This is a full-time, on-site role based in Nairobi County, Kenya, for a Pattern Maker/Production Manager. The individual in this role will be responsible for creating accurate patterns, overseeing the production process, and ensuring high-quality output in line with design specifications. Key responsibilities include managing pattern making, collaborating with the production team on fitting and sewing, and utilizing Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools to improve efficiency and optimize production processes.
Responsibilities
- Grading patterns – implement size grading for patterns to ensure consistency across various sizes
- Avail the correct fabric to the tailors promptly
- Coordinate with the production team and the head of operations to ensure items for dispatch are ready
- Take correct measurements of clients and discuss design details or adjustments with them
- Confirm the suitability of a fabric in comparison to the design
- Assign tailors to the outfits to be stitched for the day
- Sample creation – create samples for new designs, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design specifications
- Fabric cutting coordination – collaborate with the production team to ensure accurate fabric cutting based on patterns
- Pattern maintenance and storage – organize and maintain patterns systematically for easy retrieval and future use
- Quality control (fit and construction) – conduct quality control assessments, evaluating the fit and construction of samples to ensure all outfits are stitched correctly
- Troubleshooting – identify and troubleshoot pattern-related issues in collaboration with the production team
- Research and trend awareness – stay updated with industry trends and evolving techniques in pattern making through continuous research.
- Production schedule management – efficiently execute and manage the production schedule to meet delivery deadlines
- Quality assurance – implement and oversee comprehensive quality control measures for outfits, including measurements, finishing, stitching, and size tags
- Process oversight – track and monitor the entire production process, ensuring strict adherence to timelines
- Team leadership – provide effective supervision and leadership to the production team, including the pattern maker and tailors
- Reporting and inventory coordination – generate accurate and timely production reports and coordinate seamless inventory placement into the store
- Raw material management – monitor and track raw materials inventory, promptly notifying procurement for replenishment as needed
- Collaboration with sales – collaborate with the sales lead to ensure timely delivery of orders, make necessary adjustments, and address custom order requirements
- Technical sheet creation – create detailed and accurate technical sheets for every new design to guide the production team effectively
- Problem solving and innovation – identify and assess production challenges, working collaboratively with the CEO to develop innovative solutions
- Training and development – Provide training to production team members on new processes and technologies to improve their skills
Qualifications
- 2-4 years of previous experience in a similar role is mandatory
- Extensive experience as a pattern maker
- Experience managing a small production team