Product Developer

BoF Careers; Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Self-Portrait in London is seeking a passionate Product Developer to bring design concepts to life, from concept through bulk production, ensuring quality and brand integrity.

You will collaborate with design, technical, and sourcing teams, manage tech packs and BOMs, and attend fittings to confirm materials, trims and colours, while maintaining strong supplier relationships and a focus on innovation.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in product development for luxury/contemporary womenswear.
• Strong knowledge of fabrics, garment construction, prints and embellishments.
• Experience with tech packs, BOMs and fit sessions.
• Proficiency with PLM software; PLM/Zedonk knowledge preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end product development from concept to final approvals.
• Lead development from range plan handover to selling samples.
• Manage cost-effective construction without compromising design or quality.
• Translate design concepts into technical details for manufacturing.
• Attend fittings and approve materials, trims and colours with factory.
• Coordinate with suppliers and Self-Portrait HK on seasonal collections.
• Launch and manage BOMs and tech packs with manufacturers.
• Support sales with product information and post-sample changes.

Skills

Product development

Luxury womenswear

Fabric knowledge

Tech packs & BOMs

Fittings coordination

Supplier management

PLM / Zedonk

Tools

PLM / Zedonk

Job description

Self-Portrait is seeking a passionate and skilled Product Developer to play a key role in bringing design concepts to life. You will collaborate closely with the design team throughout the development process, ensuring the accurate execution of the brand’s vision. This role requires a detail-oriented and proactive individual with a strong understanding of luxury/contemporary womenswear, fabrics, and garment construction. As Product Developer, you will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of each style from initial concept to bulk production, supporting innovation and ensuring exceptional quality and efficiency. Please note that this role is full-time in our Central London office.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from initial style launch to final approvals
• Lead and execute the development of styles from range plan handover through to selling samples, ensuring alignment with the critical path
• Ensure cost-effective construction without compromising design vision or quality standards.
• Partner closely with design, technical, and sourcing teams, translating design concepts into technical details for manufacturing.
• Attend initial and press fittings each season to confirm materials, trims, and colours with the design team and make adjustments with the factory where needed.
• Coordinate with suppliers and the Self-Portrait HK office on seasonal and exclusive collections, maintaining open lines of communication across all stages
• Innovate in garment finishing and support fabric and trim sourcing.
• Approve lab dips, trims, and fabrics for bulk production, ensuring they meet the brand’s high standards.
• Launch and manage BOMs and tech packs, coordinating with manufacturers for accurate and timely sample production.
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers and manufacturing partners, supporting them in understanding and delivering on Self-Portrait’s standards.
• Support the sales team with relevant product information, assisting in any post-sample changes.

Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience within a product development role, ideally within a luxury/contemporary womenswear brand.
• In-depth knowledge of fabrics, garment construction, print, and embellishment techniques.
• Demonstrated experience working with tech packs, BOMs, and attending fit sessions.
• Familiarity with multi-product category development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Solution-oriented and resilient under pressure, with good negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with PLM / Zedonk is preferred.
• Some knowledge of Kidswear could be beneficial (not essential)
• Highly organised, tenacious, and detail-focused, with a dedication to quality and innovation.
• Passionate about luxury fashion and committed to driving Self-Portrait’s product excellence.
• Willingness to travel as required.