At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and develop fabrics and trims for exciting new fashion collections.
- Company: Join a premium fashion brand known for its innovative designs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with plenty of room for creativity and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of fashion.
- Qualifications: Experience in sourcing or fabric development; passion for fashion is a must!
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Working within the Product team, the Fabric & Sourcing Developer will support the sourcing, development and commercialisation of fabrics, trims and suppliers across Nadine Merabi collections. Partnering closely with Design, Product Development, Garment Tech and our global supply base, the role will be key in delivering premium products whilst supporting the continual development of our sourcing network, supplier partnerships and ways of working. This is a collaborative role requiring strong commercial awareness, excellent organisation and the ability to build trusted relationships internally and externally.
ROLE ACCOUNTABILITY
- Source and develop fabrics, trims and any other components for new product concepts alongside Design and Product Development.
- Work with mills and suppliers to develop and deliver elevated / exclusive qualities, finishes and embellishments aligned to the Nadine Merabi aesthetic.
- Ensure full functionality, compliance, transparency and traceability across all Merabi core fabrics and new fabric developments.
- Support seasonal innovation by sourcing new materials, trims and components as per the needs of the creative development process via the supply base, mills.
- Assist in identifying, benchmarking and onboarding new garment manufacturers, mills and trim suppliers when needed.
- Develop an understanding of supplier capability across both existing and future product categories.
RESPONSIBLE FOR:
- Build strong relationships with suppliers and act as a key day-to-day contact.
- Communicate Nadine Merabi values, standards and expectations clearly across the supply base.
- Monitor progress across fabric, trim and sample developments, ensuring agreed milestones are achieved.
- Identify risks early, propose solutions and support the removal of Critical Path bottlenecks.
- Work collaboratively across Product, Design and Garment Technology to improve speed, communication and process.
Technical & Quality Management
- Maintain fabric and trim development libraries.
- Review all fabric and trim submissions in conjunction with PD, Design and GT and ensure timely comments are shared with the supply base.
- Articulate in sharing with the supply base where improvements to fabric and trims need to be made i.e. colour, embroidery scale, stretch, weight, compositions and overall quality.
- Review all fabric and garment testing – ensuring full compliance especially in relation to REACH and Prop 65.
- Challenge back where we have failures and ensure all fabrics meet our in-house standards.
- Review all fabrics on all sampling prior to fitting to ensure they align with what has been requested or previously approved.
- Manage the Wash Care Label approval process in-line with our nominated WCL provider.
- Work with Head of Sourcing on DPP related projects in-house and with the supply base.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
Essential
- Previous experience within Sourcing, Buying, Fabric Development, Product Development or Garment Technology.
- Strong understanding of garment manufacturing from concept through to bulk production.
- Knowledge of fabric, trim and supplier sourcing.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Commercially aware with strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Able to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment.
- Proactive, adaptable and solutions focused.
Preferred
- Degree in Fashion, Textiles, Buying or Product Development.
- Experience within a premium or luxury fashion brand.
- Understanding of garment construction, fabric testing and quality standards.
- Experience working across international supply chains.
BEHAVIOURS
The successful candidate will:
- Be curious, proactive and eager to learn.
- Take ownership and be comfortable working autonomously.
- Build strong relationships through trust and collaboration.
- Balance commercial thinking with exceptional product standards.
- Challenge constructively and contribute new ideas.
- Thrive in a fast-paced environment with a positive, agile mindset.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
Within the first 12 months you will have:
- Built trusted relationships across our supplier network.
- Successfully supported new fabric, trim and supplier developments.
- Improved sourcing processes and supplier engagement.
- Contributed to stronger Critical Path performance.
- Helped elevate the quality, consistency and commerciality of Nadine Merabi collections.
Fabric & Sourcing Developer in Manchester employer: NADINE MERABI
NADINE MERABI is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and innovative work culture, perfect for creative minds passionate about luxury fashion. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and collaboration, team members are encouraged to push boundaries and explore new ideas, all while being part of a brand that values excellence and storytelling. Located in a dynamic fashion hub, employees benefit from networking opportunities and exposure to industry trends, making it a truly rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fabric & Sourcing Developer in Manchester
✨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 NADINE MERABI!
✨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 NADINE MERABI.
✨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 NADINE MERABI.
✨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 NADINE MERABI!
We think you need these skills to ace Fabric & Sourcing Developer in Manchester
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 NADINE MERABI.
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 NADINE MERABI!
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 NADINE MERABI. 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 NADINE MERABI
✨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!
