Full job descriptionProduct Development Assistant - Contract Opportunity
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Start Date: 28/09/2026
Contract Length: 31/10/2026
Pay Rate: £140 per day
Location: London, SW1P
Working Pattern: Fully site based


Key Responsibilities
Product Development
*Manage the product development critical path from initial concept through to production.
*Work closely with Designers to develop products across each category.
*Organise and manage prototype reviews and fit sessions from start to finish.
*Track the delivery of prototypes and showroom samples.
*Manage raw materials in partnership with RM Design and vendors.
*Manage press samples and ensure they are delivered on time.
*Review prototypes and coordinate the development process end to end.
*Work closely with manufacturers throughout the shoe development process.
*Ensure products meet the required quality standards from initial prototype through to production.
*Ensure collections are developed in line with brand and legal requirements.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management
*Communicate effectively with vendors and manufacturers.
*Build and maintain strong working relationships with Design and Merchandising teams.
*Manage vendor relationships throughout the development process.
*Use strong influencing and interpersonal skills to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
Planning & Administration
*Manage the Product Development calendar and ensure key deadlines are met.
*Prepare Look Books, coordinating all aspects from planning through to completion.
*Maintain clear, accurate and up-to-date data on a daily basis, including:
o Bills of materials
o Sampling and production
o Purchase orders and invoicing
o Departmental tracking documents
o Shipping paperwork
*Track deliveries and follow up on any delays or issues.
*Complete ad hoc reporting and analysis as required by the Manager.
Budget & Risk Management
*Support budget management throughout the product development process.
*Complete risk assessments from initial development through to production.
*Identify and manage potential risks to timelines, quality and delivery.
People Management
*Manage and support team members as required.
*Provide clear direction and maintain effective communication within the team.
Personal Profile
The ideal candidate will have:
*Experience in footwear product development.
*Experience sourcing and developing raw materials.
*Previous people management experience.
*Experience managing a Product Development calendar.
*Experience working closely with manufacturers on footwear development.
*Strong relationship management skills, particularly with Design and Merchandising teams.
*Excellent communication, influencing and interpersonal skills.
*The ability to adapt to changing business requirements.
*The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and highly pressured environment.
*A collaborative, team-focused approach.


If shortlisted, a recruiter from the team will contact you within 24-48 hours for an initial discussion. The call will come from a Manchester number (either 0161 or +44 161).
Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Impellam Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.