We are partnered with a beautiful luxury RTW womenswear brand, who requires an experienced Head of Product Development .
Key Responsibilities
Product Development Strategy & Execution
* Lead the end-to-end product development process for woven and knitwear collections, ensuring alignment with the creative vision and commercial objectives.
* Partner closely with design, merchandising, and production to build seasonal collections from initial concept through to final product.
* Manage the full critical path to ensure all development milestones and deadlines are met.
* Champion fabric innovation, advanced construction techniques, and material sourcing to elevate product quality and differentiation.
Supplier & Factory Management
* Utilise an established global network of fabric mills, yarn suppliers, and garment manufacturers to secure high-quality, cost-effective partners.
* Negotiate and manage supplier relationships, ensuring competitive pricing, lead times, and MOQs.
* Ensure all suppliers comply with brand standards across quality, sustainability, and ethical manufacturing.
Fit, Quality & Technical Development
* Oversee all garment fittings, pattern approvals, and technical specification reviews to maintain exceptional fit and quality.
* Collaborate with internal and external technical teams to resolve construction challenges across both woven and knitwear categories.
* Ensure consistency and excellence across all product ranges, upholding the brand’s premium standards.
Innovation & Sustainability
* Identify and integrate sustainable materials, fibres, and manufacturing processes to support the brand’s environmental commitments.
* Stay ahead of market and technological developments in fabric innovation, finishing techniques, and responsible sourcing.
* Partner with suppliers to develop exclusive fabrics and yarns that elevate product uniqueness.
Budget & Costing Management
* Partner with finance and production to build and manage product development budgets.
* Optimise cost structures while maintaining design integrity and product quality.
* Ensure all costings align with brand pricing architecture and margin targets.
Key Requirements
* 10+ years’ experience in fashion product development, with deep expertise across woven and knitwear.
* Proven track record developing premium or luxury collections.
* Strong industry network across mills, manufacturers, and sourcing partners.
* Expert knowledge of yarn development, fabric sourcing, and garment construction.
* Exceptional technical skills in fit and garment engineering.
* Ability to manage multiple collections simultaneously with meticulous attention to detail.
* Strong commercial awareness and understanding of market trends.
* Effective leadership skills, with experience mentoring and developing junior team members.
Technical Proficiency
* Proficient in PLM systems, Excel, Adobe Illustrator, and technical pack creation.
* Experienced in BOMs, tech packs, and fit approvals.
* Strong understanding of sustainable and ethical sourcing best practices.