Product Manager

Portwest; Manchester; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

Portwest in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Product Manager (UK) to own a defined apparel product range from concept to delivery. You will drive growth through product development, balancing design innovation with commercial targets.

The role requires 5+ years in product management within safety or performance apparel, strong Adobe Illustrator skills, and a proven ability to work independently while delivering high-quality products on time.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in product management, apparel, or garment development.
• Degree in design, garment technology, textiles, or related discipline.
• Proven ability to work independently and deliver successful products.

Responsibilities

• Own a defined product range from concept to delivery throughout the lifecycle.
• Define and deliver KPIs for range growth and launches.
• Lead sample reviews; ensure accurate technical specs and production readiness.
• Maintain close communication with factories and supply chain partners to keep timelines.
• Partner with marketing, sales and design to align product strategy with brand needs.
• Conduct market, trend, and competitor research to shape future direction.
• Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality.
• Travel to factories, suppliers and trade shows to strengthen partnerships.

Skills

Product management

KPI driven

Analytical mindset

Commercial awareness

Strategic thinking

Communication

Negotiation

Organized

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in design, garment technology, textiles

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Job description

PORTWEST, a leading global manufacturer of safety wear, workwear and PPE is currently seeking applications for the position of Product Manager, UK on a permanent basis reporting to Head of Product. Founded in 1904, Portwest has become one of the fastest growing workwear companies in the world currently employing over 6,000 staff worldwide. With 1400 styles across more than 20 ranges, we design, manufacture and distribute market leading workwear, safety wear and PPE in fully owned production facilities.

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced Product Manager with 5+ years in the safety or performance apparel industry to take ownership of a defined product range. In this role, you manage a range of products, balancing design innovation with commercial targets. You will be responsible for driving growth through product development and product improvements, ensuring your products meet quality standards, align with market trends, and provide value to our customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of a defined product range, managing it through the entire lifecycle from concept to delivery.
• Define and deliver against clear KPIs for range growth and successful product launches
• Lead sample reviews, providing critical feedback and ensuring technical specifications are accurate and production ready.
• Maintain close communication with factories and supply chain partners, proactively problem-solving to keep timelines on track.
• Partner with marketing, sales, and design teams to align product strategy with brand direction and customer needs.
• Conduct and present market, trend, and competitor research to shape future product direction.
• Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or innovation.
• Travel as required to factories, suppliers, and trade shows to strengthen partnerships and stay ahead of industry trends.

Requirements

• 5+ years’ experience in product management, apparel, or garment development.
• Degree in design, garment technology, textiles, or a related discipline.
• Proven ability to work independently, with a track record of delivering successful products.
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and technical specification management.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong commercial awareness, with an analytical mindset and KPI-driven approach.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and resilient under pressure.
• A strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation.

Company Awards

• Great Place To Work 2024
• Private Irish Business of the year – Export Industry Awards 2025
• Silver Ecovadis Sustainability Rating 2025

Applicants must have a right to live and work in the relevant jurisdiction.

Portwest is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, civil status, veteran status, family status, disability status or membership of a minority group.