Head of Development and Production - RTW

Axel Arigato; London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A contemporary fashion brand in London seeks a Head of Development & Production to oversee the product lifecycle of Ready-to-Wear and Accessories. The ideal candidate will have 5-10 years of experience in fashion, strong leadership skills, and expertise in international product development. This full-time position requires collaboration across teams to ensure product quality and alignment with strategic goals.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing development and production for RTW or fashion apparel (5-10 years).
• Ability to build and nurture multidisciplinary teams reflecting company values.
• Expertise in supply chain and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the Development & Production team.
• Collaborate with Design to translate concepts into products.
• Oversee the critical path to meet timelines.

Skills

Team leadership

Strategic problem-solving

International product development

Communication skills

Data-driven mindset

Job description

We are looking for a dynamic and passionate leader to join us as Head of Development & Production – RTW, based in our London office in Farringdon.

In this key role, you’ll play a crucial part in our journey and contribute to the growth of our Ready-to-Wear, Accessories and Objects collections in line with our brand vision.

More About The Role And Team

As Head of Development and Production – RTW, you will oversee the end-to-end product lifecycle, from sketch handover to final product delivery. Reporting directly to and working closely with the Chief Product Officer, you’ll lead, inspire, and grow a dynamic development and production team. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Sustainability, Buying & Trade, Commercial, and Operations to bring our product vision to life.

You’ll be responsible for the strategy and execution of RTW, Accessories, and Objects development, sourcing, and production, ensuring alignment with the company’s overall strategy and goals. You will manage both short- and long-term project plans that fuel the RTW pipeline with aspirational and innovative products.

You will also be responsible for delivering key metrics, including time to market, margin, quality, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the Development & Production team for RTW in their daily work and progress
• Collaborate with the Design team to translate creative concepts into products that align with our brand, our customers’ expectations, and market demands
• Oversee and manage the critical path to ensure that timelines are consistently met and aligned with internal stakeholder expectations
• Lead the development of seasonal collections from concept to final delivery, ensuring quality, timing, and alignment with brand vision
• Develop and drive the sourcing strategy for RTW, constantly reviewing and adapting sourcing needs to new market situations
• Nurture and build key manufacturing partner relationships, ensuring high levels of trust and collaboration
• Own and manage margin targets by driving cost-efficient development, accurate pricing strategies, and alignment with financial goals across the product lifecycle
  
  

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone with most of the following:

• Proven experience in managing development and production for RTW or fashion apparel (5-10 years), ideally within a contemporary or luxury brand environment
• Strong team leadership skills, with the ability to build and nurture multidisciplinary teams that reflect our DROP values: Diversity, Respect, Openness, and Passion
• Expertise in international product development, supply chain, and manufacturing processes, with a robust network of global partners and suppliers
• Strategic problem-solver with excellent communication, negotiation, and project management skills
• Data-driven mindset with a proven ability to manage budgets, timelines, and complex operational frameworks
• Fluency in English
  
  

ARE YOU THE ONE?

We believe you'll be successful in this role if:

• You thrive in fast-paced, ever-evolving environments and are motivated by creating impact at both a strategic and operational level
• You take a collaborative, hands-on approach and enjoy mentoring others to achieve shared goals
• You believe in the power of community, creativity, and inclusivity to drive business and personal growth
• You’re committed to modern product development practices and passionate about delivering exceptional collections to a global audience
  
  

We are a proud equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce. Join us as we continue to reshape the RTW landscape with creativity, collaboration, and passion.

How To Apply

Apply by submitting your CV in English. Our recruitment process is grounded in competencies; we kindly ask you not to include your picture or age with your application.

We process applications continuously and may fill the position before the final application date.

Estimated start date: ASAP

Contract type: Full-time

Location: London, UK (with regular travel to suppliers and production partners)

About Axel Arigato

Since its founding in Sweden 10 years ago, Axel Arigato has consistently celebrated the intersectionality of design, music, and art. The brand creates footwear and ready-to-wear that speaks to this creative cultural landscape while remaining loyal to its minimal Scandinavian origins.

With ten flagship stores across six countries and partnerships with over 250 international retailers, it embraces a global creative perspective. Constantly evolving with the rhythm of contemporary culture, Axel Arigato collaborates with a diverse array of voices as part of an ever-growing community. The brand thrives on fostering human connection—its cultural initiatives, curated experiences, and well-crafted design ignite inspiration and encourage discovery.

OUR VALUES: DROP

Diversity, Respect, Openness, and Passion are the values we live and breathe. They are the foundation of our culture and the driving force behind our future.