Technical Manager / Director

The Retail Partnership Ltd; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading supplier in the retail sector based in London is seeking a skilled technical leader to manage their garment technology team. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in apparel, including at least 5 years in management. Responsibilities include overseeing fit approvals, ensuring product quality, and improving technical processes. The role requires strong relationships with UK retailers and some travel for factory visits. Hybrid working options available.

Qualifications

• 10+ years' experience in a technical role within apparel (supplier and/or retail).
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a technical management role.
• Strong understanding of UK retailer requirements including fit and quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and develop the garment technology team.
• Oversee fit, sealing, and product approvals.
• Conduct risk assessments on construction and performance.
• Improve and streamline internal technical systems.
• Work closely with design and merchandising.

Skills

Technical leadership

Fit assessment

Quality compliance

Sustainable materials knowledge

IT competency

Job description

I am delighted to be recruiting for my client, one of the leading suppliers to major retailers and supermarkets in the UK. My client has a reputation for undisputed quality, outstanding compliance, and first-class design and production. This position will lead the technical team to ensure product quality, fit, and compliance across all customer accounts. The role will work closely with design, merchandising, and production teams, as well as UK and overseas offices and factories, to deliver commercially viable, well-executed products. Depending on experience, the role can be appointed at Manager or Director level. This role is based in my clients London office and does offer some hybrid working.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and develop the garment technology team
• Oversee fit, sealing, and product approvals in line with critical path timelines
• Conduct risk assessments on construction, fabrics, trims and performance
• Improve and streamline internal technical systems and processes
• Work closely with design and merchandising to support development and resolve technical issues
• Maintain strong relationships with customers and manage fit meetings and feedback
• Resolve production and quality issues in collaboration with overseas teams and factories
• Ensure all products meet customer standards, brand manuals and testing requirements
• Travel to factories overseas when required to review capabilities and support production

Person Specification

• 10+ years' experience in a technical role within apparel (supplier and/or retail)
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a technical management role
• Experience working with major UK retailers and a strong understanding of their requirements, including fit, seal processes, and in-store quality expectations
• Experience with sustainable products and materials (desirable)
• Ability to work under pressure to meet critical path deadlines
• Highly competent IT skills
• To be considered for this role, you must have the right to work in the UK, and or be based in the UK and have experience working with the UK market.