About the role:

In a nutshell, the role is…

Leading and managing the teamWorking with the other Childrenswear Managers to develop and implement the strategy for the department Working collaboratively with all areas of the businessSpearheading the innovation of new fabrics, yarns and materials, to continually improve quality standards Providing the expertise to manage the fabric and product approval process, overseeing critical paths to ensure on time delivery and problem solving where required

Travel will be a key part of this role visiting trade shows, factories & suppliers

There is so much more to it though as this role spans all areas of Next and is all about collaboration: 

Buying, Merchandising and Design: Starting with strategy and the early stages of product development, driving innovation and setting the highest standards of quality 
Supply Base: Planning and strategy as well as supplier management and relationship development to ensure quality standards and compliance are met. 
Legislation and Sustainability: Providing expert fabric advice  to the teams, and working with Product legislation and sustainability teams to ensure that company goals are met.
International: Working with the International teams to ensure that Childrenswear product is developed to be compliant for the relevant international territories 
Warehouse: A close relationship with the Next warehouses is imperative, to ensure Next customers only receive the best quality products.  
COP: Working closely with the COP team to ensure we are using compliant suppliers, factories & mills
Customer Services: Resolution of fabric quality complaints and safety issues.

This is a people management role.  Working alongside the current Childrenswear Technology Manager, you will directly manage a strong team of 10 x G2 direct reports.  The current team has a wealth of knowledge and experience; your role will be to offer support, encourage development, inspire and empower them.  Recruitment and developing the next generation of technologists will also be vital over the next few years 

About you:

You’ll have extensive hands-on knowledge of complex supply chain and fabric manufacturing processes.  A strong technical background, and an understanding of sustainability targets and legal compliance for childrenswear is essential to ensure that products and fabrics are developed to meet Next’s high quality standards. You will have managed a team previously and need to demonstrate that you can inspire others, infuse energy, passion and optimism into their actions and behaviours in order to motivate.  

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