Careers in Production
Production is where fashion ideas become finished products — making sure garments are produced to the right standard, cost and deadline. It's a fast-paced, commercially important career combining product knowledge, organisation, problem-solving and relationship management.
Production Job Description
Production professionals are responsible for managing the process of turning a product concept into a finished, commercially viable product. In fashion, this can involve working closely with designers, buyers, merchandisers, garment technologists and suppliers to ensure products are developed and manufactured to the required specification.
The role can vary depending on the size and structure of the business. Responsibilities may include sourcing suppliers, negotiating costs, managing critical paths, approving samples, monitoring quality and ensuring production is completed and delivered on time.
Production teams often work with suppliers and manufacturers both in the UK and internationally, making strong communication, organisation and problem-solving skills essential.
Did You Know?
A production professional can be responsible for coordinating every stage between an initial product concept and the finished garment arriving in a warehouse. Managing costs, quality, lead times and suppliers means no two days are necessarily the same.
A Production Professional’s Core Responsibilities
Product Development
Working with design, buying and technical teams to develop products from initial concepts through to approved samples and final production.
Supplier & Factory Management
Building relationships with suppliers and manufacturers, monitoring performance and ensuring production partners meet agreed standards and deadlines.
Costing & Negotiation
Working with suppliers to establish product costs, negotiate prices and identify opportunities to maintain margins and improve value.
Critical Path Management
Managing production timelines and key deadlines throughout the product development and manufacturing process to ensure products are delivered on schedule.
Sample Management
Coordinating samples, approvals and amendments, working with design and technical teams to ensure the final product meets the required specification.
Quality Control
Monitoring product quality and working with suppliers to resolve any issues, ensuring finished products meet the required standards.
Production & Order Management
Placing and monitoring production orders, tracking progress and resolving issues that could affect cost, quality or delivery.
Sourcing
Researching and developing new suppliers and manufacturing opportunities, considering factors such as cost, quality, capacity, location and sustainability.
Typical Job Titles by Level
Entry Level
Key Skills Needed
Salary
Figures are indicative and vary with experience, employer and location.
Progression
Production offers a varied career path with opportunities to develop both broad and specialist expertise. Many professionals begin in a production administration, coordination or product development role before progressing into production executive, production merchandising or production management positions.
With experience, you can take responsibility for larger product ranges, suppliers and production budgets and progress into Production Manager, Senior Production Manager or Sourcing Manager roles.
There are also opportunities to specialise in areas such as Product Development, Sourcing, Supplier Management, Production Merchandising, Quality Control or Garment Technology.
As your career develops, you may progress into Head of Production, Head of Sourcing or Head of Product Development positions, managing teams and overseeing production across multiple product categories or markets.
At senior level, experienced professionals can progress into Production Director, Sourcing Director, Product Director or Operations Director roles, helping to shape the overall product, sourcing and manufacturing strategy of a business.
Ready to start your career in Production?
Explore live Production roles on Fashion & Retail Personnel, or brief the team directly so we can match you to the right opportunity.