Project Manager with Design and Garment Tech

About us Bridge & Stitch is a small, innovative UK based Project Management company offering design and project management support across the clothing industry. We are passionate about supplying a first-class service, advising clients on what is suitable within their budget, ensuring products meet the client’s initial brief, that considers environmental impact and provide a complete management service. We have a comprehensive range of services including design development, tech pack creation, pattern cutting and grading, sourcing fabrics, trims and embellishments, packaging, and over-seeing sampling and production, usually with one of our UK based production partners. We offer overseas production but with a focus on Made in the UK where possible. With national and international clients, we provide solutions for well-funded start-ups, companies looking for brand extension and established small-medium clothing brands.

The Role This is a 9-month maternity contract with the possibility of a permanent position at the end of the contract. We are looking for an "all-rounder" - someone who is experienced as an Account Manager / Project Manager with Design and Garment Technologist experience who is comfortable in all aspects of product development from design to production, to join our team. The individual must be passionate about quality product, customer service, numeracy, process and have a keen eye for detail. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small company, for a candidate who is self-motivated, independent, flexible, reliable and trustworthy. The ideal candidate will be able to adapt easily to change, work under their own initiative, be comfortable under pressure, proactive, able to identify client needs, confident in offering advice on client projects, a good communicator and experienced in dealing with suppliers and factories ensuring the timely delivery of projects. Start-ups and small businesses often lack knowledge and understanding with tight budgets and unrealistic expectations! Production orders are usually low quantities with MOQ starting at 50 units per style per colour. You need to be a problem solver with a calm approach, able to educate and hand-hold clients through the process and ensure that projects keep moving to meet deadlines. It requires a careful balancing act between all stakeholders that offers challenge and reward. At the heart of this company are values of sustainability, responsibility and making a difference. We are focused on raising awareness of the impact we are having on our planet and educating customers to produce eco-friendly clothing, whilst making it affordable and accessible to all. We believe this would be an ideal role for a strong professional who shares our values and wants to help a small company grow creatively. This role will see you involved in all aspects of the supply chain, giving you full autonomy of your projects from start to finish. You will report directly into the CEO, so you will have a lot of ownership, responsibility, and impact from day one.

Responsibilities Developing tech packs based on client briefs The creation of size charts and grading rules with a sound knowledge of garment construction. Managing multiple client accounts building and maintaining strong long-lasting client relationships. Sourcing fabrics, trims and embellishments, knowledgeable in fabric properties, print and embroidery options. Sourcing appropriate factories, checking certifications, audits etc to confirm suitability for our clients. Quality checking samples and production, fitting samples and instructing the pattern cutter on fit changes. Communicating effectively with factories and other suppliers both in the UK and abroad. Creating critical paths to ensure projects stay on track and meet deadlines, co-ordinating with colleagues and suppliers to complete the work within the required timeframe. Handling delays effectively and professionally. Competent in Microsoft Excel with excellent numeracy and organisational skills. Visit factories, suppliers, trade shows within the UK or abroad, when necessary. Work with Xero accounting software to raise quotations and purchase orders as required.

About You Individual Skills A proven track record in project management, in the fashion and textiles industry. Self-motivated with a natural urgency to complete projects within a realistic timeframe. Works effectively on their own either from home or in the office, but is also a team player. Problem solver who enjoys change, is easily adaptable and thinks outside of the box. Works well under pressure and thrives on meeting and exceeding deadlines. Proven ability to manage multiple projects and relationships simultaneously while paying strict attention to detail. Strong verbal and written skills, building and maintaining strong relationships. A people person. Excellent time management and negotiation skills. Excellent Microsoft Excel skills, confident with maths with an understanding of calculating usages and quantities of materials for sampling and production. Confident in garment tech, with the ability to create sizing charts, do grading increments, measure garments, complete wash tests and calculate shrinkage. Experience in fit sessions and communicating adjustments to the pattern cutter. A strong knowledge of garment construction, fabric qualities and a wide knowledge of trims and embellishments. Adobe Illustrator and tech pack creation skills are a strong advantage but will consider those without this skill Experience of the UK fashion industry is a bonus.

Experience Prior Account Manager / Project Management experience in the fashion and textiles industry, 5 years minimum is preferable. Commitment 3 or 4 days a week to be negotiated. Minimum contract of 15 - 20 hours per week to be negotiated, however it is expected that working hours are likely to average around 25 – 30 hours per week, depending on the demands of your projects. Ideally, you will own a laptop already to allow for flexible working locations.

Salary: £16.50 - £17.50 per hour, depending on experience. Negotiable. Company Benefits: Competitive Salary Flexible hours to suit you Strong emphasis on work / life balance Hybrid working opportunities (expectation to be in the office on average 2-3 days a week depending on the needs of the business). Dog friendly office