At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical product development for sweaters and knitwear, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Company: Established supplier with a growing business in the knitwear industry.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for career growth and skill development.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment focused on innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in product development while leading a dynamic technical team.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Textile Engineering and 10 years of experience in knitwear manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
This is a great opportunity to join an established supplier and a growing business that continues to go from strength to strength. We are seeking an experienced professional to lead and oversee the end-to-end technical product development of sweaters and knitwear products, ensuring products are developed right first time, are technically feasible, cost-effective, and fully compliant with customer requirements.
The role is responsible for driving early-stage technical decision-making, risk assessment, and data accuracy to minimise rework, reduce sample iterations, and ensure a smooth transition from product development into bulk production. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Leicestershire.
Key Responsibilities- Lead technical development from tech-pack review through swatch, trial, fit, PPS, and bulk handover.
- Conduct all technical meetings including tech-pack review, risk assessment, and trial reviews.
- Ensure development decisions are documented, communicated, and implemented accurately.
- Own and govern PDRA / Risk Assessment processes.
- Ensure risks related to product safety, yarn, construction, fit, testing, production feasibility, machinery, and attachments are identified and closed.
- Escalate high-complexity styles for customer or external risk reviews when required.
- Act as the technical authority on: Yarn properties and behaviour, Gauge and stitch structures, Knit-downs, tension, shrinkage, and dimensional stability, Linking, assembly, and finishing impacts.
- Ensure all developments are scalable and production-feasible.
- Lead all fit sessions and technical approvals.
- Approve proto, fit, size set, and PPS samples.
- Ensure fit, construction, comfort, and aesthetics meet customer standards.
- Ensure 100% accuracy of technical data including measurements, grading, SMV, yarn consumption, and risk records.
- Maintain version control and timely updates in PLM / Caspio / customer portals.
- Ensure no style moves to the next milestone without validated technical data.
- Work closely with Programming (Shima / Stoll), QA, IE, Merchandising, SCM, Lab, and Operations.
- Align technical decisions with costing, capacity, and delivery requirements.
- Support buyers and customers with clear technical communication.
- Lead, coach, and mentor the PD technical team.
- Conduct performance monitoring, coaching, and annual appraisals.
- Build technical capability and second-line leadership within PD.
- Ensure product quality, testing compliance, and technical safety standards are met.
- Maintain 5S, housekeeping, and workplace safety standards.
- Investigate technical root causes for customer complaints and prevent recurrence.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Textile Engineering or related discipline.
- Minimum 10 years in sweater/knitwear manufacturing.
- Strong background in product development and technical leadership.
- Experience managing multi-disciplinary technical teams.
- Knitwear construction and development expertise.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
- High attention to detail and data discipline.
- Ability to lead under pressure.
Technical Manager employer: People Marketing Fashion Recruitment
Join a dynamic and established supplier in Leicestershire, where your expertise as a Technical Manager will be valued in a supportive and collaborative work environment. We prioritise employee growth through continuous training and mentorship, ensuring you have the tools to excel in your role while contributing to innovative product development. With a commitment to quality and compliance, we foster a culture of excellence that empowers our team to thrive and make a meaningful impact in the knitwear industry.
Contact Details:
People Marketing Fashion Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Manager
✨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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment!
✨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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment.
✨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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment.
✨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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Manager
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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment.
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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment!
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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment. 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 People Marketing Fashion Recruitment
✨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!
