Take a look below at a selection of the top talent we are proactively working with right now.
Talent Spotlight
The right talent
Overview:
Immediately available following a tenure of over 25 years with one employer.
Immediately available following a tenure of over 25 years with one employer.
Steady progression from Development Engineer to Technical Manager to Plant Manager to Director and an earlier career in production management in a spinning environment.
This candidate has extensive experience in product development, process improvement and quality and has managed teams across the technical function including laboratory and testing.
Why are they great?
• BSc Textile Studies
• Technical Textile manufacturing experience across – automotive, technical flooring, yarn processing and chemicals
• Key member of the LEAN Management Team
• Project management
• Overseas travel to visit suppliers of raw materials – full supply chain management
• Extensive experience of product development and trials of prototypes following research and development
• Wet and dry processing experience and knowledge
What are they looking for?
• Happy to discuss any vacancies open in the senior leadership team
• A reputable and values driven business
Overview
-A performance-driven leader with massive experience across the UK, Ireland and the rest of the world.
-Proven success in turning around poor performing businesses.
-Introduction of technological systems to generate cost efficiencies.
-Achieved 100% capability growth in less than 2 years in a fully operational factory.
-Well versed in QA, QC, Operations and Logistics.
-Is a strategic planner with high level of commercial awareness.
-30 years experience in textiles with vertical knowledge; predominantly in clothing / apparel but has hands-on experience across the whole manufacturing process.
-Incredibly passionate about textiles, this candidate is looking for a challenging environment where he can make an impact.
-Open to General Manager, Operations Manager, Operations Director level roles.
Overview
We’re currently working with a dynamic professional who seamlessly blends their engineering expertise with high level operational leadership. They display exceptional career progression, starting early as a project manager, moving up to Head of Technical Sales, MD, Director and most recently COO.
They come with a diverse skill set and extensive knowledge and experience in supply-chain, finance, HR, project management, production, engineering, R&D and sales and marketing.
They excel in managing complex projects and has a proven track record in aligning production processes with broader strategic goals. Their calm approach and technical background allow them to identify opportunities for continuous improvement, manage risks and implement solutions. Making them a key asset to any business.
Why are they great?
• A product-focused leader, looking to add value, strengthen operations and drive sustainable growth.
• Proven track record of helping companies improve their operations, processes, profitability and manufacturing procedures.
• Extensive knowledge of lean principles
• Ability to pivot when needed-without losing sight of the job at hand.
• Supportive, team-first approach and likes to empower those around him.
• Streamlined operations to reduce waste and improved productivity by 30%
• Overhauled procurement processes bringing lead times down by 10 weeks and better cash-flow into the business.
• Developed and implemented a robust risk management framework to deter any potential threats.
What are they looking for next?
Immediately available to start.
They are looking for a senior leadership role in a business where they can add value, strengthen operations and drive sustainable growth
Overview
A highly experienced, manufacturing focused business leader based in Greater Manchester with extensive experience in textile manufacturing. With over 25 years in board level positions and has a powerhouse of knowledge supplying to automotive, apparel and home textile sectors.
They come from a strong manufacturing and with strong financial acumen, having spent 6 years managing production facilities in the Far East with full P&L responsibility, budgeting and forecasting, strategic planning, recruitment, procurement and driving efficiency through lean manufacturing.
Why are they great?
• Over 25 years in board level roles.
• Held leadership roles in major global organisations and SME turnaround operations.
• Managing teams from 60 to 600 people, they have led businesses through tough economic times as well as periods of substantial growth and expansion.
• Experience of wet processing, spinning, twisting and sewing.
• Has shown outstanding loyalty and longevity in all their roles.
More than just experience, they bring leadership, vision and the ability to really make an impact.
If you'd like to find out more, call us today on 0161 883 2126.
Overview
A competent and driven Sales Director with almost 20 years’ experience in the textile manufacturing industry. Their earlier career was spent predominantly in print.
They've built up a strong portfolio of high-profile and high-value customers in the retail, wholesale and manufacturing sectors.
A competent and driven Sales Director with almost 20 years’ experience in the textile manufacturing industry. Their earlier career was spent predominantly in print.
They've built up a strong portfolio of high-profile and high-value customers in the retail, wholesale and manufacturing sectors.
In their words: “the secret to sales, is common sense”.
Why are they great?
- P&L, budget and strategy management for a £20m T/O business
- Has created full UK and Export sales strategy for a company turning over £200m
- A respected man-manager who likes for their team to have autonomy
What are they looking for?
An employer who offers a great culture and environment
Seeking a similar role as Sales Director / Commercial Director – also open to MD positions in an SME
Based in Greater Manchester – happy for fully remote anywhere in the UK or onsite around Manchester, Lancashire or Cheshire.
If you'd like to know more get in touch with us today on 0161 883 2126.
Overview
We’re representing a strong Operations Manager / Director with a production bias. With an excellent knowledge of chemicals and wet processing from current and past roles, they have also managed weaving shed staff. Very much a hands-on manager, used to running multiple shift patterns and has worked night shifts when necessary to make sure it’s running efficiently and that the right people are in place.
Why are they great?
Some notable skills and achievements are:
• Full P&L and budgetary responsibilities.
• Implementation of new QMS.
• Key project manager in development of a new building extension.
• Transformed an ageing demographic by meticulous succession planning to achieve operational excellence.
• Trained and qualified to ISO 50001 standards.
• Oversaw the implementation and project management of several CapEx investments including the build of a new warehouse.
• Reduced the cost of departmental wastage by over £1m.
• Controlled a £15m department budget and reduced the monthly labour costs by £100k.
• Came up through engineering so has a good understanding of machinery.
What are they looking for now
Looking for Operations Manager or Director roles around Greater Manchester, Lancashire and West Yorkshire.
Can interview and commence a new role immediately.
Overview
A proven leader in technical innovation, compliance, and sustainable product development, bringing over 30 years of experience across global supply chains, retail, and manufacturing.
With a sharp technical mindset and hands-on leadership style, they have delivered results across product quality, fit innovation, and CSR strategy. They’re known for aligning fast-moving businesses with evolving global standards - reducing costs, improving returns rates, and driving supplier accountability.
Why are they great?
Led global audit programmes, created full quality policy suites, and ensured compliance with GOTS, GRS, and OCS certifications—achieving zero non-conformities.
Delivered product improvements that cut return rates by nearly 3%, saving over £470k across two seasons.
Introduced 3D sampling tech and sizing platforms, driving consistency and speed while saving millions.
Directly managed cross-functional teams in the UK and India, creating a high-performing culture focused on quality, compliance, and innovation.
Developed a master fit block library saving £2.2M
Initiated SEDEX Partnership, streamlining ethical auditing and improving compliance through monitoring and remediation.
What are they looking for now?
This candidate is passionate, forward-thinking, and ready to make a strategic impact in a leadership role focused on sustainability, compliance, and innovation in clothing & apparel across retail and supply.
Available now for senior roles across textiles, retail, and technical product development.
Overview
An experienced Director / Operations Manager from the technical textiles industry with a background in NPD, Quality and Commercial they are seeking a long-term role where they can commit, "warts and all" to making a difference in your business.
This candidate is highly experienced in identifying growth opportunities and working to increase revenue substantially.
Following redundancy in 2024, they are now actively looking to get back in to full time employment whether that is onsite 5 days (if in West Yorkshire) or hybrid (anywhere else). This candidate will be an asset to whichever business they join whether in person or remotely.
Why are they great?
• MSc Advanced Textile Technology
• ILM and LEAN 6 SIXMA trained & certified
• Over 6 years experience in developing new finishes for fabrics sold to the luxury textiles market including organic (GOTS certified) and durable waterproofing
• Created a new costing matrix resulting in the negotiation of a 40% price increase on a product which was running at a loss
• Established a new product category which brought in an additional £6m in revenue
• Monthly P&L analysis
What are they looking for next
Open to discussing Director or SLT level roles with a technical focus.
Loves involvement in product development.
A big "people-person" they are looking for a role which has staff management.
Overall ambition to become an MD in the future.
Resides in West Yorkshire but open to location - if outside of the local area, a hybrid role would be needed.
In their own words, they are "great at winning hearts and minds" when it comes to business propositions and improvements.
If you'd like to know more, give us a call today on 0161 883 2126.
Overview
We’re excited to shine a light on this standout candidate with 25 years of experience in the textile finishing & print industry.
Extremely motivated, loyal and efficient, they are a true expert in product development, digital print and customer relationship management.
Known for their can-do attitude, creativity and reliability, they bring a unique blend of technical know-how and commercial insight.
Why are they great.
• BA (hons) in Fashion Design
• ILM NVQ 3 Certificate in Management.
• City & Guilds Level 3 in manufacturing Textiles
• FTCC Foundation Textile Coloration Certificate (Distinction)
• Successfully launched a textile digital print machine, securing over £1 million in investment.
• Played a key role in the business turnaround, developing new product lines and market opportunities.
• With their operational leadership skills, they are highly experienced in managing production processes, teams and tight deadlines.
What are they looking for now?
With a passion for continuous improvement and a wealth of industry knowledge, this professional is ready to take on a new challenge and make a significant impact in a technical role which has exposure to products and customers.
Overview
A highly experienced business leader with many years experience of successful realignment and transformation across a number of sectors including textiles and general manufacturing.
A highly experienced business leader with many years experience of successful realignment and transformation across a number of sectors including textiles and general manufacturing.
Why are they great?
• Successfully transformed an iconic brand to achieve double figures on growth within thier short tenure.
• Full P&L management of £multi-million turnover sites.
• Strives for high-achievement across all departments of a business.
• Following a review of manufacturing methods, they reduced stock hold by 80%.
• Following a period of transition, was instrumental in a £75m t/o manufacturer turning a profit for the first time in almost a decade.
What are they looking for?
• A salary of £130k+
• A business who accepts they need change and who will support key business decisions to enable transformation.
• Looking for roles as MD, CEO, Transformation Manager, Consultant
Overview
A strategic, international Business Development Manager. They have a full book of business and a huge customer base in EMEA.
Why are they great?
• Over 15 years solid experience in selling technical texile products internationally
• Secured contracts up to the value of $80m
• Highly experienced in flame-retardant and flame-resistant processes, coatings and products
• Sold in to architects, construction firms and distributors as well as retailers, wholesalers, resellers and manufacturers
• Developed a multitude of textile products including PPE, Protective Clothing, Automotive, Workwear and Industrial (to name a few!)
What are they looking for?
• Ideally an international role but will consider an interesting UK focused position
• Looking for roles as Senior Sales Manager, Area Sales Manager or Regional Sales Manager
Overview
A seasoned Senior Technologist with over 15 years experience in the clothing & apparel sector. Seeking a step up in to a more challenging environment where they can make an impact.
Why are they great?
• Technically strong in compliance and quality of garments.
• Currently mentors 2 Junior Technologists.
• Qualified in Social Systems Auditor/lead Auditor Training Course, CQI/IRCA from SGS
• Extensive understanding of testing and chemical REACH testing
• Approval of lab dips, trims, bulk fabrics, weights, wash cares, test reports and FRI inspections
What are they looking for?
• A step up to QC Manager / Team Leader / Supervisor
• A role which is heavy on compliance - they love it!
• Open to a move from fashion to homewares or something more technical.
Overview
An exceptional senior sales professional selling home textiles products into major retailers. With a wealth of experience developing, and managing major customer accounts, they would be an asset to the growth of any textile’s organisation.
An exceptional senior sales professional selling home textiles products into major retailers. With a wealth of experience developing, and managing major customer accounts, they would be an asset to the growth of any textile’s organisation.
Why are they great?
• A previous owner of their own business, whereby they built and managed a company with a £5m turnover and 70 employees. Which demonstrates not only their ability to create something successful but also provides them with a deeper understanding of business management.
• Having began their career in Dyeing and Finishing as an apprentice dyer, they were able to gain a good technical understanding of fabrics that they were able to utilize moving into a career in sales.
• Holds a Marketing and Textile technology diploma degree.
• They bring a wealth of knowledge and contacts along with them, as they have forged some excellent relationships over the years with customers and suppliers.
• A warming and friendly persona with a professional and articulate knowledge on textiles.
What are they looking for?
A business that could utilise their skills and knowledge, a business in which they can make significant contributions from a sales perspective and stay with for many years.
Overview
A phenomenal Head of Retail Merchandising who is very committed to their employer.
Having been with their most recent employer for the last 10 years, they are facing redundancy and effectively immediately available.
Why are they great?
• 25 years’ experience in head office retail merchandising.
• Financially astute with the ability to build real-time budgets and forecasts.
• Consistent YOY sales and margin growth within European entities, whilst improving retail stock turn and availability. “A line” availability of 98%! Highlighting trends in season, using WSSIs, flexing OTB and trading while maximising profit.
• Pioneering “drop ship” category in the business which led to 100% category sales growth, while allowing to reduce overall inventory.
• Built a merchandising team from scratch and restructured the purchasing department, introducing industry standard processes and procedures to give them and the business better visibility to assist with trading the retail entities more effectively.
• Experience spans across footwear, apparel, fancy dress / party goods, and premium brands.
• Not adverse to overseas travel.
What people say:
Managing Director – “XXXX is so knowledgeable and eats, sleeps and breathes everything merchandise focused. A real team player – the biggest supporter of their team! Very passionate in what they do and they love the business as if it’s their own”.
What are they looking for?
Ideal roles are Head of Merchandising; however, their MD feels they’re ready for a step up to Director of Merchandising in the right business.
What matters most to this candidate is culture and environment; somewhere they can stay for a long time.
Overview
A phenomenal Head of Retail Merchandising who is very committed to their employer.
Having been with their most recent employer for the last 10 years, they are facing redundancy and effectively immediately available.
Why are they great?
• 25 years’ experience in head office retail merchandising.
• Financially astute with the ability to build real-time budgets and forecasts.
• Consistent YOY sales and margin growth within European entities, whilst improving retail stock turn and availability. “A line” availability of 98%! Highlighting trends in season, using WSSIs, flexing OTB and trading while maximising profit.
• Pioneering “drop ship” category in the business which led to 100% category sales growth, while allowing to reduce overall inventory.
• Built a merchandising team from scratch and restructured the purchasing department, introducing industry standard processes and procedures to give them and the business better visibility to assist with trading the retail entities more effectively.
• Experience spans across footwear, apparel, fancy dress / party goods, and premium brands.
• Not adverse to overseas travel.
What people say:
Managing Director – “XXXX is so knowledgeable and eats, sleeps and breathes everything merchandise focused. A real team player – the biggest supporter of their team! Very passionate in what they do and they love the business as if it’s their own”.
What are they looking for?
Ideal roles are Head of Merchandising; however, their MD feels they’re ready for a step up to Director of Merchandising in the right business.
What matters most to this candidate is culture and environment; somewhere they can stay for a long time.
Let’s talk
Our experts are on hand to guide you every step of the way. You can easily reach us through our contact form, phone or email.
Phone: +44 (0) 161 883 2126
Email: info@bowmay.co.uk