Fabric Developer & Buyer

Fabric Developer & Buyer

London Full-Time 36000 - 60000 Β£ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Source and develop high-quality fabrics while collaborating with creative teams.
  • Company: Join Studio Nicholson, a fast-growing brand known for fabric innovation and craftsmanship.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities to work closely with industry leaders.
  • Why this job: Be part of a brand that values sustainability and creativity in fashion.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years in fabric development with luxury brands; strong knowledge of textiles required.
  • Other info: Experience with Zedonk or PLM systems is a plus.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.

Studio Nicholson is seeking an experienced Fabric Developer & Buyer to join our London-based team. This role is integral to our commitment to creating garments that embody longevity, adaptability, and refined elegance. Working closely with our design, product development, and production teams, the Fabric Developer will ensure that our fabric choices align with our brand’s philosophy, aesthetic, and positioning, contributing directly to the DNA of the brand.

Key Responsibilities

  • Source and develop fabrics and trims, with a focus on Italian, British, and Japanese mills
  • Manage the fabric development lifecycle, from sampling through to production approvals and bulk compliance
  • Collaborate closely with designers to translate creative vision into high-quality, functional fabrics
  • Liaise with mills and suppliers to ensure compliance with quality and sustainability standards
  • Monitor and maintain the fabric library and database
  • Build and maintain mill and article records in Zedonk
  • Responsible for Purchasing all Sampling & Production RM
  • Support product development and production teams with technical input
  • Track and manage fabric budgets and timelines to meet collection deadlines
  • Uphold sustainability as a foundational principle embedded in all fabric development processes

Requirements

  • Minimum 3 years experience in fabric development within luxury or premium brands
  • Strong knowledge of fabric construction, finishing techniques, and textile innovation
  • Excellent supplier network across key luxury fabric regions (Italy, UK, Japan)
  • Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail
  • Proactive, collaborative, and solutions-oriented mindset
  • Familiarity with sustainable sourcing practices is a plus
  • Experience with Zedonk or another PLM system is a plus

Why Join Us?

  • Be part of a fast-growing brand with a strong focus on fabric innovation
  • Work closely with industry-leading creatives and suppliers
  • Contribute to collections celebrated for craftsmanship and innovation

Fabric Developer & Buyer employer: Studio Nicholson

At Studio Nicholson, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions creativity and innovation in the heart of London. Our collaborative work culture fosters personal and professional growth, allowing you to thrive alongside industry-leading creatives while contributing to sustainable practices in fabric development. Join us to be part of a fast-growing brand that values craftsmanship and offers unique opportunities to shape the future of luxury fashion.
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Contact Detail:

Studio Nicholson Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

We think this is how you could land Fabric Developer & Buyer

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the fabric and textile industry, especially those connected to luxury brands. Attend trade shows, exhibitions, or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and suppliers who might provide insights or referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable fabrics and innovations in textile technology. Being knowledgeable about these topics will not only enhance your discussions during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the brand's sustainability principles.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed fabric development projects in the past. Highlight your experience with sourcing from Italian, British, and Japanese mills, as well as any challenges you overcame in the process.

✨Tip Number 4

If you have experience with PLM systems like Zedonk, be ready to talk about how you've used them to streamline fabric development processes. If not, consider familiarising yourself with the basics of such systems to show your willingness to learn and adapt.

We think you need these skills to ace Fabric Developer & Buyer

Fabric Development
Textile Innovation
Supplier Management
Knowledge of Fabric Construction
Finishing Techniques
Attention to Detail
Organisational Skills
Collaboration Skills
Sustainable Sourcing Practices
Experience with PLM Systems (e.g., Zedonk)
Budget Management
Project Management
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫑

Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Fabric Developer & Buyer position at Studio Nicholson. Understand the key responsibilities and requirements, especially focusing on fabric sourcing, development lifecycle, and sustainability practices.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in fabric development, particularly within luxury or premium brands. Emphasise your knowledge of fabric construction, supplier networks, and any experience with PLM systems like Zedonk.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for fabric innovation and sustainability. Mention specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to collaborate with design teams and manage fabric budgets effectively.

Showcase Your Network: If you have connections with suppliers or mills in Italy, the UK, or Japan, mention these in your application. Highlighting your existing relationships can set you apart as a candidate who can hit the ground running.

How to prepare for a job interview at Studio Nicholson

✨Showcase Your Fabric Knowledge

Make sure to demonstrate your understanding of fabric construction, finishing techniques, and textile innovation during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific fabrics you've worked with and how they align with luxury or premium brands.

✨Highlight Your Supplier Network

Discuss your connections with suppliers, especially in key luxury fabric regions like Italy, the UK, and Japan. This will show that you have the necessary relationships to source high-quality materials effectively.

✨Emphasise Sustainability

Since sustainability is a foundational principle for the role, be ready to talk about your experience with sustainable sourcing practices. Share examples of how you've integrated sustainability into your fabric development processes.

✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions

Expect questions about how you collaborate with designers and production teams. Prepare examples that illustrate your proactive and solutions-oriented mindset, showcasing how you translate creative visions into functional fabrics.

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