At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical strategies to optimise product quality and drive sustainable initiatives.
- Company: Join Lipsy, a bold and dynamic fashion brand under NEXT.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, bonuses, flexible hours, and fantastic learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values individuality and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fashion while developing your skills in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fashion retail and strong technical knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Job Description
- Location |
- Head Office, Tottenham Court Road, London
- Working style |
- Hybrid
At NEXT Wholly Owned Brands, we’re a collective of London-based fashion and lifestyle brands.
From our beginnings with Lipsy in 1998, to becoming part of the UK’s largest fashion retailer, NEXT, in 2008 we’ve evolved into a group of bold, design‑led brands, each with its unique identity.
At the heart of our business is a passionate team driven by creativity, innovation, and a shared ambition to deliver exceptional results.
We foster a culture where individuality is celebrated, curiosity is encouraged, and challenging the status quo is part of how we grow.
Role Purpose
The Technical Lead acts as a key Strategic Partner, focused on optimising the supply base, driving product quality, reducing return rates, and leading sustainable fabric initiatives.
This role requires close collaboration with Buying, Design, and Technical teams to ensure operational foresight and brand growth.
You will take ownership of supply chain risk management, fit optimisation, and team development while establishing technical standards that protect brand integrity and commercial performance.
- Role Responsibilities
- Strategic Supply Chain & Forward Planning
- Act as a core Strategic Partner alongside the Buying Manager, Head of Brand (HOB), and Design Manager to define service requirements, set performance standards, and present forward-thinking strategic plans.
- Assess and manage core suppliers using structured Supplier Review and Feedback methodologies, participating in Top Supplier Reviews to address operational trade issues.
- Coordinate monthly strategic meetings, conduct Phasing Reviews to capture challenges and wins, contribute to Vision and Sign‑off meetings, and collate clear, actionable QFN feedback.
- Maintain a solution‑focused approach to complex operational challenges, spearheading initiatives to elevate overall product quality and resolve supply chain bottlenecks.
- Product Development, Fit & Return Rate Optimization
- Seasonally assess and manage product blocks across categories, leading Brand Fit Days to optimise product fits, refine construction, and ensure sizing consistency.
- Analyse and share monthly returns data, translating insights into actionable development feedback during fit reviews to drive sell‑through (ST) on future collections and systematically reduce return rates.
- Sustainability & Fabric Sourcing Strategy
- Drive the brand's Sustainable Fabric Approach in close collaboration with central Sustainability and Fabric Tech teams.
- Maintain a Key Fabrics Library and an updated list of available mills, supporting tender processes to consolidate mill usage for core fabrications (e. g., LLF).
- Identify and manage ongoing technical training needs across the wider brand team regarding new fabric innovations and sustainability targets.
- Team Management & Development
- Manage and develop direct reports through regular 1‑2‑1 meetings, objective setting, and structured performance appraisals.
- Provide expert coaching in technical decision‑making, problem‑solving, and quality issue resolution to build team capability.
- Oversee indirect reporting lines with brand technologists across the wider Wholly Owned Brands portfolio.
- Partner with internal L&D teams and external resources to identify development opportunities and continuously upskill direct reports.
- Technical Requirements
- Comprehensive experience at a senior technical level within a fast‑paced fashion retail environment, managing multiple product categories.
- Proven track record in supplier appraisal, risk management, and setting quality standards across a global supply chain.
- Expert knowledge of pattern cutting, product block management, grading, and technical fitting.
- Strong analytical capability to translate returns data, QFNs, and trade metrics into strategic product improvements.
- In‑depth understanding of fabrications, mill management, sustainable sourcing, and environmental compliance frameworks.
- Proven capability to lead, coach, and upskill technical reports while influencing cross‑functional leaders.
- Diversity & Inclusion
We recognise that our differences are what make us who we are.
We want people to want to work for us and be their true selves.
We are dedicated to attracting and developing a talent team, and recognise that all unique backgrounds and experiences contribute to our future success.
We want to create an inclusive and inspiring environment where individuals feel valued and respected, and where people can achieve their full potential and be their very best, whoever they are.
Wellbeing
We believe that wellbeing is having the opportunity to achieve your full potential, cope with day to day pressures, be productive and thrive in all aspects of your life.
We encourage a culture that promotes and enables us all to achieve positive wellbeing, by focusing on mental, physical and financial health.
About Us
Lipsy is a London-based fashion brand that’s bold, dynamic, and always evolving.
We create trend‑led designs with a signature feminine edge, blending sophistication with unapologetic glamour.
From statement‑making eveningwear to effortlessly chic everyday looks, every piece is designed to make women feel confident, empowered, and unstoppable.
The Lipsy woman knows what she wants - she’s ambitious, stylish, and ready to own every moment, whether she’s commanding the boardroom or turning heads at an exclusive event.
- About The Team
- 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
- 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
- Hot deals and exclusive offers from over 3,500 retailers through our online benefits platform
- Company performance based bonus
- Early VIP access to sale stock via Direct to Desk
- Life assurance
- Sharesave scheme
- Annual Travel Card Loan
- Sample Sales
- Fantastic L&D opportunities
- Flexi-Hour Scheme
- Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
- Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
- Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more
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 on and leave a voicemail.
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Technical Lead - Lipsy in London employer: Next
At Victoria’s Secret, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in Nottingham. Our Sales Associates enjoy flexible working schedules, generous discounts, and access to comprehensive health and wellbeing services, all while being part of a supportive team that values personal growth and development. Join us to create unforgettable customer experiences in a fast-paced environment where your passion for retail can truly shine.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Lead - Lipsy in London
✨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 Next!
✨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 Next.
✨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 Next.
✨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 Next!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Lead - Lipsy in London
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 Next.
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 Next!
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 Next. 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 Next
✨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!
