Fabric Technologist - The Set in Market Harborough

Working Pattern: Typically 5 days in the office, with core hours flexible between 8am-6pm.

The Garment and Fabric Technology team at NEXT has a wealth of knowledge and experience across territories, and we are looking for a Fabric Technologist to join us. This is an ideal opportunity to show us what you can do and to also soak up all the knowledge of those around you.

THE SET is Next’s own groundbreaking brand, built on effortless style and modern versatility. We create sophisticated, timeless, and affordable pieces designed to work harder for the customer — from perfectly considered multipacks to standalone essentials that mix and match seamlessly, unlocking endless outfit possibilities. We believe great design should be accessible to everyone. Our ambition is simple: to become the go-to destination for modern, wearable style. Affordable Style. Timeless Essentials. Effortless Trends. We move fast, think big, and are building momentum every day — and we’re looking for ambitious people who want to do the same. Here, you’ll own your work, trust your judgement, and have the freedom to make an impact. If you’re ready to lead, innovate, and push product forward, THE SET is where you belong.

What You’ll Take On

• Working closely with a Fabric Sourcer, and in partnership with Design and Buying teams, you’ll play a key role in shaping fabric development across all genders — ensuring every material is commercially sound and fit for purpose.
• Develop and maintain technical fabric standards, working within Next’s established requirements while actively looking for smarter, more efficient, and innovative ways of working.
• Ensure fabrics meet performance, quality, and compliance standards, supporting consistent product delivery across all categories and genders.
• Manage and build supplier relationships, working collaboratively to improve consistency, capability, and value.
• Problem solve at an early stage of development, identifying risks quickly and working with partners to find practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Support continuous improvement, challenging existing processes where appropriate and contributing ideas to improve speed, efficiency, and product outcome.
• Work closely with our Fabric Sourcer, Design and Buying teams, translating creative direction and commercial needs into practical, viable fabric solutions across the range.

This is a hands-on role where strong technical judgement, commercial awareness, and collaborative working come together to deliver great value products without compromising quality or performance.

What You’ll Bring

• Extensive Fabric Knowledge: A relevant qualification in Textile Technology (or a related field) and a proven track record of managing the technical lifecycle of fabrics.
• A Critical Eye: An exceptional eye for technical detail, allowing you to spot potential performance issues before they reach production.
• Performance Insight: A deep understanding of how fabrics behave.
• Clear Communication: The ability to translate complex technical data into "plain English" for Designers, Buyers, and suppliers.
• Organisation in Motion: The ability to stay grounded and organised during busy periods, managing multiple developments and deadlines simultaneously.
• Solutions-Oriented Mindset: When a fabric fails a test, you use your experience to find a practical, safe, and cost-effective solution.
• Collaborative Spirit: You thrive in a multi-functional team but are equally comfortable working on your own initiative as a senior technical authority.

Sponsorship Candidates wishing to apply who would require sponsorship for this role will be required to meet the Home Office sponsorship requirements. For further information please see: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa. We encourage early applications for our roles, as our recruitment process begins as soon as the role is advertised. If we successfully fill the position, this advert may close earlier than planned.