* Build close working relationships with category teams (buying and design) to deliver product strategy, including sustainability targets
* Support Buying from initial prototype to production sign off (including critical path adherence and management), working with buying and design teams to ensure quality and safety are 'designed in' to product. Risk assess products at initial development stage to ensure that they are feasible, safe and legally compliant.
* Work with suppliers to achieve the most cost-effective production methods to deliver the required quality standards.
* Ensure all product testing is effectively managed and maintained; that quality processes are properly followed to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
* Liaise closely with the India and China QA teams to ensure effective tracking of all product testing and to utilise their experience and knowledge of suppliers to better understand the capabilities of supply base.
* Review returns data and customer feedback to ensure product is aligned to fulfil customer expectations and drive improvements where required.
* Liaise with our Distribution Centre QC Department on any queries relating to quality inspections and follow through with buying teams and suppliers.
* Have an understanding of the technical capability of suppliers, including factory visits and audits (including the developing of CAP's).
* Liaise with overseas offices to follow up on factory visits and audits and support the offices to ensure these are actioned in a timely manner.
* Work with our Ethical Trading manager to follow up on SMETA reports and factory audits. Carry out ethical risk assessment, based on H & S issues during factory visits where appropriate.
* Work with the Technical Manager as and when there are upcoming changes to legislation, to ensure that buying, design and suppliers are made aware in good time.
* Carry our regular visits to stores to see ranges and get feedback on any issues they are having with product.
* Regular analysis of returns reports to identify issues in a timely fashion and to drive improvement.
* Manage the Due Diligence testing program for jewellery and hair products
* A working knowledge of international requirements would be advantageous., Quality Assurance: Conduct thorough evaluations of product (including 'Collection' 'Z', Sterling silver and Angels ranges and all hair products) to ensure they meet quality, safety and legal requirements. Ensure they align with construction requirements.
Product Evaluation: Work with Buying on product development at conception stage to 'design in' quality at an early stage and ensure supplier is aware of all testing and certification requirements. Technical Specifications: Collaborate with buying and design to ensure technical specifications are kept up to date, including measurement charts, construction methods and material requirements. Compliance and Regulations: Ensure products meet all applicable regulations, certifications as well as testing and labelling requirements. Stay up to date with industry regulations, safety standards, and legal requirements related to the category. Liaise with international partners to ensure we comply with requirements for all the markets we currently supply. Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, buyers, ethical trading and overseas offices in India and China to ensure smooth communication, resolve technical challenges, and align on product requirements. Continuous Improvement: Stay informed about emerging technologies, industry trends, and manufacturing techniques. Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost optimisation, and innovation within the jewellery development and production process.
* Proven experience at Technologist Level
* Can confidently self-manage products, liaise with buyers and suppliers ensuring commercial requirements are met.
* Degree educated or equivalent in a relevant qualification
* Proven experience in kids and ladies jewellery and hair products
* Experience in supplying international markets
* Passionate about Accessorize product, getting the right quality product in stores for customers and maintaining our quality standards, Bachelor's degree in jewellery design, or a related field is preferred.
* Proven experience as a Technologist, or in a similar role.
* Strong knowledge of product construction techniques including casting, plating, assembly methods, hallmarking as well as quality and safety standards across all jewellery and hair product areas (ladies and kids)
* Excellent attention to detail and the ability to identify and resolve quality issues.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
* Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
* Knowledge of industry regulations, certifications, and sustainability practices.
* Interest in learning about other product areas within the Accessorize brand with a view to covering either as an additional category or to cover absences and holidays.
* Enthusiasm for product and an ability to get on with a wide range of people and to build great working relationships in a great working team!
Competitive salary
* 25 days holiday with the option to purchase additional holiday through our salary sacrifice scheme.
* Bonus day off each year after 6 months service
* A pension that you will automatically be enrolled in after 3 months.
* Life assurance (subject to participating in the pension scheme)
* A flexible working approach.
* Early pay day Friday finish
* A generous staff discount with up to 50% discount on our products
* Interest free season ticket loans
* Discounted gym membership at our on-campus gym
If this all sounds great and you feel you are who we are looking for, let us know and apply today. At Monsoon Accessorize we don't focus only on what we do, we also care about how we do it. Our values and the way we behave are important to us. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and an environment where we value and respect every individual's unique contribution, enabling all of our employees to thrive and achieve their full potential. We want to attract the broadest range of talented people and are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief. We will also consider flexible working requests for all roles, unless operational requirements prevent otherwise.