UVU - SENIOR PRODUCT DEVELOPER (Full-Time, West London)
ABOUT UVU
UVU is rapidly transforming the running and sportswear scene, evolving from founder Adi Gillespie’s vision into a global phenomenon defined by the “graceful pursuit of a superior self.” In 2023, the brand made headlines with sell-out pop-ups in cities like Paris, London, and New York. Building on that momentum, 2024 has seen UVU’s reach expand even further, launching a global e-commerce website and hosting sell-out pop-up stores in London and Berlin. With sales accelerating worldwide, UVU continues to push boundaries in sport, style, and community.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Taking ownership of all products, Jersey & Technical from development to bulk production, both apparel and accessories, core and SMU ranges
- Work on full fabric, trim, packaging and labelling sourcing ensuring style properties are met
- Actively sourcing apparel, accessories and packaging suppliers, building supplier strategies
- Work closely and collaboratively with Design to launch and develop styles while maintaining correct TP information
- Be main contact for communication with both EU & FE suppliers, providing feedback on submissions, strike offs and samples at all levels to ensure all product is delivered at correct quality and time
- Create, amend and finalise spec docs and BOM’s to ensure all important information is mentioned and accurate
- Accurately measure samples and patterns, whilst ensuring all important POMs are listed on the specs and any measures out of tolerances are highlighted
- Fit and comment on all samples from proto, pre-production to shipment samples, ensuring block, construction and functionality meet UVU standard
- Plan, cost, process and approve fabric, trim and garment testing to an advised wash care information along with running wearer testing programs with UVU athletics
- Maintain up-to-date style information for each style on multiple brand trackers to present at weekly critical path meetings
- Organise and take ownership of critical path planning for both core and SMU collections while also planning and leading team stage gates and sign off meetings
- Identify potential delays or supply chain issues and implanting back up plans to mitigate risks
- Work with Operations on style costings to ensure target costs are hit end to end
- Review and find resolutions for returns and product issues with Operations and Customer Service
- Create and update standardisation documents including grading rules and testing and quality standards
- Knowledge and continued training in product and regulations to the UVU business
- Planning and attending supplier visits and team trips
- Manage, train and closely collaborate with Junior Product Developer
- Working in conjunction with Design, Operations and Content teams at all levels
- To undertake any other relevant duties of which the UVU Owners sees fit
What We’re Looking For
- Degree in Sportswear, Fashion, Product Development or a related field
- Proven industry experience within the product development sector or a similar role within the Sportwear industry,Menswear and Womenswear experience desired
- Passion for fashion and sports with a keen eye for detail with a technical background
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) & Microsoft Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) experience with 3D design software is a plus
- Strong understanding and ability to create and own Development and Production critical paths, from initial design to bulk production
- Strong knowledge and understanding of fabric, trims and garment construction in both Jersey & Sportwear
- Extensive knowledge and experience in fitting, patterns and grading – 3D pattern knowledge is a plus
- Experience and ability to plan and action wearer trails as well as request, process and approve fabric testing
- Excellent attention to detail and organisation with a willingness to learn is key
- Ability to work collaboratively within a fast-paced environment and take direction from UVU Owners
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with supplier and factories with ability to be key point of contact and willingness to travel
- Ability to work effectively under pressure to tight deadlines, both collaboratively and independently
- Capacity to multi-task, prioritise workload and organise full PD department
- Determined attitude and passion for Product Development with a willingness to take on ownership of multiple disciplines
- A proactive and positive attitude, with an eagerness to contribute to UVU’s creative vision
Please apply with CV and cover letter to careers@colebuxton.com