Senior Product Developer - 12 Month Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover)

To lead the end-to-end product development process across multiple categories, ensuring that luxury design intent is delivered to the highest standards of quality, fit, and finish. The Senior Product Developer will collaborate closely with cross functional teams, managing critical path timelines and overseeing development with external global suppliers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own the full product development lifecycle from initial concept through to final sample approval for assigned product categories.
• Translate design vision into commercially viable luxury products that meet cost, quality, and lead-time expectations.
• Source and manage external suppliers and manufacturers, primarily in Asia, ensuring strong relationships and production feasibility.
• Attend and lead development fittings; drive improvements and communicate changes clearly to suppliers.
• Work in close collaboration with the Design and Technical teams to ensure consistency of brand aesthetic and technical accuracy.
• Maintain and manage the development critical path, ensuring all key milestones are met on time.
• Track and report on development costs, advising on options for margin improvement and supplier negotiation where needed.
• Support sustainability goals by identifying responsible materials and practices during the development process.
• Travel to supplier locations and factories (primarily in Asia) to manage sampling, quality, and production handover.
• Mentoring and management of junior PD team members.

Key Accountabilities:

• On-time delivery of development samples to the agreed critical path.
• Achieving margin and cost targets without compromising quality or brand standards.
• Managing strong supplier relationships and ensuring accountability on timelines, quality, and compliance.
• Effective cross-functional communication, especially with Design, Merchandising, and Production teams.
• Maintenance of accurate and up-to-date product development documentation and systems.
• Championing product innovation and high craftsmanship standards throughout the process.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in product development within the luxury, premium fashion and/or occasion wear sector.
• Strong understanding of garment construction, fabrications, and finishing standards across womenswear product including experience in developing complex embellishments.
• Proven experience working with international suppliers.
• Demonstrated ability to manage the development lifecycle in line with critical path deadlines.
• Strong supplier management and negotiation skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple products and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Working knowledge of Adobe software.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally as required.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Formal education in Fashion Design, Product Development, or related field.
• Knowledge of sustainable materials and responsible sourcing practices.