Head of Product Development

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced head of product development to join a fast-paced, internationally recognised fashion retailer, based in their China operation.

This is a senior leadership role for a commercially driven product development professional who understands the pace, creativity and demands of the fast fashion industry. Working at the heart of the supply chain, you will lead product development from initial concept through to production-ready product, ensuring speed to market, quality, cost competitiveness and outstanding execution.

The role would suit a UK or European fashion professional looking to take their career to an international level, offering the opportunity to live and work in China while playing a key role in shaping and delivering a global product strategy.

The role:

• Lead and develop the product development function across womenswear fashion
• Drive the end-to-end product development process, from concept and design brief through sampling, fit approval and bulk production handover.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, factories and manufacturing partners across China and the wider Far East.
• Drive speed to market, ensuring critical paths, development calendars and deadlines are consistently achieved.
• Work closely with Design, Buying, Merchandising, Technical and Sourcing teams across the UK/EU and Asia.
• Identify opportunities to improve product quality, value engineering, cost efficiencies and overall product performance.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing product development team.
• Monitor market trends, manufacturing capabilities and emerging innovations to maintain a competitive product offer.

The candidate:

• Significant experience in a senior product development role within womenswear fashion.
• A strong understanding of the UK and/or European fashion retail market.
• Extensive experience working with China-based suppliers and factories.
• A proven track record of delivering products at pace without compromising on quality or commercial objectives.
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and developing teams.
• Excellent negotiation, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A hands-on, solutions-focused approach and the resilience to thrive in a high-pressure, fast-moving environment.

In return there is a competitive expat package, including net salary, accommodation and relocation over. You will also be part of a thriving business, with opportunities to continue to develop and evolve your career.