Knitwear Product Developer

JW Anderson is looking for a Knitwear Product Developer to join the team, responsible for managing the garment development process from the initial design stage through to prototype/SMS, and then to final sample approval for production.

Responsibilities of the Knitwear Product Developer

Development:

• Maintaining a supplier and manufacturer database. Responsible for sourcing in-line with seasonal sampling strategy.
• Work closely with Head of Development on collection planning and factory allocation.
• Work to Critical development timelines. Working closely with global manufacturers/Local hand Knitters/sampling ateliers and in house atelier. Always ensuring deadlines are adhered to.
• Responsible for tracking PD spend and reporting. Ensuring trackers are updated regularly and forecasts are accurate.
• Calculating sample make price from proto stage according to target margin & line-plan.
• Discussing production price and minimums with supplier to report and discuss with merchandising team.
• Organise and manage development fits. During these fits proposing finishing’s/trims, changes to yarn, commercial solutions and write precise fitting notes. Always ensuring the communication flows within team.
• Create detailed tech packs with specs and manage all areas the Knit development process.
• Work closely with Knitwear design team on the day-to-day development of the collection: ensuring they are aware of and adhering to deadlines and critical path.
• Flagging yarn performance issues to design to ensure considered in style allocation.
• Knowledge and understanding of technical specification sheets. Accountable for the accuracy of for tech packs sent out to factories.
• Responsible for ordering yarn and trims directly from manufacturers for prototypes and samples
• Accountable for ensuring all style information, prices and BOMS are in RLM on time and are accurate for production handover.
• Responsible for ensuring all the collection tools and charts are updated so communication on the collection is clear to all cross-functional departments.
• Work on special projects when needed and be open to working across categories when needed.

Pre-Production:

• All Knit handover to production: provide complete information on costing/BOM’s/technical data.
• Liaising with yarns mils, vendors & production to ensure relevant care instructions are flagged.
• Supporting technical & production team through production season to ensure product history is considered as and when issues arise.
• Liaise with vendors and yarn mills as applicable regarding yarn stock, lead times, ex-mill dates and ex-factory dates
• Ensure all required yarn information and certification is collated for the season

What JW Anderson is looking for:

• A minimum of 3 years' knitwear product development experience
• Good technical knitwear knowledge.
• Good understanding of Product development and production
• Good team player
• Experience of working with suppliers in the UK, Scotland, Ireland, Italy and China.
• Experience with pricing and tracking budgets
• Capability of working with multiple projects & cross-functional teams; partnering closely with the Design team.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Solution-oriented – problem solver, flexible and adaptable, resilient.
• Strong time management skills.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong IT skills, including Excel, Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Knowledge of RLM or other data PLM systems.

Application

Apply with a CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability and interest.

Equal Opportunity Statement

JW Anderson is an equal opportunities employer committed to fostering and preserving a culture of diversity, equality, and inclusion in our workforce. As an equal opportunities employer, we do not discriminate against applicants based on race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We believe that diversity enriches our workforce and strengthens our organisation. Therefore, we encourage minorities, LGBTQ+ candidates, and individuals with disabilities to apply for opportunities within our company.