Senior Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Product Designer

Company: Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton

Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Creative

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office, 2 days remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end product design lifecycle for gifting and lifestyle accessories, ensuring commercial viability and alignment with the Katie Loxton brand aesthetic.

• Shape the creative direction and product vision for seasonal collections across all sales channels, from concept development to final product delivery.

• Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to junior designers and design assistants, fostering a collaborative and high-performing creative team environment.

• Translate emerging trends, competitive insights, and customer needs into innovative and desirable product offerings that uphold the brand's affordable luxury positioning.

• Drive the creation of detailed technical specifications, packaging designs, and all associated product collateral to meet brand standards and production requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Senior Product Designer," the responsibilities, particularly "line managing" and "shaping the creative direction," indicate a role with significant leadership and strategic input, often associated with a Design Lead or Creative Manager in other organizations. The focus on "affordable luxury" and "commercial mindset" is crucial for candidates to understand the specific market positioning.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Drive the creative product design process for gifting and lifestyle accessories, ensuring alignment with the Katie Loxton brand identity and aesthetic across all seasonal collections.

• Conceptualize and develop initial design ideas, including mood boards, colour palettes, and innovative product solutions that resonate with target markets.

• Create comprehensive technical specification sheets, artwork, and production-ready files for products, packaging, tags, and care labels.

• Oversee and contribute to the sample process, meticulously checking quality, fit, and adherence to brand standards before final production.

• Manage product decks, range plans, product codes, pricing, and visual assets, ensuring accuracy and consistency throughout the product lifecycle.

• Track project progress using critical paths and maintain detailed documentation for product codes, colour references, and other essential information.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Buying, Merchandising, Marketing, E-commerce, and Wholesale, to ensure seamless product development and market readiness.

• Present creative concepts and final collections confidently to senior stakeholders and wider teams, articulating the design vision and commercial rationale.

• Proactively communicate with suppliers to ensure alignment on product vision, timelines, quality standards, and production feasibility.

• Line manage and mentor a team of Product Designers and Design Assistants, providing constructive feedback, conducting performance reviews, and supporting their professional development.

• Conduct market research, analyze competitor activities, and identify emerging trends in accessories, gifting, and lifestyle products to inform design strategies.

• Prepare for key internal and external meetings by organizing samples, consolidating information, and maintaining a high standard of presentation in the product development space.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed, covering both individual contribution and leadership. The emphasis on "end-to-end delivery" and "tracking project progress" highlights the operational aspects of design management. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously within a fast-paced retail environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A design qualification in fashion, product design, or a related creative field is required.

Experience:

• Senior-level experience (5-10 years) in product design, with a proven track record of taking products from initial concept through to final production.

• Demonstrable experience in line managing, mentoring, or supervising midweight/junior designers and design assistants, guiding them through projects and development.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) for design creation, artwork, and technical specification development.

• Strong understanding of packaging design principles, typography, and their application in retail product presentation.

• Proven ability to balance a strong commercial mindset with creative innovation, aligning design output with business objectives.

• Exceptional visual communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining brand consistency and quality.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritizing tasks and meeting tight seasonal deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in creating and maintaining detailed technical specifications for product and packaging.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D design software or product visualization tools.

• Knowledge of sustainable design practices and materials relevant to accessories and gifting.

• Familiarity with retail merchandising and range planning processes.

• Exposure to e-commerce product presentation and digital design considerations.

• Understanding of the "affordable luxury" market positioning and its design implications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize practical design software proficiency and commercial acumen. The "5-10 years" experience level suggests a need for significant hands-on product development expertise and some level of team guidance, even if formal line management experience is preferred rather than strictly mandatory for all candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A strong, concept-driven portfolio showcasing a range of product design work, specifically highlighting experience with accessories, gifting, or lifestyle products.

• The portfolio must demonstrate a clear understanding of the Katie Loxton brand values, commercial objectives, and the ability to execute designs to a high-quality standard.

• Evidence of end-to-end product development, from initial sketches and mood boards to final technical specifications and production-ready artwork.

• Case studies or examples illustrating how you have balanced creativity with commercial requirements and market trends.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of technical specification sheets or artwork files that demonstrate accuracy, clarity, and completeness for manufacturing.

• Documentation of workflow processes used for managing multiple design projects, including critical path management and deadline adherence.

• Evidence of collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., sharing design specifications, receiving feedback from buying or merchandising).

• If applicable, examples of how you have guided junior designers through design processes or provided feedback on their work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to showcase not just aesthetic appeal but also commercial viability, technical execution, and process management. Examples of work that demonstrate an understanding of the "affordable luxury" market and the specific product categories (bags, accessories, gifting) will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Competitive salary based on experience (DOE - Depending on Experience).

Benefits:

• 33 days of holiday per year, rising to 35 with length of service, inclusive of bank holidays.

• A generous staff discount across both Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton brands, a highly favored employee perk.

• Opportunities for professional development and learning, supporting further growth within the company.

• Access to an innovative and friendly workplace environment with a supportive team culture.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, totaling 40 hours per week.

• The role operates on a hybrid model, requiring an average of three days in the Banbury office and two days remote work per week.

• Office attendance may increase to five days a week during peak periods, such as during critical sign-off phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical UK market rates for a Senior Product Designer with leadership responsibilities in the fashion/retail sector. The hybrid work arrangement offers a balance, but candidates should be aware of potential increases in office presence during busy periods. The significant staff discount is a notable benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fashion Accessories, Jewellery, Gifting, Retail. The company operates in a dynamic, fast-paced consumer goods market, focusing on creating desirable, affordable luxury products.

Company Size: The company is described as a "family-run, entrepreneurial company" with an "exciting pace of life and a bright and friendly team." This suggests a medium-sized organization where individual contributions are visible and can have a significant impact.

Founded: Joma Jewellery was founded in 2008, and Katie Loxton was launched in 2015, indicating a mature yet still growth-oriented business with established brands and market presence.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Product Designer will be part of a "wonderfully talented Product Design team."

• This role involves "line managing Product Designers and Design Assistants," indicating a hierarchical structure within the design department.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and integrity.

• There is a focus on "innovating our business behind the scenes" and a "data-driven approach" implied by the need for commercial awareness and understanding of customer needs.

• A commitment to diversity and inclusion is stated, encouraging all team members to contribute ideas and be their authentic selves.

Company Website: https://careers.katieloxton.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by an entrepreneurial spirit within a family-run business framework. This often translates to a more agile decision-making process and a strong sense of collective ownership. The emphasis on innovation and diversity suggests an environment that values new ideas and inclusive practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior individual contributor level with significant leadership responsibilities. It bridges hands-on design execution with team management and strategic input into product vision. It’s a stepping stone for aspiring Design Leads or Creative Managers who want to hone their leadership and strategic design skills within a specific brand context.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Product Designer will likely report to a Head of Design, Creative Director, or a senior executive responsible for product development. They will, in turn, manage junior designers and design assistants. This structure allows for strategic direction from above and team execution from below.

Operations Impact: The Senior Product Designer has a direct and substantial impact on the company's revenue and market position. By shaping seasonal collections, ensuring product desirability, and maintaining brand integrity, their work directly influences sales performance across wholesale and retail channels, customer perception, and brand loyalty. Their ability to balance creative vision with commercial demands is key to this impact.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to deepen line management skills, mentor a growing team, and potentially take on more strategic leadership roles within the design department.

• Brand Expansion: Contribute to the growth and evolution of established brands (Katie Loxton and Joma Jewellery) and potentially influence new product lines or brand initiatives.

• Skill Specialization: Further develop expertise in specific areas like accessories design, gifting, packaging, or trend forecasting, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain deeper insights into merchandising, marketing, and e-commerce operations through close collaboration, broadening business acumen.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for professional growth, moving beyond pure design execution into strategic leadership and team development. The emphasis on commercial success and brand evolution means that candidates who can demonstrate a business-oriented approach to design will be highly valued for their long-term potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a hybrid model, involving an average of three days per week in the company's office located in Banbury, Oxfordshire. The description mentions an "exciting buzz of our friendly office," suggesting a dynamic and collaborative workspace.

Office Location(s): Cherwell Business Village, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 2SP, United Kingdom. This location is in a business park setting, likely offering a professional and accessible work environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages in-office collaboration with design teams and cross-functional departments on key days. The "friendly office" implies a positive and supportive atmosphere.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially PDM/PLM systems for product data management. The company likely provides necessary hardware and software for design tasks.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with senior designers, junior team members, and stakeholders from buying, merchandising, marketing, and e-commerce during office days.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility, with two days of remote work, allowing for focused individual work while maintaining team connectivity. However, candidates should note the potential for increased office days during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, balancing in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. Candidates should be comfortable with a structured hybrid schedule and understand the need to be present in the office for specific collaborative activities and during peak business periods.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess suitability for the Senior Product Designer role and alignment with brand aesthetics.

• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager (e.g., Head of Design/Creative Director) to discuss experience, design philosophy, leadership approach, and understanding of the brand. This stage will heavily involve a portfolio review, focusing on concept development, commercial awareness, and technical execution.

• Second Interview/Panel Interview: May involve meeting with other senior team members or cross-functional leads (e.g., Buying, Merchandising). This stage could include a design challenge, presentation of a specific portfolio piece, or a deeper dive into problem-solving and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview/Offer: Discussion of salary, benefits, and contract details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 strong projects that best represent your senior-level experience, leadership potential, and alignment with Katie Loxton's "affordable luxury" aesthetic. Include a mix of bags, accessories, and gifting items if possible.

• Showcase the Process: For each project, detail your role, the problem you solved, your creative process (sketches, mood boards, iterations), technical specifications, and the final outcome. Clearly articulate how you balanced creativity with commercial requirements.

• Highlight Leadership: If you have line management experience, include examples of how you mentored junior designers, managed projects, or contributed to team strategy.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data or metrics to illustrate the success of your designs (e.g., sales performance, customer feedback, efficiency improvements in production).

• Brand Alignment: Ensure your presentation demonstrates a clear understanding of the Katie Loxton brand and its target audience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: Be prepared for a short design task (e.g., conceptualize a new product for a specific season, redesign packaging for an existing item). Focus on demonstrating your creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to work within given constraints.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your portfolio and any design challenge work clearly and concisely, highlighting key decisions and outcomes. Be ready to articulate your design rationale and commercial considerations.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Katie Loxton and Joma Jewellery, understanding their brand ethos, target market, product range, and recent collections. Be ready to discuss how your design philosophy aligns with theirs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the candidate's portfolio. Applicants should prepare to not only showcase their design skills but also their strategic thinking, commercial acumen, and leadership capabilities, as evidenced through their past projects and experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency is essential. This includes:

  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, technical drawings, detailed artwork, and logo placement.
  • Photoshop: For mood boards, concept visualization, image manipulation, and rendering.
  • InDesign: For creating presentations, product decks, and detailed specification documents.

• Microsoft Office Suite: For general documentation, spreadsheets (Excel for range plans, pricing), and presentations (PowerPoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• The role requires collaboration with E-commerce and Wholesale teams, who likely use CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and potentially product lifecycle management (PLM) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for managing product data, orders, and inventory. Familiarity with how design data integrates into these systems is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is advanced Adobe Creative Suite proficiency. While direct experience with PLM or CRM systems isn't mandated, understanding their function in the product lifecycle and being able to provide data in compatible formats will be advantageous for seamless cross-functional collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: A core value driving innovation in product design and collection development.

• Collaboration: Essential for working effectively with cross-functional teams and mentoring junior staff.

• Integrity: Upholding brand standards, ethical practices, and honest communication.

• Commercial Acumen: Demonstrating a strong understanding of market needs, trends, and business objectives in design decisions.

• Quality: Commitment to high-quality execution in both design and final product, reflecting the "affordable luxury" positioning.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands close partnership with Buying, Merchandising, Marketing, and E-commerce teams to ensure product success. This involves proactive communication, idea sharing, and seeking input to refine designs.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: As a senior member, fostering a culture of learning and development within the design team is expected, encouraging the sharing of best practices and expertise.

• Feedback Loop: A willingness to both provide and receive constructive feedback is crucial for iterating on designs and improving processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are deeply embedded in the "family-run, entrepreneurial" ethos. This suggests a culture where open communication, mutual respect, and a shared drive for success are paramount. The emphasis on integrity and quality reinforces the brand's commitment to customer satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity and Commerciality: Constantly needing to innovate while ensuring designs are commercially viable, on-brand, and meet pricing targets for the affordable luxury market.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Managing multiple seasonal collections and projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, requiring strong organizational and time management skills.

• Team Leadership: Effectively mentoring and motivating junior designers, managing performance, and fostering a positive team dynamic, especially within a hybrid work setup.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining a cohesive brand aesthetic across diverse product categories and collections while also pushing creative boundaries.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Strategic Design Leadership: Gaining experience in shaping the overall product vision and creative direction for a brand.

• Mentorship and Management Skills: Developing leadership capabilities through line management of a design team.

• Industry Trend Expertise: Deepening knowledge of fashion, accessories, and gifting trends through active market research and application.

• Cross-Functional Acumen: Enhancing understanding of retail operations, merchandising, marketing, and e-commerce strategies through close collaboration.

• Brand Growth Contribution: Playing a key role in the continued success and evolution of established brands within a growing company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in fast-paced retail environments, emphasizing the need for strong organizational skills and leadership. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a clear pathway for career advancement into more strategic and leadership-focused positions within the design and creative functions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How do you approach balancing creative innovation with commercial viability in product design, especially within the affordable luxury market?" (Prepare examples of past projects where you achieved this balance.)

• "Describe your process for developing a new seasonal collection from initial concept to final product delivery. What are the key stages and potential challenges?" (Highlight your project management and cross-functional collaboration skills.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across a diverse product range while also introducing fresh ideas?" (Discuss your understanding of brand guidelines and your creative process.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about the Katie Loxton brand and its products? How do you see your design philosophy aligning with ours?" (Showcase your research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design teams like Buying, Merchandising, and Marketing?" (Emphasize your communication and teamwork skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a compelling story: the problem, your solution, your process, and the outcome. Focus on the "why" behind your design decisions.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually clean, well-organized, and easy to follow. Use high-quality images and clear annotations.

• Highlight Leadership: If presenting projects where you led others, clearly delineate your role and the contributions of your team.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful projects and be prepared to answer questions rather than presenting every detail.

• Brand Context: Frame your work within the context of the Katie Loxton brand – how it aligns with their aesthetic, target audience, and commercial goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, commercial acumen, and leadership potential. Candidates should be ready to articulate their thought process, showcase problem-solving skills, and illustrate how they can contribute to the company's continued success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided careers portal link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight relevant experience in accessories, gifting, and lifestyle products. Emphasize projects demonstrating commercial awareness, technical execution, and alignment with the "affordable luxury" aesthetic of Katie Loxton.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any line management or mentorship experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "product design," "commercial awareness," "technical specifications," and "line management."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, commercial rationale, and leadership approach. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio to answer potential behavioral and situational interview questions.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton, understanding their brand identity, target market, and recent product launches. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and vision can contribute to their ongoing success.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.