Product Developer

Quba & Co Ltd ,
Stockport, Greater Manchester
Salary: Unspecified Free Parking, Pension Scheme, 28 Days Annual Leave,

Overview

Quba & Co is a growing lifestyle retailer with a nautical heritage. Founded in 1996 in Salcombe, Devon our stores are predominantly in the South West of England with further plans to expand the store portfolio and a growing online presence. We specialise in jackets created from reclaimed canvas sailcloth, while expanding our offering over the years to produce a wide range of premium nautical inspired clothing and accessorises for both men and women (and dogs). Whether you work in one of our beautifully designed stores, our head office or one of our warehouse buildings, all our staff have one thing in common; passion in our brand and pride in being part of the Quba & Co journey. As a niche retail business, with a Head Office in Stockport, we are recruiting for a Product Developer to join our team at our Head Office in Stockport . Quba & Co is a fun brand which sells high quality men’s and women’s fashion from our stores around the coast and online. Fully responsible for managing and overseeing the product development critical path to meet the evolving needs of the business across brand and category content. Responsibility for development and management of processes and products ranges which satisfy the technical and quality requirements of the brand. Responsibility for all aspects of sizing, fit and of QA and QC across the brand . Key Responsibilities Product Development Fully responsible and accountable for all aspect of the garment production, quality, fit and sizing and brand message requirements of the brand, liaising with the relevant people to make decisions, being fully responsible for managing all timelines, problems, concerns and issues to achieve workable solutions Managing the critical path of the product development process of products from start to finish, from initial brief until the product arrives in the DC, then QC procedures before distribution Working closely with management/ design/merchandisers to determine critical path dates, putting in place a meeting schedule in line with the critical path, and implement / communicate any changes as and when they occur Constantly working to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the production process Where required producing detailed product specification based upon the design concept handed over from the design team Review all technical packs from design to ensure they are “fit for purpose” to ensure smooth process Measure & fit all fit specific garments, ensuring that all comments and fits are done on time and in line with the product critical path. Maintain keen awareness of competitor activity and product development trends Leading the production process for all aspects of garment construction, keeping up to date with technical innovations to support departments within the department. Liaising with Designers to ensure designs suit production methods available and are cost effective Work closely with Design to establish any new fabrics or yarns that are needed for the next season. Work with suppliers to develop these fabrics/yarns Manage the timeline of getting stock from the factory to the warehouse Ensure the final product meets brand and customer specifications Ensure all relevant documentation and records are kept up to date Ensure all fabric, technical, fit/care and other product selling information is provided clearly and efficiently to the web team, merchandising, retail and other teams Implement and request testing to monitor and control fabric and garment performance. Supplier Liaison and Management Supplier management Complete supplier audits and evaluations to ensure they comply with the code of conduct and legislation Agree with Management which factories to cost each product and collate detailed costing, fabric details etc. for review Maintain effective and positive relationships with the factory and suppliers Occasional overseas travel to factories to maintain and develop relationships with suppliers Care label approval and responsible for approving correct information from factories. Deal with any problems and seeking workable solutions with suppliers Establish appropriate guidelines and procedures for all suppliers as to what our QA, QC & fit requirements are Ensure that product delivered is within tolerance, suitably packed/ compliant with delivery/specification, and if there are any discrepancies agree action with management and liaise with suppliers order to agree discounts, recoup costs, impose fines This list is not exhaustive and there may be other tasks and responsibilities appropriate for the product developer role that are required This job was originally posted as www.totaljobs.com/job/89783438