Job Description

Vacancy - Homeware Design & Product Development Assistant

Location: Office based - Commutable to Lytham St. Annes Lancashire



Department: Design & Product Development



Reports To: Design & Product Development Manager



Job Type: Permanent - Full Time



Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm - 37.5 hours contract

Company Overview:

The Senza Group are a leading multi-million-pound retail supply business specialising in a wide range of homewares and lifestyle categories who are known for a commitment to driving innovation and delivering quality and customer satisfaction. The business operates from two key sites in the Uk - sales and admin in the Hemel Hempstead site and from a creative design hub and company showroom in Lytham St. Annes, with additional offices in China and Germany.



At a time of expansion within our organisation there is a new opportunity for a Design and Product Development Administrator to join our small dynamic team in Lytham St. Annes. This is a great time to join the business with scope for the right candidate to establish a strong career path within the group.

Role Overview:

The Homeware Design and Development Assistant role will support in design to bring innovative homeware products from concept to market. This role involves assisting in the design process, coordinating with suppliers, managing samples, and ensuring timely delivery of products.



It is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the homeware design and product development process, with potential for growth into roles such as Product Designer, Product Development Manager, or Design Lead.



The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years' experience in product development or sourcing, with the ability to work independently and collaborate with the wider team and have a passion for retail and or manufacturing. This role suits an individual who is organised able to work independently at pace with a can-do attitude who is naturally organised and proactive.

Key Responsibilities

Design Support

: Assist in creating design concepts, mood boards, and product sketches to meet both customer briefs and own brand product development seasonal strategy.

Product Development

: Support the development of product specifications, including materials, finishes, and manufacturing processes.

Sample Management

: Coordinate the creation and development of prototypes, ensuring they meet design and quality standards.

Supplier Coordination

: Communicate with suppliers to manage timelines, resolve issues, and ensure the feasibility of designs.

Trend Analysis

: Supports the Design Manager by conducting market research to identify emerging trends and competitor products, providing insights to inform design decisions.

Administrative Tasks

: Maintain organized records of design files, sample inventories, and product documentation.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

: Work closely with marketing, sales, and production teams to ensure alignment and timely delivery of products.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

: Bachelor's degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, or a related field.

Technical Skills

: Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), CAD tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Experience

: Previous experience or internships in product design or development, preferably within retail or the homeware industry.

Creative Abilities

: Strong sketching skills and a keen eye for detail and aesthetics.

Communication

: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with internal teams and external suppliers.

Organizational Skills

: Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines.

Analytical Thinking

: Capability to analyse market trends and consumer preferences to inform design decisions.

Desirable Attributes

Passion for Homeware

: Genuine interest in home decor and product design trends.

Adaptability

: Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Team Player

: Collaborative mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Attention to Detail

: Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy.

Experience and Qualifications Required:

Qualifications in Mathematics and English Proven experience in a Design and Product Development Administrator or similar role. MS office competency Able to balance multiple tasks, plan workload and provide accurate up to date master data Proactive and organised with administrative experience in a similar or related sector Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organise, analyse and communicate significant amounts of information across multiple projects with attention to detail and accuracy. Excellent communication skills both verbal and written - Chinese would be ideal but not essential. Have manufacturing knowledge ideally across homewares and lifestyle product category A passion for creativity with attention to detail

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunity to work with a dynamic team in a fast-paced environment. Career growth opportunities.

Package:

Up to 32k Base Salary - per annum, based on the candidate's experience and qualifications. 20 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays Company Pension Scheme Free parking

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are the ideal fit for this role.

Company Values:

We value innovation, precision, and a collaborative work environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.



Join us and be a part of a team that drives innovation and excellence in the retail manufacturing industry.

If you see yourself as part of our team, we would like to hear from you.