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The Garment / Product Tech department at River Island supports the Buying and Design teams to ensure product fit and quality is in line with our brand strategy and values and is compliant in all markets/channels in which we trade. This is achieved through strong Buying team, Design team and Supplier relations. A strong commercial awareness and application is essential. The Technologist is recognised by peers, buying and design teams and suppliers as a knowledgeable Technical resource who leads the achievement of established standards of fit, quality and performance for the department/s, in line with the critical path and brand priorities; is responsible for ensuring the product is fit for purpose and aligned with brand objectives.
Job Responsibility:
May be required to manage a junior member of the team
Leads the technical approval process on their department/s
Identifies opportunities or risk which may lead to cross functional collaboration/initiatives
Works with suppliers and buying teams to establish opportunities for improvements
Leads the product development and approval process of the department to ensure delivery is compliant to all RI standards
Responsible for ensuring River Island ways of working are followed by buyers, designers and suppliers for all technical processes
Responsible for risk assessment of both production and safety
Responsible for approval of test reports and Certificates of Compliance
Develops blocks and key shapes in collaboration with Buyer/Designer
Contributes to the development and maintenance of the relevant grading tables
Regularly reviews quality and fit of delivered product
Maintain a knowledge of current and changing global legislation
Contribute to setting, reviewing and communicating standards and manuals
Regular communication with suppliers
Conduct regular reviews of supplier performance
Feeds into the dept supplier strategy
Develop and empower suppliers to take accountability
Support the Sustainability team in achieving their objectives
Support the ethical team in achieving their objectives
Requirements:
Previous experience as a Technologist in a Retail or Manufacturing Technical environment
Good understanding of sizing, pattern making and grading
Good relevant knowledge of fabric/materials/components
Previous experience demonstrating a good knowledge and understanding (relevant to product area) of fit, manufacture, testing, compliance/legislation and other technical aspects
Good experience of working across multiple sourcing locations
Supplier management experience
Strong interest in product and the River Island brand
What we offer:
Generous 50% staff discount
Bargain staff shop on site
Discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more through the Retail Trust