Junior Product Developer in Derby

Location: Chesterfield

Reporting to: Senior Product Developer

Who we are: Varley is a contemporary fashion brand for the modern woman. Founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife Lara and Ben Mead, we are an international, family-run business headquartered between London, Los Angeles, and New York. We offer year-round collections, including knitwear, outerwear, and everyday staples, complemented by active pieces to create an elevated wardrobe for how you live and move. We are defined by the women who wear Varley and exist to instil quiet confidence, creating collections that enhance everything they already are. As women’s lives evolve, so do we.

Job Description: As a Junior Product Developer, you’ll support with the end-to-end development, working closely with the Senior Product Developer to ensure products are delivered to the highest standards of quality, performance, and design integrity. This role is based full time at our Chesterfield office.

Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain a close working partnership with Design to assist in the development of the collection from initial concept through to the finished product.
• Champion Varley quality standards and seek opportunities to further elevate and refine our products.
• Support with product spec build, ensuring all information is accurate and up to date.
• Review prototype samples against design spec, record measurements and take notes on workmanship, fit and design amends.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Request and track lab dips.
• Proactively follow-up on estimated sample delivery dates and maintain records.
• Oversee colour consistency through to bulk production.
• Conduct QC checks at our warehouse in Leeds.

Experience and Skills:

• Degree in Fashion Design, Technology or Equivalent is preferred.
• Experience of working in a product development or technical support role (e.g. work placements).
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, able to collaborate effectively with other teams and external partners.
• Highly organised and detail-oriented, able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• A passion for the industry and an awareness of competitors’ products.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Benefits:

• Employee Purchase Scheme with 50% off for employees.
• Friend and Family Purchase Scheme with 20% off.
• Access to Bupa Health care after 2 years.
• 25 Days Holiday.

Our People: We think of ourselves as an international family-run business that embodies our founders’ commitment to creating timeless collections for the modern woman. What started as a company of two has grown into a close-knit team of thinkers, creators, and innovators, taking care of our clothes, each other, and our community. Split across the UK and USA, our team is 85% female, making us proud to be a brand for women, by women.

Company Values: We are the sum of many parts. We may have two founders but we are the sum of many parts. The journey is just as important as the destination. We look after one another. We promote diversity and inclusivity as central parts of the culture we are building. We are less when we don’t include everyone. Our successes and our failures we make as a team not as individuals. We pursue quality in everything we do. We should chase perfection in everything we do. Growth is a result of improvements to every aspect of what we do, not just reliant on an individual or department. We grow together. We embrace possibility and push boundaries. We believe that there are no limits to what we can achieve. We encourage innovative thinking, pushing boundaries, and embracing new possibilities. We constantly challenge ourselves to think beyond the ordinary and create extraordinary outcomes. Data-driven decisions and purposeful actions. We base our decisions and actions on data and reason, not on hope. We prioritize and justify our choices through thoughtful analysis. We think before we act, understanding the impact of our actions. Our brand is timeless and valuable. Our brand is our most valuable asset, and we treat it with the utmost respect. We recognize that our brand will outlive us and strive to enhance its value through everything we do. We prioritize long-term growth over short-term gains, ensuring the longevity of our brand's reputation. We never compromise our product. We believe the best form of marketing is to make better products. Let word of mouth be the most powerful marketing channel. Constantly improve, however marginal a gain. Our product is defined by quality not price. We respect and exceed customer expectations. We deeply appreciate and value those who choose to consume our brand. We consistently strive to surpass their expectations in every interaction. Our goal is to transform customers into passionate advocates who enthusiastically share their positive experiences with others. We choose partners who reflect our values. We view our suppliers, service providers, and stockists as partners, not mere business relationships. We carefully select partners who align with our values and standards. We understand that the company we keep reflects our brand's integrity and reputation. We grow our brand by empowering others. We understand that the way we present information is just as crucial as the information itself. We focus not only on what we do but also on how our actions positively impact others. We aim to empower and support those around us, fostering growth and creating meaningful connections. Responsibility is at the core of everything we do. We believe that responsibility is as fundamental as the fit of a garment. We prioritize ethical practices and sustainability in all aspects of our business. We are accountable for our actions and strive to make a positive impact on our environment and communities. Kindness is our guiding principle. We prioritize treating others with respect, empathy, and understanding. We believe that kindness creates a positive work environment and fosters strong relationships with our team members, partners, and customers.