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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to innovate and manage fabric technology for kidswear.
- Company: Join NEXT, a leading UK fashion retailer with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, bonuses, health services, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's fashion while inspiring the next generation of technologists.
- Qualifications: Extensive knowledge of fabric processes and team management experience required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent growth potential and global reach.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Fabric Technology Manager - Childrenswear
Job ID: 74121
Team: Product
Location: Leicester
Job Schedule: Full time
Salary: Competitive
Posting Date: 22/01/2026
Apply Before: 05/02/2026
About the Role:
In a nutshell, the role involves:
- Leading and managing the team
- Working with the other Childrenswear Managers to develop and implement the strategy for the department
- Working collaboratively with all areas of the business
- Spearheading the innovation of new fabrics, yarns and materials, to continually improve quality standards
- Providing the expertise to manage the fabric and product approval process, overseeing critical paths to ensure on time delivery and problem solving where required
Travel will be a key part of this role visiting trade shows, factories and suppliers. There is so much more to it though as this role spans all areas of Next and is all about collaboration:
- Buying, Merchandising and Design: Starting with strategy and the early stages of product development, driving innovation and setting the highest standards of quality.
- Supply Base: Planning and strategy as well as supplier management and relationship development to ensure quality standards and compliance are met.
- Legislation and Sustainability: Providing expert fabric advice to the teams, and working with Product legislation and sustainability teams to ensure that company goals are met.
- International: Working with the International teams to ensure that Childrenswear product is developed to be compliant for the relevant international territories.
- Warehouse: A close relationship with the Next warehouses is imperative, to ensure Next customers only receive the best quality products.
- COP: Working closely with the COP team to ensure we are using compliant suppliers, factories & mills.
- Customer Services: Resolution of fabric quality complaints and safety issues.
This is a people management role. Working alongside the current Childrenswear Technology Manager, you will directly manage a strong team of 10 x Grade 2 (Technologist) direct reports. The current team has a wealth of knowledge and experience; your role will be to offer support, encourage development, inspire and empower them. Recruitment and developing the next generation of technologists will also be vital over the next few years.
About You:
You’ll have extensive hands-on knowledge of complex supply chain and fabric manufacturing processes. A strong technical background, and an understanding of sustainability targets and legal compliance for childrenswear is essential to ensure that products and fabrics are developed to meet Next’s high quality standards. You will have managed a team previously and need to demonstrate that you can inspire others, infuse energy, passion and optimism into their actions and behaviours in order to motivate.
Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call us and leave a voicemail.
Team Overview:
This is where ideas become incredible collections. Designers, Buyers, Merchandisers, and Technologists collaborate to create products our customers love. You'll spot global trends, strategically balance our range plans and meticulously test quality so every season feels fresh, inspiring and exceptional.
Explore similar opportunities across our business.
About NEXT:
You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland? We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy on-line from over 70 countries around the world! So we’ve gone global!
Challenges. Opportunities. The future. Let’s take it on at NEXT.
Technology Manager - Kidswear employer: Next Careers
Contact Detail:
Next Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technology Manager - Kidswear
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Technology Manager - Kidswear
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technology Manager role. Highlight your experience in fabric technology and team management, and don’t forget to showcase any innovative projects you've led!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about kidswear and how your background aligns with our goals at Next. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills: Since this role involves managing a strong team, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've inspired and developed your team in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Next Careers
✨Know Your Fabrics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fabric technology, especially in relation to childrenswear. Be prepared to discuss the latest innovations in materials and how they can improve quality standards. This will show that you're not just familiar with the basics but are also passionate about pushing boundaries.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be ready to share examples of how you've inspired and developed others in previous positions. Think of specific instances where you motivated your team or resolved conflicts, as this will demonstrate your ability to lead effectively.
✨Understand Sustainability and Compliance
Familiarise yourself with current legislation and sustainability targets relevant to the industry. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance while maintaining high quality standards. This shows that you’re not only technically savvy but also aligned with the company's values.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
This role requires working closely with various departments. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated with different teams, such as design or merchandising. Highlighting your teamwork skills will show that you can thrive in a collaborative environment.
