Mainline Product Coordinator - Italian and English Speaker

Margaret Howell Limited; London; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job description

Margaret Howell is a contemporary British clothing designer who has worked successfully in men’s and women’s clothing for over five decades. Today, Margaret Howell clothes are sold worldwide with 12 own shops in Europe, over 100 outlets in Japan and an established online business.

We are seeking a highly organised and motivated individual to assist with executing the design critical path (CP). The successful candidate will develop sample collections and effectively communicate within the Company and with external suppliers for all multi-category products (excluding knitwear) in the Mainline range. They will ensure high-quality products that are competitively priced and support Company targets through timely delivery.

Location
Head office, W1/Remote
Required on site 3 days per week

Hours
Part or Full-time availability
28 to 35 hours - (4 or 5 days per week)

Key Responsibilities

• Liaise between designers and suppliers to develop the Mainline collection in line with the Critical Path (CP). Advise on cost, MOQs, and supplier capability to ensure buy-appropriate final products.
• Act as the main point of contact for all woven, accessories, and Mainline suppliers, building strong relationships and meet CP deadlines. Engage directly with suppliers based in Italy, the UK, Portugal, and Japan.
• Collaborate on seasonal supplier allocation, balancing product suitability with consistent buy depth to support supplier production planning, aligned with responsible purchasing and ethical trade practices.
• Ensure timely delivery of all samples in line with the seasonal CP, overseeing completion of technical specifications, design packs, BOMs, and graded specs.
• Liaise with the Company’s Shirtline manufacturing unit and Senior Pattern Cutter to develop the Mainline shirt range. Communicate timely and accurate information regarding pattern plans, product development, BOMs, fabric, and sample requirements.
• Lead all Mainline garment fittings, ensuring accurate measurements, detailed fitting notes, and clear supplier communication.
• Negotiate cost prices and MOQs with suppliers to achieve target margins and monitor and clearly communicate any changes in prices.
• Attend seasonal range review meetings, ensuring product, pricing, and supplier insights are available for design and merchandising.
• Contribute to sustainability initiatives aligned with Company goals.
• Maintain accurate records in ERP and PLM systems, including style setup, item attributes, preferential origin, product risk assessment, shipping and labelling requirements, BOMs, and SAP records (Open PO & GRNI).
• Organise and attend supplier trips for design fittings, with clear objectives.
• Provide comprehensive handover to the production team, flagging any risks that may affect bulk production.
• Support the Product Development Manager with additional tasks as required.

Role Requirements

• Strong verbal and written communication in English and Italian.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in Product Development, with a strong background in multi-category product.
• Strong technical knowledge: understanding garment fitting and construction, especially relating to finishing and technical construction of tailoring and premium garments, with a deep understanding of high-end craftsmanship.
• Confident in building relationships with suppliers, with excellent communication skills. Ability to source, negotiate and manage relationships.
• Proficiency using different systems including Microsoft Office, PLM and ERP.
• Understanding sustainability and ethical compliance, and driven to meet targets.
• Accomplished at pricing negotiation, understanding costings and working within a budget.

Rewards

• A competitive salary from £30,000.
• 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays, increasing to 6 weeks with service.
• Generous clothing allowance.
• Significant staff discount.
• Life insurance.
• Contributory pension and salary exchange scheme.
• Personal development grant.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Birthday day off.
• Volunteering day off.

We actively implement blind recruitment practices to eliminate bias and ensure a fair evaluation of candidates based on their skills, experience, and qualifications. We believe in creating a level playing field for all applicants, and our initiatives reflect our dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Applications will be considered as they are received. Candidates will be shortlisted based on how their skills and experience match our requirements as set out above.