Careers in Product Development
Product development is where creative ideas become commercially viable products, bringing them from initial concept through to a finished product ready for production. It's a varied, collaborative career combining creativity, product knowledge, commercial awareness and attention to detail.
Product Development Job Description
Product development professionals are responsible for taking a product from an initial idea or brief through to a finished product that is ready for production. In fashion, this involves working closely with designers, buyers, merchandisers, garment technologists and suppliers to develop products that meet the required aesthetic, quality, cost and commercial objectives.
The role can vary depending on the organisation. Some product developers are involved from the earliest stages of concept and design, while others focus more heavily on sourcing, sampling, supplier management and preparing products for production.
Product development professionals need a strong understanding of their product area and the ability to balance creative ideas with practical and commercial considerations.
Did You Know?
A product can go through numerous stages of development before it reaches the customer. Product developers help manage this journey, working through concepts, materials, samples, costs and amendments to ensure the final product delivers on the original brief.
A Product Development Professional’s Core Responsibilities
Product Development
Taking products from initial concepts and briefs through to approved samples and final production, ensuring they meet the required design and commercial objectives.
Sampling & Prototypes
Coordinating the development of samples and prototypes, reviewing products and working with designers and suppliers to make amendments where required.
Supplier Collaboration
Working closely with suppliers and manufacturers to develop products, source materials and ensure products can be produced to the required standard and cost.
Costing
Working with suppliers and internal teams to establish product costs and identify opportunities to achieve target margins and commercial objectives.
Materials & Components
Researching and sourcing appropriate fabrics, trims, finishes, packaging and other components required to develop the product.
Product Specifications
Working with design and technical teams to ensure product specifications, measurements, construction and other requirements are clearly communicated to suppliers.
Critical Path Management
Managing key development stages and deadlines to ensure products are approved and ready for production within the required timeframe.
Market & Trend Awareness
Keeping up to date with customer preferences, market trends, competitor activity and new product opportunities to help develop commercially relevant products.
Typical Job Titles by Level
Entry Level
Key Skills Needed
Salary
Figures are indicative and vary with experience, employer and location.
Progression
Product development offers a varied career path, with opportunities to develop expertise across different product categories, markets and stages of the development process. Many professionals begin in a product development administration, assistant or coordination role before progressing into product developer positions.
With experience, you can take responsibility for larger product ranges, more complex development projects and key supplier relationships, progressing into Senior Product Developer, Product Development Manager or Senior Product Development Manager roles.
There are also opportunities to specialise in areas such as Sourcing, Product Management, Materials, Supplier Management, Sustainability or specific product categories.
As your career develops, you may progress into Head of Product Development or Head of Product positions, managing teams and overseeing the development of products across multiple categories.
At senior level, experienced professionals can progress into Product Director, Product Development Director or Product & Sourcing Director roles, helping to shape the overall product strategy and direction of a business.
Ready to start your career in Product Development?
Explore live Product Development roles on Fashion & Retail Personnel, or brief the team directly so we can match you to the right opportunity.