We are currently recruiting for a Fabric Technologist to join our Womenswear Non-Clothing Technical Team. Specialising in
lingerie & sportswear, this role is essential to the delivery of quality garments and achieving best quality and consistency across the various departments.
The Role...
• Complete all systems and requests daily - including NIS, buyers range plan, progress, warehouse queries and customer services.
• Manage suppliers to deliver best quality fabrics, ensure the supply base is set up for successful bulk production and on-time delivery.
• Actively take ownership of fabric quality and delivery. Manage and rectify failures, ensure high quality standards are met and maintained.
• Work with suppliers on fabric developments and product innovation to deliver a stream of newness.
• Encourage a right-first-time approach, challenge suppliers to improve performance to deliver quality and consistency.
• Engage in product risk assessment, highlight areas of concern and advise... fabric technical solutions and product improvements.
• Work with the Sustainability & Compliance team to drive business sustainability targets and eliminate the risk of hazardous substances in the manufacturing process.

About You...
• Experience in a similar role with in depth technical knowledge of a broad range of fabric types including warp/weft knits and wovens across a range of fibre types (including stretch fabrics).
• A technical understanding of different components used across a range of product categories.
• A comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of fabric manufacturing including dyeing/finishing, different printing techniques and wash processes.
• Technical knowledge gained preferably within a supplier or fast paced retail environment.
• Able to work at pace, whilst embracing change in a busy environment.
• Able to collaborate well with the wider team, work across product categories, mentoring and coaching to deliver fabric knowledge.
• A well organised, flexible team player, with a positive attitude and an agile approach within the technical team.
• Confident and clear communication skills, both verbal and written, to build strong relationships with product teams and external suppliers.

About Us
You know Next, but did you know we're a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We're the UK's 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we're the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it's now possible to buy on-line from over 70 countries around the world! So we've gone global!
About some of our Benefits
• 25% off a huge selection of Next, Lipsy & Victoria's Secret products
• Company performance based bonus
• Sharesave scheme
• On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
• 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
• Early VIP access to sale stock
• Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
• Subsidised restaurant, coffee shop and juice bar
• Access a 24/7 digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
• Free on-site parking
Leicester UK

Salary Criteria