Senior Product Leader, PPE & Safety Gear in Manchester

Charles Hughes, son of a small farmer on the Wild Atlantic coast, was determined to have the best workwear and footwear when he founded his business in 1904. To this day, his core principles of exceptional design, quality, value and service still apply.

The Beginning

• 1904 – Charles Hughes founded his footwear and drapery shop in Westport
• 1912 – Eight years later he started as a wholesale business.

Second Generation

• 1945 – Started a clothing factory during the war years. This is now Portwest UC.
• 1970s – Pádraig also founded Hotel Westport and Carraig Donn, as the textile industry was in decline.

Third Generation

• 1978 – Cathal and Harry join the family business. Harry took leadership over the two factories in Westport and Castlerea where over 100 sewing machinists worked. Production changed from making shirts to making workwear, and a turnover of £200,000 was achieved this year.
• 1983 – Five years later, Owen joins the retail and wholesale division.

Fourth Generation

• Since 2015 – James, Orla, Stephanie, Henry and Cathal J. Hughes have joined the family business overseeing and working in a wide range of departments.

Mission

To be the world’s best supplier of protective wear through customer focus, innovation, service, and value, and all delivered with passion and care.

Vision

To be the world’s most requested and trusted protective wear brand.

The Sales Department at Portwest plays a vital role in the company’s success by driving sales and fostering strong customer relationships. Our global team of Field Sales Representatives are spread across over 70 countries, acting as the bridge between Portwest and its customers. Here’s a breakdown of their key responsibilities:

• Building strong customer bonds: Understanding specific needs is key.
• Product expertise: Mastering knowledge of Portwest’s workwear & PPE offerings.
• Customer support & training: Equipping clients with product knowledge.
• Collaboration: Working hand-in-hand with internal teams for a seamless experience.

By fulfilling these functions, the Sales Department plays a critical role in achieving Portwest’s sales goals and establishing the company as a leading provider of safety solutions worldwide.

Marketing

The Marketing Department is the mastermind behind Portwest’s brand identity and market success. This collaborative team encompasses:

• Brand Champions: Maintaining a strong and consistent brand image.
• Product Powerhouse: Promoting Portwest’s solutions effectively.
• Campaign Strategists: Executing targeted marketing initiatives.

By working together, they craft a comprehensive marketing plan that propels Portwest’s growth and solidifies its position as a leader in the safety industry.

Markets

The Markets team acts as the bridge between Portwest’s sales force and its global customer base. They provide crucial support for our sales staff by:

• Customer Focus: Assisting with customer needs and market management.
• The Feedback Loop: Gathering valuable customer insights on product needs, expectations, and areas for improvement.
• Building Relationships: Organizing international customer visits and hosting sales conferences.

By fostering strong customer connections and acting as a conduit for valuable feedback, the Markets team plays a vital role in Portwest’s ongoing product development and customer satisfaction.

Product Development

The beating heart of Portwest’s safety solutions is the Product Development department. Based in Manchester and Westport, this team brings cutting-edge workwear, footwear, PPE, and more to life. Their expertise spans across various areas:

• Quality & Certification: Ensuring every product meets rigorous safety standards.
• Product Innovation: Designing new and improved workwear categories.
• Sustainability: Developing eco-friendly solutions based on customer feedback.

With a massive portfolio of over 1400 products and 13,500 SKUs, the Product Development team is constantly pushing boundaries, making Portwest a leader in innovative safety solutions.

Graphics

Imagine a team that translates Portwest’s passion for safety into visually captivating designs. That’s the magic of our Graphics Team! These creative minds are responsible for crafting the visual language that shapes the Portwest brand across all touchpoints. Here’s a glimpse into what they do:

• Brand Identity Champions: They ensure consistency and impact in all visual elements, from brochures to product packaging.
• Marketing Materials Masterminds: They develop eye-catching marketing materials that grab attention and effectively communicate Portwest’s message.
• Digital Design Dynamos: They create engaging visuals for Portwest’s website and social media platforms, keeping the brand fresh and relevant online.
• Product Presentation Powerhouse: They design clear and informative product presentations that showcase Portwest’s offerings effectively.

By wielding the power of design, the Graphics Team plays a vital role in strengthening Portwest’s brand identity and ensuring clear communication with customers around the world.

Supply Chain

The Supply Chain department acts as the central nervous system of Portwest’s operations. They meticulously coordinate and monitor all supply and logistics activities, ensuring a smooth flow of goods from manufacturing facilities to warehouses and ultimately to customers worldwide. This vital team thrives on collaboration across various stakeholders:

• Internal Partners: Working closely with departments like manufacturing and sales.
• External Network: Collaborating seamlessly with suppliers, warehouses, and customers.

By ensuring a perfectly synchronized operation, the Supply Chain department plays a critical role in delivering products on time, within budget, and ultimately contributing to Portwest’s overall success.

Human Resources

The Human Resources Department at Portwest is dedicated to fostering a talented and engaged workforce. This team, encompassing HR, Learning & Development, and Talent Acquisition, manages the entire employee lifecycle:

• Recruitment: Attracting and hiring top talent.
• Retention: Creating a positive work environment to keep employees engaged.
• Training & Development: Investing in employee growth and skill development.
• Performance Management: Helping employees excel and achieve their goals.

By focusing on these key areas, Portwest’s Human Resource Team ensures the company has a strong foundation for success, driven by a team of empowered and motivated individuals.

Procurement & Trading

The Procurement and Trading Department plays a strategic role in ensuring Portwest gets the best bang for its buck. They’re your expert negotiators, working with international vendors to secure:

• Competitive Pricing: Negotiating the best possible deals for materials and services.
• Superior Quality: Ensuring suppliers meet Portwest’s rigorous quality standards.
• Sustainable Sourcing: Championing eco-friendly practices throughout the supply chain.

This team goes beyond just making deals. They develop and implement strategic procurement processes that are not only cost-effective but also compliant with regulations in various countries. By securing the best quality at the best price, the Procurement and Trading Department keeps Portwest on the leading edge, all while being responsible stewards of the environment.

Digital

The Digital Development department, with teams in Westport and Bangladesh, is the backbone of Portwest’s online presence. They manage a vast ecosystem of digital tools, including:

• Ecommerce Platform: Ensuring a seamless online shopping experience.
• Company Website: Keeping you informed about Portwest’s latest innovations.
• Internal Systems: Maintaining efficient operations with ticketing systems and web development solutions.

By skillfully managing these digital touchpoints, the Digital Development department keeps Portwest connected with customers and streamlines internal operations.

Compliance

Portwest’s Compliance Department acts as the company’s guardian of ethical practices. This team plays a critical role in ensuring Portwest operates within the bounds of relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. Here’s how they achieve this:

• Compliance Monitoring: Keeping a watchful eye on legal and regulatory changes.
• Policy Development: Implementing clear and comprehensive policies and procedures.
• Risk Mitigation: Identifying and minimizing potential legal and regulatory risks.

This dedication to compliance safeguards Portwest’s reputation and ensures the company operates responsibly across all its divisions, including International PPE, Irish Retail, and the Hotel and Adventure Park.

IT

The IT Department at Portwest is the backbone of the company’s technological foundation. This team of specialists and technicians keeps everything running smoothly by:

• Managing IT Infrastructure: Maintaining the company’s computer systems and networks.
• Supporting End Users: Ensuring employees have the technology they need to succeed.
• Driving Innovation: Leveraging technology to streamline processes and foster new ideas.

By keeping Portwest at the forefront of technological advancements, the IT Department plays a critical role in boosting efficiency and driving innovation across the company.

Graduate Program

Ready to #ReachYourPeak in a dynamic and purpose-driven environment? The Portwest Graduate Programme is your launchpad to a rewarding career in the safety industry. Our structured two-year program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to excel at Portwest. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Cross-Functional Training: Gain experience across different departments, allowing you to discover your strengths and interests. You also may have the opportunity to travel to various sites across the world.
• Individualized Development: We invest in YOU. We take the time to understand your unique skillset and help you find the perfect role within Portwest.
• Leadership Growth: Develop the confidence and skills to become a future leader in the industry.
• Supportive Environment: Learn from experienced mentors and colleagues who are passionate about your success.

The Portwest Graduate Programme is more than just a job; it’s an investment in your future. Join us and become a leader in the world of safety solutions.

Training & Development

At Portwest, we see our Graduate Programme Associates not just as future employees, but as future leaders. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all program. You’ll gain invaluable cross-functional exposure, rotating through various departments to discover where your talents truly shine. But that’s not all! We’re dedicated to your growth. Our structured training program will equip you with the essential skills to thrive at Portwest, focusing on:

• Leadership Development: Build the confidence and capabilities to become an industry leader.
• Effective Communication: Master the art of clear and impactful communication.
• Teamwork Prowess: Learn to collaborate seamlessly and achieve goals together.
• Motivational Mojo: Develop the skills to inspire and empower those around you.

On top of these core skills, you’ll also receive specialized technical training in your chosen discipline. This ensures you hit the ground running upon finding your perfect role within Portwest.