We're working with a rapidly growing, family-run motorcycle-inspired lifestyle and apparel brand that is entering an exciting new phase of growth. Established five years ago, the brand has built a strong identity across menswear, casualwear and motorsport-inspired clothing and is now scaling quickly, with new hires joining the existing team and a number of exciting collaborations in the pipeline. Based in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, the business is looking for an entrepreneurial and hands-on head of production to play a key role in the next stage of its growth.
This is a newly created role and a genuine opportunity to take ownership of the production function. You'll oversee the end-to-end production process, working closely with existing manufacturing partners in China and Turkey while also identifying and developing new factories where appropriate. You'll be responsible for negotiating costs and terms, managing production quantities and critical paths, ensuring quality and delivery targets are met, and building strong long-term supplier relationships. With the business looking to significantly increase production volumes, you'll have a real opportunity to shape the production strategy, introduce greater structure and processes, and build a scalable supply base that can support the brand's continued growth.
We're looking for someone with strong fashion/apparel production experience who understands the full production lifecycle and is confident working directly with overseas factories. You'll ideally have experience sourcing and onboarding new suppliers, negotiating pricing, managing production calendars and critical paths, and ensuring products are delivered on time and to the required quality. Experience across China and/or Turkey would be particularly useful, as would a background working with smaller, fast-growing brands where you've had to be hands-on and commercially minded. Most importantly, we're looking for someone energetic, proactive and entrepreneurial who is excited by the opportunity to join a growing brand and make a significant impact. You'll need to be comfortable working in a fast-moving environment where things are evolving quickly and where you can take ownership rather than waiting for established processes to be handed to you.
Salary: £45,000-£50,000, with some flexibility depending on experience | Marlow, Buckinghamshire | Hybrid flexibility available | Immediate start preferred. The office is easily accessible from London via Paddington to Marlow, or by road via the M40. This is a particularly exciting time to join the business, with significant growth ahead and the opportunity to build and lead the production function as the brand scales. Reference: AW - CBUGGLHOP - 01
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Head of Production / Buyer in Marlow employer: Retail Human Resources plc
One Stop is an excellent employer that combines the benefits of a large organisation with the close-knit feel of a neighbourhood store, making it a welcoming environment for both customers and colleagues. With a strong commitment to community involvement, flexible working options, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, employees have ample opportunities for personal growth and to make a meaningful impact in their local areas. Join us at One Stop, where your contributions are valued and celebrated, and every day brings new challenges and rewards.
Contact Details:
Retail Human Resources plc Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Production / Buyer in Marlow
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Retail Human Resources plc specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Retail Human Resources plc
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Retail Human Resources plc, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Retail Human Resources plc value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
