Product Manager in Castle Donington

The Product Manager leads the strategic direction, planning, and execution of the soft accessories’ product portfolio, including slippers, socks, hats, scarves, gloves, and related categories, while remaining actively involved in hands-on product development. This role combines commercial ownership with practical development expertise. You will shape the product strategy, guide design direction, and work directly with factories, materials, and samples to ensure every product meets brand expectations for quality, cost, and customer appeal.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Product Strategy & Roadmap
  • Build and manage seasonal product roadmaps aligned with brand vision, commercial goals, and market trends.
  • Analyse consumer insights, competitor activity, and sales performance to identify new product opportunities.
  • Define product briefs, positioning, and target customer profiles for each category.
• Hands-On Product Development
  • Translate design concepts into detailed technical specifications, construction requirements, and material selections.
  • Create, review, and refine tech packs with accurate product details, artwork placement, trims, and packaging.
  • Work directly with overseas factories on sampling, materials sourcing, and prototype development.
  • Review prototypes, fit samples, and pre-production samples, providing technical comments and corrective actions.
  • Troubleshoot construction, material, or fit issues in collaboration with QA and suppliers.
  • Source yarns, knits, textiles, linings, and soft materials suitable for seasonal collections.
• Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Partner with design to guide creative direction and ensure product concepts meet strategic and commercial objectives.
  • Collaborate with merchandising and planning teams to align the range with financial targets and assortment needs.
  • Support sales teams with product knowledge, key account presentations, and customer-specific requirements.
• Supplier & Cost Management
  • Negotiate costs, MOQs, and lead times with global vendors to achieve margin targets.
  • Monitor costings throughout development and drive design-to-cost solutions where needed.
  • Ensure materials and components meet brand, quality, and compliance standards.
• Operational & Commercial Execution
  • Manage seasonal critical paths to ensure timely sample delivery and production readiness.
  • Track product costs, sample status, and approvals across multiple categories.
  • Support seasonal line reviews, range presentations, and go-to-market activities.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Perform other duties as required, consistent with the expectations of a role at this level.

REQUIREMENTS

• 3+ years of experience in product management or product development, ideally within slippers, socks, hosiery, or soft accessories.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with materials, construction, and sample development.
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of product lifecycle management.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel and Word.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple product lines simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Flexible, proactive, and able to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

WHY JOIN US?

• Join a dynamic, creative, and fast-paced global fashion brand.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Influence both the strategic direction and the technical execution of a growing accessories portfolio.
• Work in a collaborative environment that supports professional growth and development.