Product Development & Production Manager
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Product Development & Production Manager
The Product Development & Production Manager is responsible for the timely delivery of development samples and production ensuring all collections and products achieve critical path, delivery, margin and quality expectations and are aligned with the company values which are a celebration of artisanal craft, innovation, sustainability and responsibility.
Collections are inspired by timeless artisanal craftsmanship with an inspiring modern twist using locally sourced natural fabrics. Womenswear makes up the bulk of the collections complimented by menswear and accessories.
The successful candidate will have a minimum of 6 years of experience in contemporary or luxury fashion across both product development and production. Womenswear experience is essential alongside a strong product development skill set and understanding. You must also be available to travel.
Fluent Spanish language skills are preferable.
Main responsibilities
- Overseeing the product lifecycle from range planning, product development and sampling to sourcing and production across all categories and lines: womenswear, menswear & accessories.
- Managing the critical path, ensuring the whole process is carefully engineered to deliver product on time and to budget and that all parties are aware of their responsibilities and deadlines.
- Seasonal planning, agreeing on range plan and budgets with the Merchandising and Finance teams.
- Working closely with the Collection Director and design to support the design process.
- Managing, nurturing and developing an initial team of 3 direct reports; garment technologist, product development assistant and product manager.
- Sourcing new fabrics and raw materials as required, whilst continually working with mills, tanneries and suppliers to develop and improve new fabrics and components.
- Overseeing product development, reviews and fittings, including the work of the atelier and sampling in the factories.
- Finalizing the sales sample collection for market, final editing and pricing alongside the Merchandising & Sales team.
- Managing factories and mills in Mexico and Turkey, ultimately expanding the supply chain and sourcing new factories and suppliers in Morocco and India.
- Overseeing the bulk production process, including MRP (manufacturer resource planning), fabric pre-ordering, PO allocation & management, grading, quality assurance & control and deliveries.
- Together with the Merchandise team be responsible for achieving the product margin target set by the Finance Director.
- Engage closely with the various Sales and Merchandising teams to receive feedback and optimize the range.
- Ensure that the product process is aligned with the company values which are a celebration of artisanal craft, innovation, sustainability and responsibility.
- Managing and developing the Product team.
- Managing the Product Department budget closely with the Finance team.
- Constantly striving to improve the product and supply chain.
Essential Skills
- Product Development & Production Manager with a minimum of 6 years product development and production experience in luxury fashion, with at least 2 years in a management role.
- Fluent Spanish language skills are preferable.
- Experience in women's contemporary or luxury fashion is essential.
- Established network of luxury factories, agents, suppliers and mills.
- Experience in the sourcing and development of luxury raw materials.
- Exceptional organisation skills with excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent time management with the ability to multi-task, delegate and prioritise.
- Proven track record delivering against margins, quality, price and delivery targets.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong knowledge of garment construction and finishing.
- Excellent problem solving and negotiation skills.
- Positive team player.
- Prepared to travel to Mexico, Turkey and Asia.
- Software proficiency including Zedonk and MS Office.