Product Developer Sweater

Company Description

Established in 1978 in the North of France, KIABI revolutionized off-the-peg fashion with the introduction of low-cost fashion for the whole family, a concept which had never been seen before. With a network of over 505 shops across the world, KIABI boasts a turnover of 2 billion euros (2019) and 2.4% growth. As a symbol of simplicity, universality and joie de vivre, KIABI proposes ranges that are created in France by an in-house team of 56 fashion designers. KIABI is France’s leading prêt-à-porter retailer with over 10,000 employees of 60 different nationalities. Kiabi is aware of the environmental footprint of its activity and is reaffirming its Social and Environmental Responsibility via the KIABI HUMAN programme, by developing ranges of ecologically designed products and a transparent supply chain, and training its staff and stakeholders in the human and environmental impact of its business. The company encourages the personal development of employees in their place of work and the promotion of ethical local initiatives.

Kiabi International Supply Service Ltd, Dhaka Liaison Office is the sourcing Country of the group . Established its independent working since 2013.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

Product

• Focus on product development for sweater. Other Ready-to-Wear categories might be required.
• Develop product for kids, baby, men and ladies.
• Coordination of product prototyping process from initial concept to final sampling.
• Close collaboration with Design, Procurement, Sourcing, Garment Technicians, Fabric teams, and Manufacturing to effectively achieve the expected product results.
• Lead on time delivery and development according to critical dates and product specification.
• Identifies and addresses key issues and challenges in construction/manufacturing and plans accordingly to deliver the right and feasible product.
• Approve the look of final samples in alignment with the needs and requirements of Collection & Design teams.
• Monitors and communicates progress and challenges throughout the product development process to meet product integrity requirements.

Innovation & Sustainability

• Strong attention to sustainability and innovation techniques and materials in the industry.
• The Product Developer is aware of market trends, team goals, new technology and consumer needs throughout the development process.
• It is required to be proficient in the use of AI, 3D and other digital innovations and tools to drive easier and more efficient development.

Support to local teams & vendor design capabilities

• Support fabric and merchandising teams with strong trend knowledge and product sensibility to offer newness and the right materials & products.
• Support to vendors’ creative teams for a better understanding of brand needs & identity.
• Support local teams in sourcing new suppliers and evaluate their creative capabilities.
• The role is a senior position reporting to the Global Design and Product Development manager based in Hong Kong.

Qualifications

Key Requirements & Competences

• Strong fashion sense and trend awareness.
• Product and detail oriented.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion or Textile areas.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role working for international retailers and brands.
• Demonstrated project management and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent time and planning management.
• Entrepreneurship values. Independent and capable to establish priorities and adapt to processes with a versatile personality and attitude. Self-motivated.
• Strong team player and communication skills. Capable to interact with varied audiences.
• Curious and self-directed, always looking for new opportunities for the product and the customer.
• Use of AI for creative industries.
• Highly analytical and creative thinking.
• Proficient in Adobe & Office Suites.

Additional Information

RELEVANT COMPETENCES

• Soft Skills:

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills

• Computer literate

• Good command of English

• Strong task-oriented style

• Be flexible

• A team player