Midweight Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Midweight Product Designer

Company: Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton

Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design & Development

Date Posted: 2026-05-29

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

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

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the end-to-end product lifecycle for fashion and lifestyle accessories, from initial concept ideation to final product delivery.

• Develop and maintain detailed technical specifications, artwork, and product documentation to ensure brand consistency and quality standards.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Buying, Senior Design, and wider teams to support successful product launches and maintain critical paths.

• Contribute to market trend analysis and competitor activity research to inform innovative product development and personalization opportunities.

• Uphold and enhance the "affordable luxury" positioning through meticulous attention to detail in product design, packaging, and presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is firmly within the Product Design and Development category, focusing on the tangible creation of physical goods for fashion and lifestyle brands. The hybrid work arrangement with a specific number of office days indicates a need for in-person collaboration and access to physical resources.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Ideate, design, and develop innovative, on-brand product collections that align with the company's affordable luxury positioning.

• Create detailed technical specifications, artwork, and product documentation using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Manage the end-to-end product development process, including packaging design, tags, care labels, POS displays, and product testing.

• Conduct rigorous sample reviews against specifications, ensuring uncompromising quality and attention to detail throughout production.

• Maintain accurate critical paths, product codes, colour descriptions, and comprehensive product information.

• Collaborate closely with Buying and wider Design teams to ensure seamless product launches and timely delivery.

• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering accuracy, organization, and creativity within the design process.

• Propose and explore new product innovation and personalization opportunities to enhance the brand's offering.

• Conduct ongoing market trend analysis and competitor activity research, sharing actionable insights with the design and management teams.

• Provide regular, clear project updates and communicate progress effectively to Senior Designers and stakeholders.

• Proactively identify and implement process improvements to enhance team efficiency and overall workflow optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on design role that requires a blend of creative input and meticulous execution. The emphasis on sample review, technical specifications, and critical path management points to a need for strong organizational and process-oriented skills alongside design talent.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 2-5 years of progressive experience in a product design role, preferably within the fashion, accessories, or lifestyle product sectors.

Required Skills:

• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for artwork creation and technical documentation.

• Exceptional visual communication and organizational skills, with a keen eye for detail and high levels of accuracy.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Proven experience in product development lifecycle management, from concept to production.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional collaboration and reporting.

• Ability to work confidently both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• A genuine passion for fashion, accessories, and lifestyle products, with an understanding of current market trends.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D design software for product visualization.

• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and material sourcing within the fashion/lifestyle industry.

• Basic understanding of retail merchandising and POS display design principles.

• Experience in mentoring or guiding junior design team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specified experience level of 2-5 years, coupled with the need for proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and proven product development experience, suggests a midweight role requiring independent project management and a solid foundation in design execution. The emphasis on "fashion, accessories or lifestyle brands" is a critical qualifier.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects demonstrating the full product design lifecycle, from concept ideation to final production-ready assets.

• Include detailed examples of technical specifications, artwork creation (using Adobe Suite), and packaging design.

• Highlight projects that illustrate your ability to manage critical paths, conduct sample reviews, and ensure quality control.

• Present case studies that explain your problem-solving approach, how you incorporated market trend analysis, and the final product's success or learnings.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal workflow for managing multiple design projects simultaneously, including time management and prioritization techniques.

• Articulate your approach to creating and reviewing technical specifications to minimize errors and ensure manufacturability.

• Explain how you collaborate with buying teams and manufacturers to resolve design and production challenges.

• Discuss your methods for staying organized and maintaining accurate product information and critical path documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a product design role at this level, a strong portfolio is paramount. The requirements focus on demonstrating practical application of design skills, process management, and an understanding of the commercial aspects of product development, moving beyond purely aesthetic contributions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £28,000 - £38,000 per annum (Dependent on Experience - DOE)

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: Based on experience and demonstrated skills within the specified range.

• Generous Holiday Allowance: 33 days of annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays, increasing to 35 days with continued length of service.

• Significant Staff Discount: A highly valued staff discount across both Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton brands.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for learning and growth, supporting career advancement and skill enhancement.

• Hybrid Working Flexibility: A balance of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

• Positive Work Environment: Access to an innovative and friendly workplace culture.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Hybrid arrangement requires an average of three days per week in the Banbury, Oxfordshire office, with the remaining two days offering remote work flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on industry benchmarks for Midweight Product Designers in the UK, particularly in regions like Oxfordshire, and considering the company's size and industry, a salary range of £28,000-£38,000 is estimated. The provided benefits align with standard offerings for full-time positions in the retail and lifestyle sectors, with a notable emphasis on staff discount and holiday entitlement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fashion Accessories, Jewellery, Lifestyle Products, Retail.

Company Size: The company operates multiple brands (Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton), suggesting a medium to large enterprise within the lifestyle retail sector. The "family-run, entrepreneurial" description implies a dynamic, fast-paced environment where individual contributions are highly visible.

Founded: Joma Jewellery founded in 2008, Katie Loxton launched in 2015. This indicates a company with established brand recognition and a history of growth and expansion.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely comprises Senior Designers, Midweight Designers (this role), and potentially Junior Designers or Assistants.

• Collaboration is expected with Buying, Marketing, E-commerce, and Operations teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: Utilizes market trend analysis and competitor activity to inform design decisions and product innovation.

• Process Optimization: Continuously seeks ways to improve workflows, enhance team efficiency, and streamline the product development lifecycle.

• Agile Execution: Operates in a fast-paced environment, requiring adaptability, quick decision-making, and efficient project management to meet launch deadlines.

• Brand-Centric Approach: All design activities are focused on maintaining and enhancing the "affordable luxury" brand identity across both Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's description highlights a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and established brand presence. The emphasis on diversity and inclusion, encouraging authentic selves, and valuing contributions from all team members suggests an inclusive and forward-thinking workplace culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Midweight Product Designer role, indicating an individual contributor position that requires a solid understanding of design principles and product development processes. The role involves taking ownership of projects, contributing creative ideas, and mentoring junior staff, signifying a step beyond entry-level responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to Senior Designers and collaborates closely with Buying and wider Design teams. This structure allows for guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals while fostering cross-functional teamwork.

Operations Impact: The designer's work directly influences the company's product offerings, brand perception, and ultimately, sales revenue. By creating desirable and high-quality products that align with market trends and the "affordable luxury" positioning, the role contributes significantly to customer acquisition and retention. The ability to innovate and personalize products also offers a competitive edge.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize further in specific product categories (e.g., jewellery design, handbag design) or functional areas (e.g., packaging design, technical development).

• Senior Designer Path: Progression to a Senior Product Designer role, involving greater project leadership, strategic input, and potentially managing a small team.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Opportunities to move into related areas such as Brand Management, Merchandising, or E-commerce Product Management, leveraging design expertise.

• Skill Development: Access to training and development programs to enhance proficiency in design software, explore new design methodologies, and stay abreast of industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from Midweight Product Designer typically involves taking on more complex projects, leading design initiatives, and developing strategic contributions. The company's entrepreneurial nature suggests potential for rapid advancement for high performers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company describes their office as a "friendly office" with an "exciting buzz," suggesting a collaborative and energetic workspace. Given the hybrid model, it's likely designed to facilitate both focused work and team interaction.

Office Location(s): Cherwell Business Village, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 2SP. This location provides access to a business park environment, potentially with good transport links and local amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office space is designed to encourage interaction between design, buying, and other departments, facilitating seamless communication and project execution.

• Creative Tools: Access to necessary design software (Adobe Creative Suite), potentially physical design resources, and sample review areas.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily informal and formal interactions with colleagues, fostering a strong team spirit and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule: The role operates on a standard Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM schedule, with the flexibility to work from home for two days a week, allowing for a balanced work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model emphasizes a balance between the benefits of in-person collaboration—crucial for design work—and the flexibility of remote work. The office environment is expected to be conducive to creative thinking and teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess suitability and alignment with the role's requirements.

• First Interview: Likely a discussion with a Senior Designer or Hiring Manager to delve into your experience, design philosophy, and technical skills. Expect questions about your portfolio projects and approach to product development.

• Practical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present your portfolio in detail. Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects, explaining your process, challenges, solutions, and the impact of your designs. This may include a small design task or discussion of a hypothetical scenario.

• Team/Cross-functional Interview: An opportunity to meet potential colleagues from Buying or other departments to assess cultural fit and collaboration style.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, technical specification creation, packaging design, and end-to-end product development.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your creative process, the challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the final outcome or impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your understanding of the product lifecycle, including sample reviews, critical path management, and collaboration with other teams.

• Show Brand Alignment: Emphasize how your designs fit the "affordable luxury" aesthetic of Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the success of your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to market trend analysis and how you translate trends into commercial products.

• Prepare examples of how you have managed multiple deadlines and prioritized tasks effectively.

• Think about how you would mentor a junior designer and foster a collaborative team environment.

• Understand the company's brands and their target audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both creative and practical capabilities. Highlighting a strong portfolio that demonstrates a structured approach to product development and brand understanding will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for all artwork creation, technical documentation, and visual communication.

• Product Data Management (PDM) / PLM Systems: Familiarity with systems used for managing product information, specifications, and critical paths.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, or similar for tracking project progress, deadlines, and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Market Trend Analysis Tools: Awareness of resources and platforms for researching fashion and lifestyle trends (e.g., WGSN, trend forecasting reports).

• Internal Reporting: Ability to interpret sales data or feedback to inform design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for internal communication and team coordination.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM): Experience with systems for organizing and storing design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is a strong command of Adobe Creative Suite. Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems and project management tools will significantly enhance a candidate's applicability by demonstrating an understanding of industry-standard workflows for product development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging fresh ideas and unique approaches to product design that keep the brands at the forefront of fashion and lifestyle trends.

• Quality & Detail: A commitment to excellence in every aspect of product creation, from initial concept to final polished item.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals work together, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.

• Efficiency & Organisation: Striving for streamlined processes, accurate documentation, and timely delivery to meet business objectives.

• Integrity & Authenticity: Upholding honest practices and encouraging team members to be their true selves, contributing to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with Buying, Marketing, and other departments to ensure design aligns with commercial goals and brand strategy.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, concise, and timely communication regarding project status, challenges, and feedback.

• Constructive Feedback: Participating in design reviews and critiques with a willingness to give and receive feedback to improve outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Proactively sharing insights on market trends, design techniques, and process improvements with the wider team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company emphasizes a culture that values both creative output and operational efficiency. The emphasis on diversity and inclusion, coupled with a collaborative spirit, suggests a dynamic and supportive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Commercial Demands: Effectively translating market trends and brand aesthetics into commercially viable products that meet sales targets and production constraints.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling diverse design projects with competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment, requiring strong prioritization and time management skills.

• Ensuring Brand Consistency: Maintaining the distinct "affordable luxury" positioning across a wide range of products and collections for two brands.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Staying ahead of rapidly changing fashion and lifestyle trends and translating them into innovative product designs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or explore new design software relevant to product development.

• Industry Trend Seminars/Workshops: Access to resources and events focused on fashion, accessories, and lifestyle product trends.

• Mentorship: Learning from Senior Designers and experienced team members to refine design skills and understand business operations.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Gaining insights into buying, merchandising, and marketing functions to develop a holistic understanding of the product lifecycle and business strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges within a supportive and growing company. The challenges inherent in product development for competitive markets are balanced by clear avenues for professional growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a product you designed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and results).

• "How do you stay updated on fashion and lifestyle market trends, and how do you incorporate them into your designs?" (Demonstrate market awareness and trend translation skills).

• "Walk me through your process for creating technical specifications. What details are crucial for ensuring a quality product?" (Highlight your attention to detail and understanding of manufacturing requirements).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton specifically?" (Research the brands, their aesthetic, and recent collections).

• "How do you approach collaboration with buying and marketing teams?" (Showcase your understanding of cross-functional teamwork).

• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment." (Relate to the company's described culture).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Diverse Examples: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your range, technical skills (Adobe Suite, tech packs), and understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the brief, your creative process, design decisions, challenges, solutions, and final outcome. Use compelling visuals.

• Emphasize Key Skills: Explicitly point out instances where you demonstrated technical specification creation, sample review, packaging design, or trend integration.

• Highlight Brand Fit: Explain how your designs align with the "affordable luxury" positioning of Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, technical execution, and how you would improve upon existing designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both creative talent and a pragmatic, process-driven approach to product development, with a clear understanding of the commercial realities of the fashion and lifestyle industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Midweight Product Designer position:

• Submit your application, including your CV and a link to your online portfolio, through the provided careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, technical specification creation, and end-to-end product development for fashion or lifestyle products. Include examples of packaging design and any relevant market trend analysis.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Product Design," "Adobe Creative Suite," "Technical Specifications," "Sample Review," "Packaging Design," and "Product Development." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and how your work aligns with the "affordable luxury" brand aesthetic. Prepare to present your portfolio with confidence and clarity.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton, understanding their brand identities, target audiences, and recent product lines. Be ready to discuss what excites you about working for these specific brands.

⚠️ 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.