At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development from concept to delivery for global fashion brands.
- Company: Dynamic fashion company seeking a sharp product leader.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on leadership role, and team mentoring opportunities.
- Other info: 4-5 days in the office in Watford with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the fast-paced world of fashion and lifestyle products.
- Qualifications: Solid experience in fashion, strong leadership, and commercial instincts required.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Are you a commercially sharp product leader who thrives on pace, precision, and people? We're looking for a Head of Product Development & Sourcing to lead our product, technical, and development teams for a 12-month maternity cover contract. You'll own the end-to-end product journey — from supplier allocation to final shipment — across a portfolio of global fashion and lifestyle brands.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can balance the big picture with the fine detail: negotiating with suppliers, reviewing margin sheets, and mentoring a team of Product Managers, Developers, and Garment Technologists.
The Role
- Leading product development from concept to delivery, on spec, on time, on margin
- Building and managing relationships with international suppliers and manufacturers
- Driving sourcing strategy, cost negotiation, and margin performance
- Owning quality standards and resolving production issues fast
- Leading, coaching, and developing a multi-disciplinary team
- Acting as the go-to for buyers, customers, and internal stakeholders on all things product
The Person
- Solid experience in Fashion/Apparel, with proven leadership of product development and sourcing teams
- Deep knowledge of garment manufacturing, supply chain, and product development processes
- Strong commercial instincts — costing, margin management, and hard-nosed supplier negotiation
- Experience with Off Price accounts
- The leadership presence to manage, motivate, and get the best from a team
- A calm head for fast-paced, multi-project environments
If you can step into a senior seat quickly, hit the ground running, and lead with both sound commercial judgement and genuine people leadership. This role is 4-5 days in the office in Watford, as you will be managing a team. You must be UK-based with a Full & Permanent Right To Work.
Head of Product Development & Sourcing /12-Month Fixed-Term Contract (Maternity Cover) in Watford employer: People Marketing Fashion Recruitment
At People Marketing Fashion Recruitment, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values innovation and collaboration in the fashion industry. Our vibrant work culture fosters creativity and professional growth, offering employees opportunities to enhance their skills through hands-on experience and mentorship. Located in a dynamic fashion hub, we provide unique advantages such as access to leading retailers and the chance to work with talented professionals who are passionate about quality and fit in womenswear.
Contact Details:
People Marketing Fashion Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Product Development & Sourcing /12-Month Fixed-Term Contract (Maternity Cover) in Watford
✨Get in with Local Boutiques
Fashion isn't just about the big names; local boutiques are often on the lookout for temporary staff, especially during busy seasons. Pop in with your CV and a smile, chat with the staff, and show genuine interest – it can lead to an on-the-spot opportunity or, at the very least, a good contact!
✨Leverage Fashion Events
Fashion shows and local events are goldmines for networking. Attend as many as you can! Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, designers, or even models – you never know who might have a lead on temporary roles that aren't advertised yet.
✨Utilise Social Media Like a Pro
Follow brands and influencers in the fashion-apparel industry on social media. Engage with their content and stay updated on their hiring announcements. Many companies post about temporary positions on their Instagram or Twitter, so keep your eyes peeled!
✨Check Out Our Site for Temp Roles
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website for temp roles at companies like People Marketing Fashion Recruitment. We regularly update our listings, and your best shot at landing something is to jump on it as soon as it drops – so keep checking!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Product Development & Sourcing /12-Month Fixed-Term Contract (Maternity Cover) in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style:In the fashion-apparel world, creativity and personal style are key! Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique take on fashion—add a touch of personality, maybe even a mood board if you’re feeling adventurous. This is your chance to show how you’d fit into People Marketing Fashion Recruitment's vibe!
Highlight Relevant Experience:For a temporary role, experience is everything. If you've worked in retail, styling, or even as a personal shopper, make sure to highlight that in your application. We want to see how your past experiences can benefit People Marketing Fashion Recruitment during this short-term stint!
Include a Portfolio of Your Work:If you’ve got a portfolio—whether that's photos of your styling or designs—attach it! We love to see what you're capable of. It’s a great way to stand out, especially in temporary roles where you might need to make a quick impact at People Marketing Fashion Recruitment.
Emphasise Your Adaptability:Temporary roles often require juggling different tasks and adapting to changing needs. In your application, mention instances where you’ve showcased flexibility and quick learning. Showing that you’re ready to jump right in will surely catch our eye at People Marketing Fashion Recruitment.
How to prepare for a job interview at People Marketing Fashion Recruitment
✨Show Off Your Style
In the fashion-apparel world, your personal style can speak volumes. Make sure to express your fashion sense in your outfit and show off any unique pieces that represent your style while keeping it professional. This gives the interviewers a glimpse of your creativity and flair.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
For a temporary role, it'll be essential to demonstrate your skills quickly. Have a well-curated portfolio that showcases your previous work, whether it's designs, styling, or merchandising. Be prepared to talk through your thought process and the impact your work has had in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Trend Talk
Expect questions about current fashion trends and how they relate to the brand People Marketing Fashion Recruitment. Being able to discuss recent runway looks, sustainable practices, or trending colours will show your knowledge of the industry and that you’re up-to-date with what's happening in fashion.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
In a temporary position, demonstrating that you can hit the ground running is key. Share experiences from previous roles where you've quickly adapted to new trends or tackled fast-paced environments. Your ability to be flexible shows that you're ready to contribute from day one!
