Development Assistant - Japan

We have an exciting opportunity for a Development Assistant - Japan, working within an integral part of our company. You will work closely alongside the Development Manager to assist in all aspects required for the successful development and completion of the Japan Collections, ensuring deadlines are met following the seasonal critical path.

Responsibilities:
• Support the Development Manager, PSL Japan and Licensee Design Teams in all aspects of communication and administration, relating to Japan developments.
• Work with systems in the Design Studio, act as a point of contact and resolve queries relating to fabric, yarn, trims and design.
• Process design drawings and aid in the Design Teams research sourcing and follow up development.
• Support the Development Manager on CADs, drawing sketches and spec sheets, developing and maintaining ‘up-to-date’ launch boards.
• File monthly and seasonal sales reports, set up fitting rooms and maintain a list of fit models.
• Organise fitting schedules and note take for the Design Team as well as process purchase orders for fitting costs.
• Manage and archive each season’s sketches, fabrics and trims both electronically and manually.
• Handle and monitor incoming and outgoing sample garments and shipments for Japan, ensuring pre and post Tenjikai shipments are properly organised.
• Organise London meetings with Japanese Business Partners (Onward Kashiyama) and ensure all documentation relating to expenses, acquisitions, and external work is completed.

Essential Experience and Skills Required:
• To be educated to degree level with a minimum 2.1 degree in Fashion Design or related subject or possess equivalent practical attainment.
• Fluent Japanese Speaker.
• Intermediate level of computer literacy in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and Microsoft Office suite.
• Basic knowledge of fabric and yarns with an awareness of the Womenswear mid to luxury market.
• Experience of working with business partners in various locations.
• Experience in setting up and maintaining electronic and manual filing systems and of international shipment and goods handling.

About You:
• Excellent communication skills; both written and verbal.
• Able to plan, organise and prioritise to meet set deadlines.
• Able to liaise effectively with different departments and suppliers.
• Self-motivated and disciplined.
• Passion for the Paul Smith brand and clothing in general including Womenswear.
• Flexible over working hours and able to travel in the U.K and internationally.

In addition to the annual salary this role attracts -
• A generous Clothing Allowance
• Discretionary discount on PSL goods
• Pension
• Flexi-time
• An annual leave entitlement of 28 days, inclusive of Bank Holidays increasing by one day per year up to a maximum of 33 days