Job Purpose
A leading fashion supplier is looking for an experienced Accessories Product Technologist to join their expanding team. The Accessories Product Technologist is responsible for ensuring all accessories are developed and manufactured to the required quality, safety, performance and fit standards. Working closely with Design, Buying, Merchandising and suppliers, the role manages products throughout the development process, ensuring they meet customer expectations, regulatory requirements, cost targets and critical path deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the technical development of accessories from concept through to production.
- Review product specifications and ensure they are commercially viable and technically achievable.
- Create, review and maintain accurate technical specifications and construction details.
- Advise Design and Buying teams on materials, construction methods and manufacturing techniques.
- Develop testing protocols appropriate to each product category.
- Review laboratory test reports and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and company standards.
- Investigate product failures and implement corrective actions with suppliers.
- Ensure products meet durability, functionality and performance expectations.
- Provide technical guidance throughout product development.
- Review samples and communicate clear technical comments.
- Support suppliers in resolving quality and manufacturing issues.
- Assess development, pre-production and production samples.
- Approve construction, measurements, workmanship and functionality.
- Ensure all technical comments are accurately documented and communicated.
- Ensure all products comply with relevant UK, EU and international legislation where applicable.
- Monitor changes in product safety regulations and communicate updates internally.
- Maintain technical documentation to support compliance requirements.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to meet development timelines.
- Identify potential risks and implement solutions to minimise delays.
- Support timely approvals to maintain the production schedule.
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience in an Accessories Product Technologist or Technical role.
- Strong knowledge of accessory construction and manufacturing techniques.
- Understanding of material performance including leather, synthetic materials, textiles, metals and plastics.
- Knowledge of product testing and quality assurance processes.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Strong organisational and project management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple product categories simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills.
- Strong problem-solving ability.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.