Senior Product Developer - United Kingdom - New Era Cap

Description

Job Description

The role of the Senior Apparel Product Developer - Apparel requires involvement through the entire product creation process from concept to delivery. Working closely with Product Merchandising, Design and Sourcing, the Senior Developer's main goal is to get the best product at the best cost point, and delivered on time.

The Senior Product Developer- Apparel reports to the Product Development Manager – Apparel EMEA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the product creation process from initial concept through to commercialization and production for the apparel product line to lead to on time delivery and development.
• Responsible for the development process of all seasonal apparel product; create specs, grading, bill of materials, detailed drawings etc.
• Work closely with suppliers in different regions during all phases of the product development process (including sourcing of trims/fabrics).
• Responsible for cost review and negotiation to meet target FOB prices and profit margins during the development phase.
• Track and facilitate sampling and prototyping for products.
• Analyse and comment on prototypes to ensure that quality, construction, fit is aligned with brand needs and accurately reflect construction specifications.
• Ensure correct and consistent fit through block work & grade rules.
• Transmit all information related to sample and bulk production to the factory – Travel may be required for product review with factory.
• Identify and address key issues and challenges in product construction, material selection, manufacturing, pricing; and plan accordingly to deliver proven and tested products.
• Monitor and communicate progress and challenges throughout the product testing process to meet product integrity requirements.
• Responsible for risk assessment of garments, print, embellishment & components.
• Ensure projects are completed within corporate guidelines and goals for all facets of product creation.
• Approve styles for SMS & handover for bulk production.
• Contribute to ensure on time delivery for SMS & bulk production.
• Keep abreast of market trends, new fabrics/techniques and consumer needs throughout the development process.
• Research and understand manufacturing capabilities.
• Support the Product Development Manager – Apparel to guide and mentor the Product Developer & Junior Product Developers.

Knowledge and Experience

Thorough knowledge and product development experience, you must be able to demonstrate skills and knowledge in each of the following areas:

• 8+ years' experience in a similar role
• Sound Knowledge of fabrics & trims
• Strong technical understanding of garment construction and materials, textiles, tech pack creation.
• Full understanding of patterns, fit and grade rules for men's and women's wear.
• Knowledge of costing and ability to negotiate as required.
• Strong knowledge of the apparel engineering and manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of wear and physical product testing.
• Experienced with materials sourcing, costing and negotiating skills.
• Experienced with communicating with factories.

Personal and Leadership

• Through experience, you must be able to demonstrate:
• Global outlook towards fashion, performance and lifestyle trends.
• Communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work as a team player.
• Self-starter with a pro-active approach to work and the ability to work independently and in collaboration with the teams in New Era.
• Attention to detail and strong sense of responsibility.
• A Keen eye for detail and ability to address, record & communicate problems as they arise
• Ability to spot issues in production and manage a meticulous quality control process
• A positive work attitude
• Ability to mentor Junior members of the team
• Ability to support the Product Development Manager

Education

• Higher Diploma/Bachelor Degree in Textile/Clothing or related disciplines.
• Demonstrable relevant working experience ideally in branded apparel
• skills – must have experience in using Illustrator and Excel. PLM knowledge an advantage.
• command of written and spoken English.

Please note that this role is 4 days in our Milton Keynes office and 1 day work from home.