Apparel Technical Manager

Join to apply for the Apparel Technical Manager role at Equip Outdoor Technologies in Alfreton, Derbyshire. Equip Outdoor Technologies specialises in the design and marketing of technical outdoor clothing and equipment under its leading brands Rab and Lowe Alpine. Our experienced and enthusiastic team develops innovative designs, manufactured to the highest standard and brought to market throughout the world. Position Great opportunity to join our team as Apparel Technical Manager You will be responsible for ensuring the technical integrity, quality and fit of all apparel from SMS handover through production. The role will oversee the development of technical specifications, manage sample approvals and ensure compliance with brand standards and manufacturing capabilities. Acting as the technical authority, you will collaborate with design, product development and buying teams to deliver innovative, cost‑effective and high‑quality garments that meet performance and aesthetic requirements. This role also involves planning and allocating technical resources, optimising team capacity throughout the season and ensuring timely delivery of information and production. You will be responsible for all activities relating to apparel vendor resourcing, counter sampling and costing. Key Responsibilities Manage style handover process from product development to enable the GT team to create style product specifications, ensuring accuracy of all technical requirements – issue to supplier Manage GT critical path and workflow Receive buying information, interpret and plan technical team workload, ensure outputs are scheduled in line with the buying calendar, status updated and maintained on seasonal tracker Manage the size approval process, attending fit meetings and ensuring brand integrity Manage bulk trim approval – trim, thread, embroidery, print and maintain trim database Manage pre‑production approval process with sound decision‑making skills Create SMS specifications for all carry‑over styles/new colours and issue to suppliers Daily coordination with suppliers to progress product through to production; providing technical support and ensuring quality standards are maintained Update & translate wash care information Garment durability testing and compliance Carry out AQL and QC inspections – investigate, risk assess and resolve QC issues Update systems for "in‑season" updates/changes/fabrics on carry‑over styles and communicate this to relevant departments including product compliance Own product pre‑production process Customer returns – analysis/actions Fit/block development and maintenance Identify and implement opportunities to reduce carbon footprint Management, development, mentoring and support of the team Provide training and technical support for the technical team Overseas travel / QC inspection trips to vendors (as and when needed) Requirements Essential In‑depth knowledge of all aspects of product construction with hands‑on experience Previous experience working with overseas factories Full understanding of garment specification (building specs, adjusting, grading) Full understanding of QC process & procedures (AQL inspections and reporting) Strong knowledge & understanding of pattern making, fitting and grading process Experience of reviewing test reports and good understanding of performance standards Previous management experience Excellent planning and organisational skills to manage the pre‑production approval process with team and suppliers in line with the buying calendar Creative thinking to industrialise and improve product quality & cost through construction Experience of managing and developing teams Excellent communication skills at all levels Highly enthusiastic, with a "can‑do" attitude Very high attention to detail with the ability to accept and meet critical deadlines Resourcefulness and resilience Desirable Degree or equivalent in garment technology, fashion or textiles engineering Previous experience of outdoor‑wear and similar sector/industry Experience working for a brand or retailer Strong IT skills (Microsoft Office) A passion for the outdoors and a real understanding of the brands and the needs of outdoor users Other Information Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience Contributory company pension scheme, subject to qualifying conditions Discretionary profit share bonus scheme Life Assurance scheme Employee Benefits Platform Employee Wellbeing Programme Free, unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning training resources Great staff discounts on our Rab and Lowe Alpine products Reciprocal trade discounts on climbing, bikes, camping, sailing and running equipment Casual dress code Modern facilities with free on‑site parking and we are proud to be a climate neutral company Closing date for applications is 31 January 2026 For general enquiries please contact: recruitment@equipuk.com Strictly No Agencies please Our people are part of one team that is geared to achieving success for the company, and we are strongly committed to inclusivity, promoting equality and celebrating diversity among our staff. We are looking for people who are passionate about and can help live our values of Synergy, Ingenuity, Ambition, Determination and Integrity. #J-18808-Ljbffr