Production Manager

About Us: KIVARI is a Sydney-based fashion brand founded in 2014, known for the ultimate trifecta of style, strength and confidence. All of our products are designed by our talented team in Australia, crafted with sustainability in mind and materials sourced from across the world. Our timeless designs are inspired by a passion for travel and a deep connection to the ocean.

For us, community comes first, we are committed to quality always and fostering a warm environment where creativity thrives and we provide the opportunity for you to evolve with us as our brand grows across the globe.

About You: You are a meticulous, detail-oriented Production Manager who thrives on maintaining production integrity by analysing quality, coordinating timelines and liaising effectively with manufacturers and suppliers to deliver collections on time and to a high standard. 

We seek a hands-on team player to support the end-to-end garment production process, acting as the link between creativity and craftmanship. This role works closely with the design and development teams to manage raw materials, provide technical support throughout our production stages, and ensures every garment reflects KIVARI’s commitment to quality and detail.

Key Responsibilities:

· Review and approve bulk fabric submissions against approved lab dips, handfeel standards and technical specifications prior to bulk cutting.

· Coordinate and assess fabric testing (colour fastness, shrinkage, pilling, and other performance tests) with suppliers and third-party test labs, ensuring results meet KIVARI's quality benchmarks.

· Maintain accurate records of fabric approvals, test reports, and swatch libraries for audit and reference purposes.

· Maintain production trackers and critical path documents that give team clear, broad visibility of where status of styles are.

· Track, chase, and follow up outstanding PP samples and shipment samples across all suppliers to ensure on-time receipt against the critical path.

· Dealing with factories on day to day production issues

· Prebooking of griege and fabrics for new season

· Negotiating production pricing for each supplier and working closely with design on maintaining desired margin target.

· Raise bulk production PO's.

· Maintaining accurate up to date records on all orders, costs and delivery schedules.

· Analyse product returns data to identify quality-related trends, recurring fault types, and problem styles or suppliers.

· Work closely with Design, Development, and Merchandising teams to ensure fabric and sample decisions to reflect design intent and commercial requirements.

· Liaise with the warehouse on any in-line or pre-shipment inspection findings and coordinate remediation where needed.

Qualifications:

· 5+ years’ experience within a Womenswear Fashion Brand or apparel supplier environment in Production roles.

· Clear and effective communication.

· Ability to build strong relationships and partner with internal and external stakeholders. 

· High level of integrity and commitment to customer satisfaction. 

· Able to demonstrate knowledge of garment construction, fabrications, fit, shape, trims. 

· Strong time management, you thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume setting.

What We Offer:

· A creative, collaborative environment: Join a team that values innovation and teamwork, where your contributions will help shape the future of our brand.

· Growth Opportunities: KIVARI is a rapidly growing brand, and we are committed to helping you develop your skills and progress in your career.

· This role will be based at our new Rosebery Head Office.

· Sustainability commitment: Play a role in shaping designs that reflect our commitment to sustainability, creating a positive impact on both our community and the environment.

· Competitive salary and benefits package including a generous clothing allowance.

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please send your resume and cover letter directly to careers@kivari.com.au.

We will not be engaging with recruitment agencies for this role, and we will only be considering direct applicants.

While we strive to respond to all applicants, due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

KIVARI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.