The Production Manager will be the operational backbone of Jaey's manufacturing process, overseeing end-to-end production from material sourcing to final shipment. This role requires someone who can seamlessly manage vendor relationships, ensure quality standards, meet aggressive timelines, and optimize costs - all while maintaining the creative integrity of our designs.
Key Responsibilities
Production Planning & Execution
- Lead complete production cycle: cutting, sewing, washing, finishing, packaging, and shipment
- Create and maintain daily/weekly production schedules aligned with launch calendars and sales forecasts
- Coordinate pre-production meetings with design, merchandising, and QA teams for each new style
- Manage sampling process and bulk production approvals
- Ensure on-time delivery for all product launches (critical during peak periods like JaeyDay sales)
Vendor & Supply Chain Management
- Build and manage relationships with fabric mills, trim manufacturers, and production units
- Negotiate pricing, lead times, and payment terms to optimize margins without compromising quality
- Conduct regular vendor audits and performance reviews
- Coordinate material procurement ensuring timely availability in correct quantities
- Develop backup vendor network to mitigate supply chain risks
Quality Control
- Implement and monitor quality checkpoints across all production stages
- Conduct incoming material inspections and final product audits
- Ensure all garments meet Jaey's quality standards and specifications
- Address and resolve quality issues proactively during production
- Maintain quality documentation and defect tracking
Cost Management & Optimization
- Drive cost-saving initiatives while maintaining product integrity
- Work closely with founder/finance team on production budgeting and cost analysis
- Identify inefficiencies in manufacturing processes and implement improvements
- Manage production expenses and ensure adherence to approved budgets
- Analyze and report on production metrics (cost per unit, wastage, efficiency)
Inventory & Documentation
- Oversee raw material and finished goods inventory management
- Maintain accurate production records, BOMs (Bill of Materials), and technical specifications
- Track production data using spreadsheets/production management tools
- Generate regular production reports and forecasts
Team Coordination
- Act as primary liaison between design, sales, marketing, and external production teams
- Coordinate with digital marketing team during high-volume campaigns (given Jaey's significant ad spend)
- Manage production-related communications and problem escalations
- Train and develop any junior production staff as team scales
Must-Have Qualifications
Experience
- 2-4 years in apparel production/manufacturing
- Proven track record managing production for D2C or retail fashion brands
- Experience handling production volumes of 500+ pieces per style
- Direct experience working with Indian garment manufacturers
Technical Skills
- Deep understanding of garment construction, fabrics, and print techniques
- Knowledge of production processes: cutting, stitching, washing, finishing
- Proficiency in costing, sampling, and bulk production workflows
- Strong Excel skills for production planning, tracking, and analysis
- Familiarity with production management software (bonus)
Soft Skills
- Exceptional organizational and time management abilities
- Strong negotiation skills with vendors and suppliers
- Problem-solving mindset with ability to work under pressure
- Excellent communication skills across all organizational levels
- Detail-oriented with commitment to quality
Preferred Qualifications
- B.Sc./B.Des in Fashion Technology, Textile Engineering, or related field
- Experience with export-oriented apparel manufacturing
- Knowledge of compliance standards (ESIC, PF, labor laws) in manufacturing context
- Understanding of sustainable production practices
- Prior startup/fast-paced environment experience
What Makes You Stand Out
- Self-starter who can operate independently with minimal supervision
- Thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments with changing priorities
- Passionate about fashion and staying updated on industry trends
- Data-driven approach to decision-making
- Ability to balance multiple collections and production runs simultaneously
- Network of reliable vendors/manufacturers in apparel industry
Location
Tilak Nagar (Kurla East, Mumbai)
Reporting Structure
Reports directly to: Founder Works closely with: Design Team, Marketing Team, Sales/Customer Success
Why Join Jaey
- Be part of a rapidly scaling fashion brand with aggressive growth targets
- Direct impact on product quality and customer satisfaction
- Work closely with founder on strategic production decisions
- Opportunity to build and optimize production systems from ground up
- Dynamic environment where your ideas and improvements are valued