Job Description
The role of 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 Product Developer’s main goal is to get the best product at the best cost point, and delivered on time.
The Product Developer- Apparel reports to the Senior Product Developer – 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.
* 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 & 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.
Knowledge and Experience
Thorough knowledge and product development experience, you must be able to demonstrate skills and knowledge in each of the following areas:
* 2-5 years’ experience in a similar role
* Strong technical understanding of garment construction and materials, textiles, tech pack creation.
* Understanding of patterns, fit and grade rules for men’s and women’s wear.
* Understanding of Textile testing
* Knowledge of the apparel engineering and manufacturing processes.
* Experience with materials sourcing, preliminary costing and negotiating skills
* Knowledge of fabrics & trims
* Experience with communicating with factories.
* Must achieve “Superior” level on Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue test[AL1][MS2][MS3] - will be administered during interview process
Qualifications and Achievements
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
Education
* Higher Diploma/Batchelor Degree in Textile/Clothing or related disciplines.
* Demonstrable relevant working experience ideally in branded apparel
* IT skills – must have experience in using Illustrator and Excel. Centric PLM knowledge an advantage.
* Good command of written and spoken English.
Please note that this role is 4 days working in our Milton Keynes office, and 1 day working from home.