ROLE PROFILE
The WHY
The Lead Product Developer & Designer is a hands-on leader working closely with the Creative & Product Director and wider Product team.
The role is responsible for translating the seasonal creative vision into exceptional luxury womenswear collections through best-in-class product development and technical execution. Leading the end-to-end development process, you will ensure every style delivers the highest standards of fit, quality, craftsmanship and commerciality.
Working cross-functionally with Creative, Sourcing, Production and Merchandising, you will drive product from concept to production, managing supplier development, technical refinement and critical path delivery. Whilst the primary focus of the role is product development, you will play an integral role in supporting the Founder & Creative Director throughout the design development process. This includes creating and refining CADs, developing technical drawings, evolving product details and ensuring creative concepts are translated into beautifully executed luxury products.
ROLE ACCOUNTABILITY
The WHAT
Responsible for:
Leading the end-to-end product development process, translating the Creative & Product Director's vision into commercially successful luxury womenswear.
Managing product development from concept through to production, ensuring exceptional fit, quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Creating and maintaining technical packs, CADs, specifications and product documentation to support accurate supplier execution.
Leading fittings, sample reviews and product refinement, working closely with Garment Technology, Pattern Cutting and suppliers to resolve fit and construction challenges.
Partnering with Sourcing, Production, Merchandising and suppliers to optimise materials, costs, critical path and product performance.
Driving efficient product development processes, identifying opportunities to improve quality, speed to market and sampling efficiency.
Supporting seasonal product innovation through trend, competitor and market research.
Mentoring and developing junior team members while fostering collaboration across the wider Product team.
Support the Founder & Creative Director by translating initial concepts into refined CADs, technical drawings and development-ready products.
Accountable for:
Delivering luxury products that meet brand standards for fit, quality, craftsmanship and commercial performance.
Achieving key development milestones and critical path deadlines from concept to production.
Maintaining accurate technical specifications, product approvals and costing documentation.
Driving continuous improvement across product development, supplier performance and development efficiency.
Building strong cross-functional relationships to ensure seamless product execution and successful seasonal launches.
Developing a high-performing product development team through coaching, collaboration and best practice.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
The HOW
Essential Skills & Experience
Proven experience in luxury or premium womenswear product development.
Strong technical knowledge of garment construction, pattern cutting, fit, fabrication and luxury finishing.
Experience leading end-to-end product development from concept through to production.
Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft Office, with experience creating technical packs, CADs and product documentation.
Strong experience working with global suppliers across fabric, trim and product development.
Excellent understanding of critical path management, costing and commercial product delivery.
Proven ability to lead fittings, sample reviews and product refinement to achieve exceptional quality and fit.
Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance creativity, quality and margin.
Demonstrated leadership experience, with the ability to coach, mentor and develop high-performing teams.
Excellent organisation, communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Strong trend awareness and market insight, with the ability to translate customer and commercial opportunities into successful product.
Preferred Skills & Experience:
Experience working with international supply chains and manufacturing partners.
Exposure to product innovation, new category development and sustainable materials.
Knowledge of digital product development tools, including 3D sampling.
Experience within a scaling or high-growth premium or luxury fashion business.
Understanding of omnichannel product strategy and customer-led product development.
Degree or qualification in Fashion, Product Development or a related technical discipline.
