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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the sourcing and development of raw materials for luxury footwear and accessories.
- Company: Russell & Bromley is a renowned British luxury fashion brand with a rich heritage since 1880.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, a creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting growth phase and contribute to sustainable fashion innovation.
- Qualifications: 5-8 years in material development with strong knowledge of leather and textiles required.
- Other info: Join a family-owned brand committed to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a technically skilled and highly organised Product Developer to lead our raw materials sourcing and development process at Russell & Bromley. Working as part of the in-house Product Development team, you’ll take full ownership of all raw materials, leathers, trims, and hardware used across our footwear and accessories collections — from initial sourcing through to lab dips, testing, and bulk compliance. This is a pivotal, hands-on role that partners closely with Design, PD, and our global suppliers to ensure every material meets the highest standards of quality, performance, and sustainability.
About the Role
- Lead the sourcing and development of all leathers, textiles, trims, and hardware for seasonal collections
- Maintain a detailed multi-season materials library with swatches, costs, technical specs, and compliance data
- Manage lab dips, colour approvals, and ensure consistency across articles and suppliers
- Partner with tanneries and mills in Italy, Spain, and Portugal to develop premium materials aligned with our creative direction
- Ensure all materials meet REACH, sustainability, and durability standards through rigorous testing
- Track and forecast all sampling requirements, working closely with suppliers to ensure critical path milestones are met
- Bring fresh ideas and innovation into the team through market research, trade shows, and supplier appointments
- Compile final approved materials for bulk production handover
About You
- 5–8 years’ experience in material development within footwear, leather goods, or accessories
- Advanced knowledge of leather, textiles, synthetics, and hardware construction
- Extensive supplier network across Europe, with hands-on experience working with Italian and Spanish tanneries
- Strong grasp of sustainable sourcing, compliance testing, and industry regulations
- Exceptional organisation and attention to detail, able to manage multiple materials and deadlines across the season
- Great communication skills, working cross-functionally with Design, PD, CSR, and global suppliers
At Russell & Bromley we are an equal opportunities employer and we value diversity and inclusion in our team. We encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and identities. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process please let us know by email.
Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that we will only be able to contact successful candidates within two weeks.
Product Developer - Raw Materials employer: Russell & Bromley
Contact Detail:
Russell & Bromley Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Developer - Raw Materials
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in raw materials and sustainable sourcing. This knowledge will not only help you stand out during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the brand's values.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the footwear and accessories industry, especially those who have experience with European tanneries. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed material development projects in the past. Highlight your organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines, as these are crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Russell & Bromley's recent collections and their approach to sustainability. Being knowledgeable about their products and ethos will show your genuine interest in the company and its future direction.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Developer - Raw Materials
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Product Developer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in raw materials sourcing and development.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your 5-8 years of experience in material development, particularly within footwear or accessories. Mention specific projects where you successfully managed sourcing and compliance testing.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your advanced knowledge of leather, textiles, and hardware construction. Include examples of how you've worked with suppliers, particularly tanneries in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, to develop premium materials.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for sustainable sourcing and innovation in fashion. Make sure to connect your personal values with those of Russell & Bromley.
How to prepare for a job interview at Russell & Bromley
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
As a Product Developer, you'll need to demonstrate your technical expertise in raw materials. Be prepared to discuss specific materials you've worked with, including leathers and textiles, and how you've ensured their quality and sustainability.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
This role requires exceptional organisation. Share examples of how you've managed multiple projects or materials simultaneously, and how you keep track of deadlines and compliance data. A well-structured approach will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Supplier Network
Having a strong network is crucial for this position. Talk about your experience working with suppliers, especially tanneries and mills in Europe. Mention any successful partnerships you've built and how they contributed to your previous projects.
✨Emphasise Communication and Collaboration
You'll be working closely with various teams, so it's important to showcase your communication skills. Provide examples of how you've collaborated with design teams or other departments to achieve common goals, ensuring that everyone is aligned on material choices and standards.
