Head of Garment Technology

ARNE is an apparel and footwear brand/retailer based in Birchwood Park near Warrington, UK. We design and develop our products in the UK, manufacture in the near & far east and then ship directly to our customers, via ARNEclo.com. We have recently branched out and are now also available via Selfridges both in store and online.

We have ambitious objectives over the next decade with the team believing all targets are achievable through new product category launches in shoes and womenswear alongside the creation of paid media, CRM activity and further international growth to amplify the great product / brand assets we have already created.

Reporting to our Chief Commercial Officer, you'll be responsible for leading our technical team in delivering exceptional product quality, fit, and performance. This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong technical background in garment construction, materials, and manufacturing processes. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring our products meet the highest standards while driving innovation and efficiency.

So if you are creative with a keen eye for detail, have a passion for the fashion industry and want to join us on our exciting journey please apply today!

Requirements

• Lead the Garment Technology team, ensuring the highest standards of fit, quality, and construction across all product categories
• Oversee the garment development process, from initial concept through to final production, ensuring timelines and specifications are met
• Oversee the fit and approval process, working closely with Designers and Suppliers to achieve best-in-class product execution
• Establish and maintain clear technical standards, ensuring consistency in sizing and fit across product categories
• Work collaboratively with suppliers and factories to ensure efficient production methods, cost-effectiveness, and quality assurance
• Drive continuous improvement in garment performance, sustainability, and compliance with industry standards and regulations
• Manage and mentor a team of garment technologists, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence
• Review and analyse returns data and customer feedback, utilising insights to drive improvements in product quality and sizing
• Analyse and resolve technical challenges, ensuring proactive problem-solving and risk mitigation
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers to facilitate effective communication and resolve issues as they arise
• Keep up to date with industry trends, new technologies, and innovations in fabric and garment construction
• Oversee product testing processes to guarantee durability, safety, and compliance with required standards
• Any other ad hoc duties as required

Essential Experience And Skills

• Significant experience in a senior garment technology role within the fashion, apparel, or retail industry
• Expert knowledge of garment construction, pattern cutting, grading, and fit development
• Strong understanding of raw materials, fabric testing, and garment performance requirements
• Experience working with global supply chains, manufacturers, and production processes
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Strong communication and negotiation skills to liaise effectively with internal teams and external suppliers
• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives and compliance requirements in the fashion industry
• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills
• Passion for fashion and a commitment to delivering high-quality products

Benefits

• We are proud to be recognised as a Medium sized Sunday Times Best Place to Work for 2024
• 32 Days Holiday (including Bank Holidays) + your Birthday off
• Holidays increasing up to 36 days with service
• Option to buy/sell holidays
• Generous staff discount
• Annual and quarterly bonus schemes based on company performance
• Private Healthcare including Dental & Optical Plans after probation
• Health Cash Plan from day one
• Life assurance paying 5x annual salary from day one
• Discounted marketplace with money off/cash back from 100's of places
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Tech Scheme

ARNE are an equal opportunities employer. We believe that diverse people bring different skills and are committed to ensuring our business support the needs of potential colleagues from Ethnic Minority backgrounds and colleagues who may be disabled or neurodiverse. We are committed to creating a great place to work through diversity and inclusivity and we strongly encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds to join our growing team.