Summary
The apparel production manager is in charge of the quality and volume of the product before being shipped out for market distribution. He cooperates with the research and development division of the company to make sure apparel products conform to company standards. He also works with manufacturing and production departments to monitor production and to make sure no under shipment on over shipment of products are made. He also researches trends, fashions or fads and targets certain age groups to create products that will suit the taste of that specific group.
Duties
Apparel production managers need to update themselves on the latest fashion trends because they are responsible for constantly studying product competition and look for flaws in their design. Through their observations and analysis, the apparel production managers then design better and more appealing products, advertise the product with the goal to “sell” their apparel. Another aspect of the apparel production managers’ responsibility is the quality of the product. They make sure all outgoing products pass company standards and that the products meet customer satisfaction by maintaining quality at a reasonable cost. Apparel production managers ensure that their product is always the best in the market in terms of durability, attractiveness and affordability. They control manufacturing output to avoid a glut of products in the market that would drive the price of the product down. They oversee production and curtail unnecessary wastage. Apparel production managers also meet with advertising agencies to promote company products and attend product launches.
Education and Training Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in engineering or science or three year’s related experience and/or training in an apparel company are required.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
Knowledge of apparel merchandising, teamwork, communication, interpersonal, creativity, analytical, problem solving, and leadership skills are necessary to be a good apparel production manager.
Working Conditions
Apparel production managers have a regular 40-hour week schedule. They work in a quiet, comfortable office environment. Traveling is done to meet with advertisers and clients and to attend product launches. Because of tight deadline schedules, working long hours is required, including evenings and weekends.
Salary
An apparel production manager makes $61,000 annually on average. Factors such as size of company, location, nature of the industry, benefits and experience may cause salaries to vary considerably among apparel production managers.
