We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Menswear Senior Product Developer to join our dynamic team. The Senior Product Developer is responsible for delivering the end-to-end development of product, ensuring each style is executed to the highest standards of quality, fit, functionality and commercial performance. Working closely with Design, Garment Technology, Production and Sourcing teams, the role drives product excellence while maintaining the critical path, target margins and the brand's design vision. You will collaborate with key stakeholders to manage the product development process, from fabric selection to production, and ensure timely delivery of market-ready products.
Manage the end-to-end development of assigned product categories from concept through to bulk production, ensuring all products are delivered on time, within target cost and to the highest quality standards.
Partner closely with Design, Product Management, Garment Technology and Production teams to translate creative concepts into commercially successful, production-ready products.
Own the product development critical path, proactively identifying risks, resolving issues and ensuring all development milestones are achieved.
Attend design direction meetings, contributing product, fabric and construction expertise while supporting the evolution of the collection.
Lead the development and sourcing of fabrics, trims, branding, graphics, embroidery techniques and packaging to deliver innovative, commercially viable products aligned with the brand aesthetic.
Evaluate fabric and trim options, balancing quality, performance, cost, lead time and sustainability throughout the development process.
Build strong working relationships with global suppliers, fabric mills and manufacturers through regular communication, development meetings and factory visits to support product quality and continuous improvement.
Produce and maintain detailed technical packs, Bills of Materials (BOMs), product specifications and PLM information, ensuring factories have accurate documentation to deliver high-quality first prototypes.
Manage initial product costing and analyse cost breakdowns, working with suppliers to achieve target costs and support margin objectives.
Work closely with Garment Technologists to review garment construction, size specifications, fit, fabric performance and technical feasibility throughout development.
Attend fit sessions, prototype reviews and product evaluations, providing technical recommendations to improve fit, construction, quality and functionality.
Identify styles that require wear testing, coordinating with the appropriate teams to conduct testing and ensure product durability and functionality.
Collaborate with the team to bring world-class, fit-for-purpose products to market that meet Represent’s high standards of design and quality.
Take ownership of day-to-day operational tasks in design and product development, ensuring that all objectives set by the Head of Menswear are met in alignment with the company’s vision.
Attend key fabric trade fairs and visit stores in style capitals to stay informed on industry trends, brand adjacencies, and new fabric innovations.
Prioritize sustainable fabrics, trims, and packaging options, aligning with the brand’s commitment to sustainability where possible.
Regularly assess and appraise factory performance, providing feedback to the Production Manager and Head of Menswear to ensure production standards are met.
Ensure the current supply base is compliant with the brand’s ethical and operational standards, maintaining transparency across all processes.
Provide both creative and technical expertise to ensure all garments are designed and developed with functionality and fit in mind
Key Skills
Appropriate qualification in apparel sector or equivalent work experience
Extensive experience in product development within premium, luxury or branded apparel.
Experience working with global Activewear / Sportswear apparel brands
Excellent garment construction and engineering skills
Sound understanding of fabrics
Knowledge of pattern making an advantage but not essential
Demonstrate a pro-active approach to problem solving
Flexible and open to evolving business needs and priorities
Strong commercial awareness with an ability to identify risk and confidently provide solutions
Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple product categories and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Extensive knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Excel, PowerPoint &Word
Ability to analyse Costing BOM’s and offer viable solutions and ideas
Hands on when required. Be prepared to assist at all levels
Experience in dealing with target prices & obtaining initial cost prices.
