Garment Technologist - Multi Product

Purpose:

To liaise and manage cross-functionally all aspects of garment/product specifications, construction,

fits and quality from concept/design to pre-production, and shipment stages within the confines of

the business-critical path.

Key Accountabilities:

• Involved in research and risk assessment of fabric selections, and garment constructions, and developing fit for purpose, right first-time product with the X-Functional team at development/presales periods.
• Responsible for developing base blocks/fits including the creation of measurement charts and full grading, for new product during development timelines.
• Overseeing and implementing the grading and tolerance rules of cross category styles on all size specifications.
• Work closely with the Design teams to review Proto samples and Salesman samples for all aspects of design specification, fits, colours, fabrics, and branding.
• Review all tech packs created by Design team- marrying design specification to production specifications taking full ownership of the product lifecycle into bulk production.
• Responsible for the management of fit, quality & right first time on time delivery for their assigned product categories.
• Lead product/garment Fit Sessions with the relevant X-Functional team members to review all aspects of products.
• Analyse and advise on technical fit issues whilst communicating accurate comments to suppliers.
• Working closely with the X-functional team to review, create and submit accurate comments product comments and maintain workbooks which are to be sent to each offshore supplier, within the specified timelines.
• Requesting, analysing, and approving of all bulk fabrics, bulk trims, and bulk print/embroidery strike-offs during pre-production stages.
• Requesting, analysing, and approving all relevant product/fabric test reports including reviewing subsequent care label artworks during pre-production stages
• Conducting inhouse wash tests/quality tests as part of the ongoing risk assessment of product during development and pre-production phases of critical path.
• Create and submit accurate comments for PP/Gold Seal for each supplier, within the specified timelines and ensuring product is approved for all detailed construction and that all previous design/production comments have been adhered too.
• Ensure all product information/approvals/comments are accurately updated into the business and department critical paths- ensuring any decisions are commercial/consider wider impacts to the business.
• Conduct where relevant wearer trials to ensure quality standards are maintained, keep an accurate logging system for these trails.
• Manage the returns and faulty reports on a weekly basis. Analysing the data and resolving/highlighting any quality issues with suppliers and implementing solutions
• Proactively highlight any potential issues to management teams with regards to quality/potential risks to maintain and elevate quality standards. Maintain a constant “what if’ approach.
• Delivering continuous improvement and creative solutions overseeing compliance long-term across Suppliers. always promoting quality.
• Support on QC checks as and when required on landed goods in the warehouse.
• Undertake audits by spot checking products and reporting on findings.
• Provide support to other departments/team members when required in UK and on trips.
• Seasonal X-Functional store-checks/visits.
• Liaise with offshore suppliers daily via email, phone, or other communication tools, clarifying queries and solving problems to maintain strong and professional relationships.
• Attend weekly meetings to discuss progress of critical path by style and inform dept. managers of any risks to product and timelines.
• Be aware of trading standards and testing requirements where applicable to ensure products compliance alongside dept. managers.
• Experience of working with offshore suppliers/factories

Requirements:

• A technically oriented fashion qualification, preferably at degree level, is essential, as is a relevant experience of a similar role in a fast-paced fashion environment.
• Multi-product experience: ability to move between product areas with assurance across both Womenswear, Menswear, and potentially accessories.
• Experience of working directly with factories, and understanding of factory production, workflow, production control, and equipment
• Comprehensive understanding of both Womenswear and Menswear, fitting and fit issues is essential.
• Pattern-cutting knowledge is desirable; knowledge of grading and grade rules is essential.
• Thorough understanding of garment construction, fabric technology & testing
• Able to work both independently and as part of a team.
• A positive attitude towards challenges and implementing solutions.
• Strong time-management skills; able to prioritise tasks & be flexible.
• Excellent attention to detail
• Clear concise communication is a must both written and verbally.
• Confident using Outlook and Excel
• Experience of working with offshore suppliers/factories