Head of Production

The Talent Mill AU & NZ - Designer, Luxury, Fashion Retail Recruitment; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 200,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous salary

Full-time onsite role

Relocation support available

Job summary

A leading fashion recruitment agency is seeking a Head of Production, responsible for overseeing the entire production process of garments from design to finished product. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in luxury apparel production, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring quality and timely delivery. This full-time onsite position in Melbourne offers a generous salary based on experience and is open to supporting relocation for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in luxury apparel production management.
• Strong leader with experience in managing offshore production teams.
• High level of analytical and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production from pre-production planning through delivery.
• Manage supplier relationships across local and offshore partners.
• Drive operational excellence through process improvements.

Skills

Apparel or couture production management

Technical understanding of garment construction

Leadership in managing supplier networks

Commercial acumen

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Production management systems proficiency

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Tools

NetSuite

Job description

1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Base pay range

$200,000.00/yr - $240,000.00/yr

The Role

The Head of Production oversees the delivery of all garments from design handover through to finished product, ensuring quality, timelines, and cost targets are met. This role translates design intent into commercially viable outcomes by managing production sampling, production planning, supplier relationships, and workflow efficiency across internal and offshore teams. Acting as the link between Design, Development, and Operations, the role drives excellence in make, fit and consistency, while continuously improving processes, systems, and partnerships to support the brand’s growth and uphold its luxury craftsmanship standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of production from pre‑production planning through delivery.
• Oversee factory production development, monitoring and supporting the work of the Senior Production Manager.
• Build and maintain seasonal production calendars, integrating development and manufacturing timelines.
• Oversee the management of supplier relationships across local and offshore partners.
• Accountable for the delivery of customer orders, on time and within budget.
• Oversee sourcing and onboarding of new factories in strategic locations.
• Ensures garment technology is in line with best practice, including the delivering the correct documentation.
• Own cost negotiation, purchase order processes, and supplier performance management.
• Collaborate closely with the finance team on cost tracking, margin management, and budget adherence.
• Launch new strategic programs around blanket ordering.
• Lead fabric management to maximise efficiency and minimise waste.
• Champion sustainable production practices and responsible sourcing initiatives.
• Drive operational excellence through process improvement, system integration, and supplier development.
• Lead and mentor the production team through a structured approach to meetings, managing workflow and a program of development.

The Skillset

• Extensive experience in apparel or couture production management within a luxury or premium environment.
• Strong technical understanding of garment construction, materials, and quality standards.
• Proven leadership in managing supplier networks and offshore production teams.
• High level of commercial acumen with ability to optimise cost, quality, and time parameters.
• Strong analytical, organisational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in production management systems and reporting tools (e.g., NetSuite or equivalent).
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with internal and external stakeholders.

The Offer

• Generous salary offering level with experience levels required.
• Full‑time onsite role.
• Open to supporting relocation.

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

The Talent Mill Recruitment division is a bespoke consultancy and talent acquisition specialist within the fashion, lifestyle and retail industries. With more than 10 years specialist expertise with luxury, lifestyle & fashion brands globally we discover, recognise and connect inspiring individuals to the most desirable brands as a trusted support to founder‑led start‑ups, SMEs and multinational corporations within the fashion & retail industry.

Seniority level: Director

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Production, Product Management, and Manufacturing

Industries: Retail Apparel and Fashion; Retail Luxury Goods and Jewelry