At a Glance
- Tasks: Support design and production across three apparel brands, managing CADs and product workflows.
- Company: Dynamic apparel company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and growth opportunities in global production.
- Other info: Exciting chance to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple brands.
- Why this job: Gain real ownership of product processes and learn from industry experts.
- Qualifications: Strong technical skills in garment construction and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 34000 £ per year.
We are looking for a skilled and motivated junior Design & Production Assistant to support our Production Director across three distinct apparel brands — Pendleton, Dubbleware, and Reyn Spooner. This is a hands‑on role that sits at the intersection of design and production, where you will play a key part in keeping technical documentation, CADs, and product workflows running smoothly across a global supply chain. We care more about what you can do than how long you have been doing it. If you have strong technical skills, a sharp eye for detail, and a genuine passion for garment construction and production, we want to hear from you. You will gain direct exposure to how international production networks are structured and managed, with the opportunity to take real ownership of product process flow and supplier relationships as you grow.
Key responsibilities
- Produce and maintain accurate garment CADs and technical drawings across all three brands in Adobe Illustrator.
- Build and manage techpacks to a factory-ready standard, ensuring all construction details, measurements, and material specs are clearly communicated.
- Own and maintain production spreadsheets, critical path trackers, and sampling logs.
- Support the management of product process flow from concept through to delivery, tracking progress across multiple brands simultaneously.
- Liaise with factories and suppliers, helping to coordinate fit comments, approvals, and amendments.
- Assist in managing seasonal production calendars and flagging critical path risks.
- Contribute to continuous improvements in how production information is documented and shared.
Skills & experience
- Strong understanding of garment construction, fit, and fabric behaviour.
- Confident at creating detailed garment CADs in Adobe Illustrator — this is essential.
- Experience building techpacks for factory production.
- Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and the wider Adobe Creative Suite.
- Comfortable working with spreadsheets and managing multiple data sets (Excel or Google Sheets).
- Highly organised with a strong ability to prioritise across multiple concurrent projects.
- Clear written communicator — comfortable corresponding with factories and suppliers.
- A genuine interest in how global production and supply chains work.
Bonus
- Experience using Zedonk (garment production management software) is a bonus, though not essential.
What you'll learn & gain
You will work directly alongside an experienced Production Director and get first‑hand exposure to how global production networks are built and managed across multiple brands at different scales. Over time, you will take on genuine responsibility for managing product process flow and supplier relationships — this is not an administrative role.
Design & Production Assistant in London employer: Options Distribution
Options Distribution is an excellent employer for those looking to kickstart their career in design and production within the vibrant fashion industry. Located in the creative hub of Bethnal Green, London, we offer a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and personal growth, alongside opportunities to engage with global supply chains and renowned apparel brands. Our commitment to employee development ensures that you will gain valuable skills and experience while contributing to exciting projects in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design & Production Assistant 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 Options Distribution!
✨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 Options Distribution.
✨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 Options Distribution.
✨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 Options Distribution!
We think you need these skills to ace Design & Production Assistant 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 Options Distribution.
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 Options Distribution!
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 Options Distribution. 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 Options Distribution
✨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!