Garment Technologist - Footwear

At NEXT Wholly Owned Brands, we’re a collective of London-based fashion and lifestyle brands. From our beginnings with Lipsy in 1998, to becoming part of the UK’s largest fashion retailer, NEXT, in 2008 we’ve evolved into a group of bold, design-led brands, each with its unique identity.

At the heart of our business is a passionate team driven by creativity, innovation, and a shared ambition to deliver exceptional results. We foster a culture where individuality is celebrated, curiosity is encouraged, and challenging the status quo is part of how we grow.

Role Purpose

The Garment Technologist is the owner of technical development across Footwear. Working closely with Buying and Design teams, this role proactively manages quality assurance, on-time deliveries, and manufacturing risks. You will apply a deep understanding of product construction, material capabilities, and performance to achieve high-quality products that maintain brand integrity.

Role Responsibilities

Technical Development & Quality Assurance

• Develop and drive fit sessions to ensure accuracy of information and product compliance with brand standards.
• Approve fabric tests and advise factories on necessary solutions.
• Drive and facilitate sealing procedures within the team.
• Drive adequate wearer trial programmes to ensure product performance.
• Differentiate between good and bad product comparisons by benchmarking against competition and industry innovation.
• Develop innovative ideas to ensure product is fit for purpose and meets all Legal and Health & Safety standards.

Process & Policy Management

• Challenge and influence technical policies and processes to ensure they align with brand compliance.
• Identify improvements for policies, processes, and product/component reports.
• Drive and influence legislation and best practice policies in CSR, relating them back to the brand vision.
• Ensure standards and specifications are kept up to date and effectively communicated internally and externally.

Supplier & Stakeholder Partnering

• Develop relationships to create strategic partnerships that support the brand.
• Recognise sourcing opportunities with suppliers and ensure they understand brand technical standards and procedures.
• Work closely with Buying and Design to progress effective product development and drive quality assurance.
• Manage key dates and guidelines to ensure the critical path is maintained, including leading weekly meetings with Buying and Merchandising teams.

Technical Requirements

• Experienced Garment Technologist with Footwear experience in a similar role.
• Experience dealing with a broad supply base, including overseas suppliers.
• Proficient in Excel and comfortable using various internal business systems.
• Excellent communication in written and verbal correspondence.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with a professional and approachable manner.
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Highly adaptable and able to thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment.

What we can do for you…

• 25% off a huge selection of Next, Next Wholly Owned Brands, GAP and Victoria's Secret products & 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
• Hot deals and exclusive offers from over 3,500 retailers through Perks At Work
• We recognise hard work with our company performance-based bonus
• Life Assurance
• Join our Next Sharesave Scheme
• Digital GP Service for help at home
• Lesson the impact with our Annual Travel Card Loan
• Never miss a package and with Direct to Desk delivery
• Bag a bargain at our sample sales
• Hybrid & flexible working across the business to support your work-life balance
• Learn, develop and grow with our personal development plans
• Enjoy more time with friends and family with Early Bank Holiday finishes
• Join in the fun with our year-round office events

Diversity & Inclusion

We recognise that our differences are what make us who we are. We want people to want to work for us and be their true selves. We are dedicated to attracting and developing a talent team, and recognise that all unique backgrounds and experiences contribute to our future success.

We want to create an inclusive and inspiring environment where individuals feel valued and respected, and where people can achieve their full potential and be their very best, whoever they are.

Wellbeing

We believe that wellbeing is having the opportunity to achieve your full potential, cope with day to day pressures, be productive and thrive in all aspects of your life. We encourage a culture that promotes and enables us all to achieve positive wellbeing, by focusing on mental, physical and financial health.

Benefits