PRODUCT DEVELOPER (HOMEWARE BEDDING )

TN United Kingdom; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking company seeks a Product Developer specializing in home textiles to innovate and expand product offerings. This role involves sourcing from suppliers in China and Pakistan, collaborating with design teams, and prioritizing sustainability in product development. Join an established industry player with over a century of experience, where your contributions will shape the future of home furnishings. If you have a passion for homeware and a knack for innovative design, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Pension with 3% employer contribution

Death in Service Life Assurance

Employee Assistance Program

Product discounts

Qualifications

• Experience with suppliers in China and Pakistan is essential.
• Background in homeware/textiles manufacturing is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative product ranges in collaboration with design teams.
• Manage product development from brief to packaging.

Skills

Supplier Management (China and Pakistan)

Homeware/Textiles Manufacturing

Product Development

Communication Skills

Organizational Ability

Photoshop

Illustrator

Job description

PRODUCT DEVELOPER (BUYING) (HOME TEXTILES/ BEDDING)

Location: Manchester, United Kingdom

Salary: £35,000

Company Overview:

Our client is a successful home textiles company with over 100 years of experience, building strong relationships with leading UK home furnishing retailers, independents, mail order, and e-commerce companies. They focus on innovative, high-quality products in readymade curtains, bedding, cushions, accessories, and kitchen textiles.

Job Overview:

As a Product Developer, you will source and develop new products for the Home Furnishings/Kitchen category from suppliers in China and Pakistan, for both branded and own-label ranges, focusing on extending current ranges and sourcing new categories that complement existing kitchen ranges.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Design and Commercial teams to develop a strong, innovative product range aligned with the brand.
• Brief in new products to agents in China and Pakistan for sourcing new suppliers.
• Prioritize sustainability in sourcing decisions and explore innovative sustainable product options.
• Research and provide product information, visuals, and work with suppliers on samples and pricing.

Key Accounts:

• Develop technical specifications and manage the product development process from brief to packaging.
• Work closely with Key Account Managers and customers to understand their needs and deliver on design, price, and deadlines.
• Source innovative, commercially viable products internationally and negotiate with factories.

General Responsibilities:

• Prepare technical specifications and liaise with the technical team to meet customer requirements.
• Coordinate with customers, team members, and suppliers daily.

Skills and Experience:

• Experience working with suppliers in China and Pakistan.
• Background working with high street retailers and product/design teams.
• Homeware/textiles manufacturing experience, especially in homeware.
• Knowledge of the homeware retail and eCommerce marketplace.
• Excellent communication skills, organizational ability, and proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator.

Benefits:

• Salary aligned with experience
• Pension with 3% employer contribution
• Death in Service Life Assurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Product discounts

Reporting To: Design Director

Working Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Monday to Thursday, 4:00 pm Friday