At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Founder in building a premium fashion label through diverse responsibilities.
- Company: Exciting early-stage fashion brand with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, flexible working, and potential for full-time role.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and creativity in the fashion industry.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of fashion development and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Entry-level experience in fashion or related fields; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
This is a dynamic generalist role designed to provide hands-on support to the Founder across every aspect of building an early-stage premium fashion label. You will gain direct exposure to all facets of the business, including assisting with market research, coordinating product development logistics, managing day-to-day operations, and handling essential administration to ensure smooth execution as we prepare for launch. Because the Founder is based overseas during this pre-launch phase, you will serve as the brand’s local UK anchor. You will help translate priorities into action and take ownership of key workstreams. This role is permanent and has the potential to evolve into a full-time role as the brand prepares for launch in 2027.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare research and analysis to support strategic discussions and decision-making led by the Founder and relevant external advisors.
- Conduct market research, competitor analysis, and customer validation initiatives, synthesising findings into clear insights and actionable recommendations.
- Support implementation of the AW27 go-to-market roadmap, including driving key workstreams, maintaining timelines, conducting research, and keeping on top of follow-ups.
- Coordinate local relationships with UK and EU-based contractors, influencers, legal/accounting partners, and design consultants.
- Coordinate key pre-launch and post-launch trading activities such as prototyping logistics, sample management and timelines, supplier follow-up, vendor communications, social media campaigns, and influencer outreach, driving them against an overall development calendar.
- Oversee basic business administration, expense/invoice tracking, and corporate correspondence.
- Attend and support Unbridled at key industry trade shows and events in the UK and EU, representing the brand where agreed by the Founder.
- Help identify and map prospective creative collaborators, PR contacts, and retail partners.
Skills and Experience Required:
- Entry-level experience in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment, such as e-commerce, marketing, consumer brands, fashion, VC, consulting, or other startups; exceptional graduates will be considered.
- A degree or equivalent work experience in fashion design, textiles, fashion marketing, or fashion business is highly advantageous.
- You must be London-based and be able to work flexibly with the founder, including via remote working and occasional travel within the UK and EU.
- You must have the permanent unrestricted right to work in the UK; Unbridled is unable to provide sponsorship.
About you:
- Highly proactive and comfortable taking ownership without constant direction.
- Combines strong commercial acumen with intellectual curiosity; able to learn quickly and take increasing ownership as the brand develops.
- Highly analytical but also able to translate strategy into actionable goals and practical execution.
- Comfortable working with ambiguity and incomplete information.
- Exceptionally organised and detail-oriented.
- A strong written and verbal communicator.
- Strong interest in high-end fashion, lifestyle, e-commerce, and consumer brands.
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their race, disability, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and belief, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity and caring responsibility. We are committed to offering a working environment where everyone is valued and feels appreciated.
Founder Associate - Fashion Brand Development & Operations in London employer: UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON
London College of Fashion is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With generous benefits such as 39 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional development, employees are supported in their growth while contributing to the education of future fashion leaders. Located in the dynamic East Bank Stratford area of London, staff can engage with a diverse community and enjoy access to various cultural events and exhibitions.
Contact Details:
UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Founder Associate - Fashion Brand Development & Operations in London
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON!
We think you need these skills to ace Founder Associate - Fashion Brand Development & Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!