ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Fabric Researcher & Developer

Innovative, Uncompromising, Romantic, Provocative, Upholding the power of emotion and the touch of the human hand: these are all elements that describe the fashion of the house of Alexander McQueen. The brand is synonymous with modern British couture, renowned for its strong identity and celebration of unbridled creativity. Integral to the McQueen culture is the juxtaposition between contrasting elements: femininity and masculinity, fragility and strength, tradition & modernity. Under the creative direction of Sarah Burton, the house produces critically acclaimed collections, driven by unparalleled vision and respect for craftsmanship. Burton was made Head of Design for womenswear in 2000 and was appointed Creative Director in 2010. The luxury brand was founded by Lee Alexander McQueen in 1992. Among the greatest fashion designers of his time, the legacy of his work lives on.

Alexander McQueen is in search of a proactive Fabric Researcher and Developer who possess excellent product sensibility and eye for detail.  This role will be based in our Central London offices, working within the WRTW team & reporting into the Head of Fabric and Print.

How you will contribute?

• Assist with original fabric/ textile research to establish the creative fabric direction of the season visiting European mills, suppliers and fabric fairs

• Working with key mills and suppliers to research and develop exclusive and creative textiles seasonally, launching and following fabric and colour trials.

• Follow the fabric development process from original research through to final prototypes, liaising with mills and suppliers, working to strict deadlines, budgets, to ensure the timely arrival of the collection.

• Managing the collections fabric process, coordination and organisation of textiles in the atelier and studio, liaising with London and Italian ateliers

• Research- Creative and in-depth research of design/ fabric concepts.

• Proactively resolve problems that may arise throughout the fabric development process, continually working to streamline and enhance the process

• Identify opportunities to incorporate sustainable fabric development techniques and materials

Who you are?

• Demonstrable experience developing fabrics and Wovens for a Luxury House

• Excellent level of technical fabric/ product knowledge

• Previous experience of building strong relationships with external parties (mills)

• Excellent level of attention to detail

• Excellent knowledge of materials

• Commercial awareness when considering product/ margins

• Strong communication skills and able to work in an agile and fast paced environment

• Able to work effectively both individually and as a team

• Flexible and able to travel frequently if required

• Degree in a related discipline (Textile design, Fabric Development)

Why work with us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a dynamic team with a visionary brand that offers possibilities to learn and grow. Talent development is a managerial principle at Kering, and we are committed to fostering internal mobility. Our common vision promotes leadership skills and helps every employee to reach their full potential in a stimulating and fulfilling workplace environment.

Kering is committed to building a diverse workforce.

We believe diversity in all its forms – gender, age, nationality, culture, religious beliefs, and sexual orientation – enriches the workplace. It opens up opportunities for people to express their talent, both individually and collectively and it helps foster our ability to adapt to a changing world. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background.