We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Garment Technology to lead our technical team and elevate product quality across all categories. This role is crucial to driving excellence in fit, construction, and compliance—ultimately reducing product returns and ensuring customer satisfaction. You will oversee the full product development lifecycle from concept to delivery, manage supplier technical relations, and develop robust technical processes.
The Role
Team Leadership & Development
* Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Garment Technology team across categories.
* Set and review team objectives aligned with business goals.
* Drive accountability, continuous training, and performance development.
Product Quality & Fit (Returns Reduction Focus)
* Own and optimise the fit approval process to ensure consistent quality and sizing across products.
* Analyse return data, identify root causes of product-related returns, and implement corrective actions to improve future developments.
* Collaborate with buying, design, and e-commerce to improve size guides, product descriptions, and fit consistency.
Critical Path & Process Management
* Lead the garment tech function in driving and maintaining the critical path to ensure timely sample approvals and production readiness.
* Create and manage robust processes to ensure product integrity from prototype to bulk.
* Identify process inefficiencies and lead change to improve speed, accuracy, and quality.
Supplier & Factory Management
* Lead technical onboarding of new suppliers to ensure they meet company standards and compliance.
* Build strong working relationships with suppliers and factories to resolve technical issues quickly and collaboratively.
* Oversee sealing processes, AQL standards, and factory audits as relevant.
Sourcing & Compliance Support
* Partner with sourcing and production teams to ensure selected suppliers are capable of delivering quality, consistent fit, and compliant garments.
* Contribute to risk assessments during supplier selection and support resolution of quality and compliance issues.
* Ensure raw materials and construction methods are aligned with sustainability, durability, and performance standards.
Labelling & Compliance
* Own the garment labelling process, including care labels, legal compliance, fibre content, and country of origin.
* Ensure all products meet labelling regulations across different territories and retailers.
Requirements
* Proven experience (8+ years) in garment technology with at least 3 years in a senior management role.
* Deep understanding of fit, pattern cutting, grading, construction, and manufacturing techniques across multiple categories
* Track record of reducing returns through strategic fit and quality improvements.
* Strong supplier management and onboarding experience.
* Excellent understanding of critical path and product development lifecycle.
* Knowledge of global labelling regulations and compliance standards.
* Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build strong cross-functional relationships.
* Highly organized with a process-driven mindset and strong attention to detail.
Benefits
* Birthday day off
* 25-day holiday
* Flexible hours
* Vibrant team
* 40% off staff discount
* Team socials
* Free Parking
* Competitions
* Hybrid working - 4 days in the Altrincham office