testing to maintain high product standards.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth product launches and effective marketing.
• Balance creativity with practicality to meet commercial objectives.