Job purpose
To provide technical support to deliver quality, innovation, safety, compliance, and ethics that differentiate the Client from the High Street. The position is likely to be within the menswear department so Menswear skills would be preferable.
Key Responsibilities
Responsible for a range of department and if applicable providing support to the Technology team across the Department acting on behalf of the Technologist to represent the Client externally and the Department internally
Work independently as appropriate to the range/department to deliver clear specifications on Design Tech packs to include blocks, fit, fabric quality, made well standards, construction & components in adherence with Environmental Policy
Ensure block library is up to date and seasonal patterns are in work in adherence to the critical path
Critical path - ensure all technical deadlines are met in line with BU critical path and continually working to optimise leadtimes whilst maintaining product technical standards
Approve all development samples in line with agreed process.
Carry out ongoing cost engineering to ensure all products are optimised commercially whilst still meeting the Client’s standards.
Working closely with raw material suppliers and where relevant with the Central fabric technology team, to ensure quality feedback and innovation is embedded into the material strategy and seasonal material workshops
Risk assess new materials are appropriate for end use.
Maintain the business raw material sourcing strategy within the department,
Benchmark the Client’s product against competitors ensuring market leading position and feed into Product development strategy
Deliver innovation, driving commercial customer focused benefit in line with Design, Product & innovation strategy.
Drive & Deliver business Plan A requirements with buying and design, in line with business strategy
Keep abreast of the latest technology trends in raw materials, fabric, fibre, manufacturing techniques and relevant packaging. Feeding into the product development process
Drive the development of the business digital development strategy working with UK and Sourcing Office teams & suppliers
Manage adherence to product safety, compliance and ethical standards in line with legislation and corporate policy
Assist and coordinate with customer services on customer contracts relating to product failures
Monitor the voice of our customer around Quality, fit & performance and build into the ongoing product development strategy
In the event of Quality failure highlight and work alongside supply Base and Sourcing Office colleagues to resolve
Act as business ambassador internally and externally protecting all sustainability, safety, ethical and environmental requirements
Build strong relationships across UK and global teams.
Adhere to agreed ways of working and helping to develop global best practice.
Provide technical knowledge to assist stores, departments, marketing & digital selling
Ensure all PLM data is accurate at tech pack stage to include material details and components added to BOM , blocks, measurements, colour coding, innovation and Plan A
Key skills required:
Ability to learn new technical skills, absorb information and manage own personal development
Excellent communication skills within the Technical Function, Design and Buying, Supply Base and Global Sourcing Offices
Ability to interpret Departmental Strategy and provide insights based on technical knowledge
Multi tasked orientated working to tight deadlines, understanding when to take decisions and when to seek guidance
To be able to analyse data (CIU, Bizarre Voice, QPI’s, PLM) and drive insights to support strategic thinking
Knowledge and experience of creating product specifications
Ability to manage departmental data and leverage the Client’s systems to enable strategic reporting
Ability to work across multiple sourcing models
Ability to embrace change and strive to embed new process and ways of working.