Darren Monaghan

With over 25 years of experience in luxury fashion production, design, and supply chain management, I bring a proven track record of driving growth and efficiency across diverse fashion collections. My expertise spans all stages of the production cycle, from initial design and material sourcing to final delivery, ensuring both high-quality output and on-time, within-budget results.

Having worked with a range of designer brands, I am skilled in critical path planning, cost management, and supplier relations. I also have extensive experience in implementing sustainable production strategies and utilising industry-standard software to streamline operations and enhance profitability.

As a highly motivated and adaptable team leader, I thrive in fast-paced environments.

 Please feel free to contact me.

Experienced and results-driven fashion production specialist with a strong background in managing high-end fashion collections, luxury manufacturing, and retail production. Adept in product development, critical path management, supplier relations, quality control, and cost management. Skilled at driving profitability through strategic planning, resource allocation, and continuous process improvements. Passionate about sustainability and innovation within the fashion industry. Expertise spans from design concept to finished product, ensuring seamless integration across all stages of production.

Core Skills & Competencies

• Fashion Production Management
• Product Development
• Pattern Cutting 
• Garment Construction
• Sustainability in Fashion
• Critical Path Management
• Sourcing Suppliers & Manufacturers
• Supplier & Vendor Relations
• Cost Management & Budget Planning
• Fashion Design
• Tech Packs & Fabric Approvals
• Production Planning & Scheduling
• Quality Control (QC)
• Market Analysis & Trend Forecasting
• Zedonk ERP System
• Microsoft Excel & Financial Modelling
• Adobe Photoshop & Design Software
• Negotiation & Contract Management
• Retail & Wholesale Strategy
• Supply Chain Management

Freelance Production Specialist | Luxury Fashion

December 2019 – Present
Specialising in fashion production management for both established and emerging luxury designers.

• Developed and implemented production plans to ensure timely and cost-efficient delivery of high-quality collections.
• Collaborated with design teams to source sustainable fabrics, trims, and manufacturing partners, prioritising eco-friendly practices.
• Managed critical paths, resource allocation, and quality assurance processes across multiple product categories, including ready-to-wear, accessories, and footwear.
• Oversaw production timelines and adjusted strategies to ensure alignment with brand identity and market demands.

Sales Executive | Zedonk

November 2018 – September 2019

• Increased sales of Zedonk's fashion production software by demonstrating product features and benefits to potential clients.
• Provided tailored software solutions to enhance client operations, including stock management, production scheduling, and order tracking.
• Ensured excellent customer service, addressing client queries and offering troubleshooting support for software issues.

Production & Studio Manager | Anna Scholz

December 2008 – September 2018

• Managed the full production cycle, ensuring timely delivery of luxury collections within established budget constraints.
• Directed cross-functional teams, including design, technical, and production teams, to maintain a consistent flow of high-quality product deliveries.
• Developed and maintained relationships with suppliers, conducting factory visits and implementing rigorous QC checks to ensure compliance with brand standards.
• Conducted fittings, approved lab dips, and fabric test reports to ensure the highest level of quality and craftsmanship.
• Utilised Zedonk ERP for inventory management, production tracking, and financial planning to drive profitability and operational efficiency.

Production Manager | Joyce Ridings

August 2006 – November 2008

• Spearheaded production strategy for four seasonal collections, increasing wholesale revenue by 150% in the first season.
• Researched and established a strong supply chain, sourcing both domestic and overseas manufacturers for a wide range of fashion categories.
• Enhanced production processes through the implementation of advanced garment construction and manufacturing techniques.

Sales & Production Manager | Lezley George

September 1993 – July 2006

• Drove sales growth from £100K to £1.4M by expanding into international markets (UK, Europe, Middle East, US, and Far East) and securing key retail accounts such as Net-a-Porter, Selfridges, and Harrods.
• Designed and produced high-quality accessory collections, aligning with brand aesthetics and consumer demand.
• Implemented Zedonk ERP to improve stock management, costing accuracy, and profit margins.

Assistant Brand Manager | Dollargrand

September 1991 – August 1993

• Led design and development of handbag and hat collections, contributing to the brand's creative direction.
• Organised and participated in sales exhibitions in London and Paris to expand brand base.

Technical Tools & Software

• Zedonk (ERP & Fashion Production Software)
• Microsoft Excel (Financial Modelling & Data Analysis)
• Adobe Photoshop (Design & Garment Rendering)

Professional Development & Certifications

• Sustainable Fashion Practices (ongoing)
• Excel

Languages

·        English 

BA (Hons) Fashion Design  |  Central Saint Martins School of Art | 1988 - 1991