At a Glance
- Tasks: Own product categories from concept to production, creating trend-led fashion collections.
- Company: Fast-paced fashion business in Manchester with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on sustainability and ethical practices.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make an impact in the fashion industry.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in product development or accessories design with strong technical knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are recruiting for a Product Developer to join a fast-paced and growing fashion business based in Manchester. This is an exciting opportunity for a creative and commercially minded individual with experience across product development, accessories, or fashion categories within a large UK high street or lifestyle brand. As Product Developer, you will take ownership of your product categories from concept through to production, working closely with Design, Buying, Merchandising, and international suppliers to deliver trend-led, commercially successful collections. You will play a key role in driving product innovation, improving quality and fit, and ensuring products are developed in line with customer expectations, brand direction, and margin targets. This role would suit someone who thrives in a collaborative and fast-moving retail environment, enjoys balancing creativity with technical expertise, and is passionate about delivering high-quality products to market.
Key Responsibilities:
- Own and manage product categories from initial concept through to final production
- Create trend-led, commercially successful fashion and accessories collections
- Translate market trends, customer insights, and creative direction into commercially viable products
- Develop seasonal concepts including colour palettes, materials, trims, finishes, and styling details
- Produce clear CADs, specifications, and tech packs to support development and sampling processes
- Work closely with Product, Buying, Merchandising, and Commercial teams to align product strategy and customer needs
- Collaborate with UK and overseas suppliers to manage quality, costings, margin, timelines, and production
- Support the full product development lifecycle including fittings, sample approvals, and bulk production
- Ensure all development and sales samples are delivered to a high standard and within critical path deadlines
- Analyse customer, wearer, and sales feedback to drive fit, quality, and product improvements
- Use AI and digital tools to enhance creativity, efficiency, and product development processes
- Visit trade shows, retail environments, and key cities to stay ahead of trends and competitor activity
- Champion sustainability through improved materials, packaging, and responsible sourcing initiatives
- Ensure products comply with current and emerging UK compliance and regulatory standards
Skills & Experience:
- 2+ years' experience within accessories design, product development, or buying for a large UK high street lifestyle, fashion, or home brand
- Strong product development and garment technical knowledge including fit, grading, construction, and bulk production processes
- Experience developing products to cost and margin targets while maintaining quality and brand integrity
- Good understanding and experience using PLM systems to manage fittings, feedback, and development progression
- Strong understanding of materials, product engineering, garment construction, and manufacturing processes
- Confident presenting concepts, product ideas, and seasonal direction to internal stakeholders and suppliers
- Experience working with overseas suppliers and international product development teams
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Strong communication and collaboration skills across Buying, Design, Merchandising, and Supplier teams
- Commercially aware with a strong understanding of customer behaviour, market trends, and competitor activity
- Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail and a proactive, solutions-focused approach
Personal Attributes:
- Creative, innovative, and commercially driven
- Highly organised and detail-oriented
- Positive, collaborative, and adaptable approach
- Strong team player with excellent relationship-building skills
- Reliable, accountable, and able to work proactively
- Passionate about product, fashion, and emerging trends
- Ethical and sustainability-focused mindset
Product Developer in Stretford employer: Zachary Daniels
Join a dynamic and innovative fashion business in Manchester, where creativity meets commercial success. As a Product Developer, you'll thrive in a collaborative environment that values your input and offers ample opportunities for professional growth. With a strong focus on sustainability and trend-led design, this company not only champions high-quality products but also fosters a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement, making it an excellent employer for those passionate about the fashion industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Developer in Stretford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the fashion industry. Attend events, trade shows, or even local meet-ups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, bring along a portfolio that highlights your best work. Make sure it reflects your unique style and showcases your ability to develop trend-led collections.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like us at StudySmarter, and express your interest in working with them. A little initiative can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on trends! Keep an eye on what’s hot in the fashion world by following industry news and social media. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show that you’re passionate about the role and the brand.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Developer in Stretford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Fashion:When you're writing your application, let your love for fashion and product development shine through! Share specific examples of your experience in the industry and how it aligns with our vision at StudySmarter.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Product Developer role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description, especially your knowledge of trends and product innovation.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills. We love a well-organised application!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zachary Daniels
✨Know Your Product Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the product categories you’ll be managing. Familiarise yourself with current trends, customer preferences, and the brand's previous collections. This will not only show your passion but also help you discuss how you can contribute to their success.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, prepare examples of past collaborations. Think about how you’ve successfully partnered with design, buying, or merchandising teams to bring a product from concept to market. Highlight your communication skills and adaptability.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Brush up on your garment construction and product development processes. Be ready to discuss specifics like fit, grading, and bulk production. Showing that you understand the technical side will reassure them that you can manage the full product lifecycle effectively.
✨Bring Ideas to the Table
Prepare to present some trend-led concepts or ideas for future collections. This could include colour palettes, materials, or innovative designs. It’s a great way to demonstrate your creativity and commercial awareness, and it shows you’re proactive about contributing to their vision.
