Product Developer in Portsmouth

Join a successful and growing international apparel business that combines the stability of a well-established family-owned company with the ambition of a modern growth organisation. Known for investing in its people, this is an environment where you'll be given the opportunity to learn, develop and progress whilst working alongside experienced industry professionals. This opportunity is ideal for a commercially minded Product Developer with menswear experience who is looking to broaden their skills and take the next step in their career.

Working across the full product lifecycle, you'll gain valuable exposure to sourcing, supplier management, product development and commercial operations within a fast-paced wholesale environment.

Working closely with Design, Technical, Buying and Supply Chain teams, you will play a key role in driving product development across multiple categories, ensuring products are delivered on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards. You'll be responsible for managing overseas suppliers, fabric and trim development, garment construction, fit approvals and factory allocation decisions while supporting seasonal collections and customer-specific programmes.

• Manage the end-to-end product development process from design concept through to bulk production
• Oversee seasonal critical paths and development calendars
• Work across multiple collections and seasons simultaneously
• Manage product development for both core ranges and customer-specific programmes
• Build and maintain strong relationships with overseas factories and suppliers
• Source and develop fabrics, trims, washes and finishes in line with commercial objectives
• Lead approvals across fabrics, trims, packaging, lab dips, prints and embellishments
• Attend fit sessions and collaborate with Technical and Design teams on product improvements
• Negotiate supplier pricing and identify opportunities for margin enhancement
• Manage sample tracking, submissions and development reporting
• Allocate factories based on product category, lead times, pricing and manufacturing capabilities
• Support cross-functional teams to ensure smooth progression from development through to production.

To be successful in this role, you will ideally have:

• 2–5 years' experience in Apparel Product Development
• Strong menswear product development experience (womenswear exposure advantageous)
• Previous experience working within a wholesale fashion business
• Strong understanding of garment construction, fit, fabric development and finishing techniques
• Experience sourcing products and allocating factories
• Proven success managing overseas suppliers and manufacturing partners
• Excellent organisation and project management skills
• Commercial awareness with strong negotiation capabilities
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach and ability to work independently

Excellent salary package with long-term career prospects. Genuine opportunities for progression and professional development. Join a financially strong, stable and well-established family-owned business with an impressive track record of growth. Work within a collaborative, supportive and down-to-earth culture where employees are valued and empowered. Accessible and humble leadership team that encourages teamwork, innovation and accountability. Exposure to globally recognised fashion and lifestyle brands across diverse product categories. A fast-paced environment where your ideas and contributions can make a real impact.