Product Development Specialist Outerwear in Düsseldorf bei C&A

The future looks like you

We build on traditions as long as they don´t stop us from growing. Therefore, we continuously reflect our actions and strive for improvement. This is the only way we can live up to our own standards to reinvent the fashion business in a sustainable way.

In our Head offices in Düsseldorf and Brussels we develop new trends whilst focusing on sustainability along the value chain of our products.

Our Product Development and Sourcing department are looking for a Product Development Specialist to join them in the Outwear category team to help us develop new trends while focusing on sustainability along the value chain of our products.

Your responsibilities

• Contribute to the product development process by considering design, commercial aspects, and technical issues, with a focus on maintaining quality and adhering to the desired look and feel
• Assist in creating and adhering to a critical path calendar for each quarter, specifically for new product innovations
• Collaborate with the design team to make adjustments in styling and fabrication details, aiming to align them with cost, functionality, and factory requirements, particularly during the sketch and proto/fit sample phases
• Support design briefings and provide feedback on product improvement and feasibility. Participate in efforts to meet cost targets and engage in supplier cost price negotiations. Also, assist in preparing and maintaining seasonal component lists and reports.
• Collaborate with Raw Materials Suppliers to explore new fabrications and contribute to sourcing decisions. Factors to consider include supplier capabilities, production volume, techniques, fabrications, and cost
• Maintain regular communication with garment and component suppliers for research and development purposes. Assist in tracking the approval process for all necessary material, trim, and artwork submissions
• Actively participate in relevant trade shows and stay informed about current market trends

What you bring

• An interest in becoming a product developer and learning about the full product development lifecycle at C&A
• Ideally a university degree in Textile Engineering, Product Development or similar
• Some work experience in a similar field would be desirable eg; sourcing, buying, product development or design
• Some knowledge of costing, fitting, grading, garment / fabric construction and the production process
• Knowledge of Product-Lifecycle-Management (PLM) systems would be advantageous but not essential
• Detail oriented with strong written and oral communication, organizational and analytical skills
• Fluent in English

What we offer

• An exciting job in an international and inspirational working environment
• In-depth induction into your new role
• A positive working atmosphere with an open feedback culture

C&A fosters equal opportunity for people of all backgrounds and identities. We are led by a gender-balanced board committed to build a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone can become their best self.

We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, religion or belief, parental and family status, or any other protected characteristic. We welcome applications from women, men and non-binary candidates of all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds. We encourage people belonging to underrepresented groups to apply.