Burberry is an iconic British brand synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship. Based in London under the direction of CEO Angela Ahrendts and CCO Christopher Bailey, the brand has a global reputation for pioneering design and fabrics. 

Job Description:

Manage the sourcing and design development for Womens LONDON Collection. Work in partnership with Designers and Fabric Team to deliver the Design brief and to develop new textile ideas whilst maintaining and revitalising existing continuity lines to meet requirements. 

Responsibilities: 

• Research and development of new fabric concepts and technologies
• Good knowledge of specialist Fabric Suppliers to ensure we have the right developments, creativity, the IP Protection, consistency and the right level in terms of quality and price.
• Presentations of new ideas, finishes, etc to Directors, Designers and Merchandisers.
• In conjunction with the Fabric team, Designers and PD, agree the Fabric development calendar for each season and be accountable for delivering key actions within the fabric development critical path
• Manage fabric developments to ensure commercial and technical requirements are achieved and support the Design and pricing strategies.
• Develop effective working relationships with mills, vendors and internal departments
• Work in partnership with the Design and Product Development teams to ensure correct quantities are ordered and confirmed for sampling.
• Accountable for tracking developments, lab dips etc to ensure deliveries are on time
• Manage the direct delivery process
• Maintain pricing and lead-time information and accurate fabric data.

Desired Skills & Experience:

The ideal candidate will have:  

Qualifications: 

• Effective communication skills
• Adaptable to meet the ever changing demands of the business
• Enjoys working in a highly pressurised environment
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Passionate about fabric design and development
• Strong Computer skills
• Italian speaking an advantage

Experience:

• Good knowledge of Mills for sourcing and developing high quality fabrics of all types as required for Burberry menswear.
• Design/ Textile Degree (preferable) and technical Fabric construction and QA knowledge.
• Several years experience working for a premium brand designers.
• Knowledge of current market and trends and competitors products.
• Experience of printing, finishing and washing techniques an advantage.
• Effective relationship management with design and product development teams