Product Developer

Key ResponsibilitiesProduct Development* Manage the complete product development lifecycle from initial concept through to pre-production.* Own and manage the critical path, ensuring key milestones and deadlines are achieved.* Deliver prototypes and samples on time, within budget and to the required quality standards.* Identify development risks early and implement solutions to minimise delays or quality issues.* Ensure products meet customer, brand and commercial requirements throughout development.

Design Partnership* Build a close working relationship with Design teams, acting as their technical partner.* Attend fittings and provide technical advice on construction, functionality and feasibility.* Develop creative solutions that preserve the original design vision while ensuring manufacturability.* Collaborate with Product Engineering to ensure products meet required testing and performance standards.

Vendor Management* Develop strong partnerships with suppliers and manufacturers.* Maintain an in-depth understanding of vendor capabilities and production capacity.* Negotiate costs, technical specifications and aesthetic changes while protecting design intent.* Support production meetings and oversee technical requirements for prototypes and pre-production samples.

Technical Excellence* Ensure products are functional, consistent and fit for purpose.* Conduct ongoing technical risk assessments throughout development.* Drive improvements in construction, quality and manufacturing processes.* Maintain accurate product data and documentation within PLM, ensuring 100% data accuracy.

Team Support* Coach, support and develop Product Development Assistants.* Foster a collaborative, accountable and innovative working environment.

Skills & ExperienceThe successful candidate will demonstrate:* Proven experience managing the end-to-end product development process within the luxury or premium fashion industry.* Strong technical product knowledge within a relevant product category.* Experience partnering closely with Design teams to translate creative concepts into commercially viable products.* Excellent critical path management skills with the ability to prioritise multiple projects.* Strong commercial awareness, balancing creativity with cost and margin objectives.* Experience managing supplier relationships, negotiating costs and delivering clear technical briefs.* Practical knowledge of factory operations and experience working directly with manufacturers.* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to influence cross-functional teams.* Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to identify and resolve technical challenges throughout development.* A strong understanding of luxury fashion, market trends and consumer expectations.* Proficiency in PLM systems, Microsoft Excel and Adobe InDesign.

Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Impellam Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.