Fabric Technology Manager - Childrenswear

Fabric Technology Manager - Childrenswear

Job ID 74121

Team Product

Location Leicester

Job Schedule Full time

Salary Competitive

Posting Date 22/01/2026

Apply Before 05/02/2026

About the Role: In a nutshell, the role involves

• Leading and managing the team
• Working with the other Childrenswear Managers to develop and implement the strategy for the department
• Working collaboratively with all areas of the business
• Spearheading the innovation of new fabrics, yarns and materials, to continually improve quality standards
• Providing the expertise to manage the fabric and product approval process, overseeing critical paths to ensure on time delivery and problem solving where required

Travel will be a key part of this role visiting trade shows, factories and suppliers. There is so much more to it though as this role spans all areas of Next and is all about collaboration:

Buying, Merchandising and Design: Starting with strategy and the early stages of product development, driving innovation and setting the highest standards of quality.

Supply Base: Planning and strategy as well as supplier management and relationship development to ensure quality standards and compliance are met.

Legislation and Sustainability: Providing expert fabric advice to the teams, and working with Product legislation and sustainability teams to ensure that company goals are met.

International: Working with the International teams to ensure that Childrenswear product is developed to be compliant for the relevant international territories.

Warehouse: A close relationship with the Next warehouses is imperative, to ensure Next customers only receive the best quality products.

COP: Working closely with the COP team to ensure we are using compliant suppliers, factories & mills.

Customer Services: Resolution of fabric quality complaints and safety issues.

This is a people management role. Working alongside the current Childrenswear Technology Manager, you will directly manage a strong team of 10 x Grade 2 (Technologist) direct reports. The current team has a wealth of knowledge and experience; your role will be to offer support, encourage development, inspire and empower them. Recruitment and developing the next generation of technologists will also be vital over the next few years.

About You: You'll have extensive hands-on knowledge of complex supply chain and fabric manufacturing processes. A strong technical background, and an understanding of sustainability targets and legal compliance for childrenswear is essential to ensure that products and fabrics are developed to meet Next's high quality standards. You will have managed a team previously and need to demonstrate that you can inspire others, infuse energy, passion and optimism into their actions and behaviours in order to motivate.

• 25% off most NEXT, MADE , Lipsy , Gap and Victoria's Secret products ( when purchased through NEXT)
• Company performance based bonus
• On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
• 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
• Early VIP access to sale stock
• Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
• Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
• Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
• Free on-site parking
• Financial Wellbeing - Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
• Apprenticeship - Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
• Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
• Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
• Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more

Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.

We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call us on and leave a voicemail.

Team Overview

This is where ideas become incredible collections. Designers, Buyers, Merchandisers, and Technologists collaborate to create products our customers love. You'll spot global trends, strategically balance our range plans and meticulously test quality so every season feels fresh, inspiring and exceptional.

Explore similar opportunities across our business.

Buyer - Menswear - 12 Months Fixed Term Contract

You've probably heard of NEXT, but did you know about our portfolio? Every brand in our offering brings a distinct story, attitude and community. Spanning contemporary lifestyle brands, established high street names and timeless collections, together they showcase the vibrancy of today's retail world.

About NEXT

You know Next, but did you know we're a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We're the UK's 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we're the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it's now possible to buy on-line from over 70 countries around the world! So we've gone global!

Challenges. Opportunities. The future. Let's take it on at NEXT.