Product Development Manager (Handlooms)

Brand: Shrekahnth (www.shrekahnth.com)

Location: Atelier Vendome Paris, Madhavaram Handloom Cluster, near Vontimitta, Kadapa

Type: Full-time, On-ground

Language Requirement: Fluent Telugu (mandatory)

Education Preference: IIHT Venkatagiri graduates highly preferred

Atelier Vendome Paris is establishing a dedicated Fashion Design Studio for shrekahnth in the Madhavaram handloom cluster to revive heritage weaving and create new product lines in scarves, handloom western clothing, textiles, accessories, and technical woven prototypes.

We are looking for a Product Development Manager who can lead technical development directly at the loom level and manage the day-to-day activities of the cluster.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Raw Material Procurement & Allocation

• Coordinate with yarn suppliers, zari manufacturers, dye houses, and accessory vendors.
• Manage inventory, storage, and material tracking.
• Oversee logistics for timely movement of yarns, dyes, trims, and other inputs.
• Ensure quality assurance and material inspection before production.

2. Production Planning & Monitoring

• Develop sampling plans, production timelines, and loom scheduling.
• Convert design concepts into technical inputs, punch cards, CAD sheets, and weaving drafts.
• Make necessary loom-setting changes (reed/count adjustments, jamdani, dobby/jacquard configurations) based on design.
• Select the right weavers for each design development.
• Create a strong feedback loop between design, weavers, and management.
• Track production progress and ensure deadlines are met.

3. Design Development

• Support the creation of scarves, handloom western clothing, and textiles.
• Provide technical and design inputs for prototypes.
• Execute samples and design trials on various looms.
• Work closely with the design and R&D teams of Atelier Vendome Paris.

4. Daily Cluster Operations

• Oversee day-to-day functioning of the Madhavaram atelier.
• Handle miscellaneous operational needs within the cluster.
• Coordinate with government stakeholders such as NITI Aayog, Handloom Department, District Administration, and local bodies.
• Maintain documentation, reporting, and communication for ongoing projects.

MANDATORY SKILLS

• Strong knowledge of reeds, counts, EPI/PPI, yarn behavior.
• Practical experience with pit looms, frame looms, dobby, jacquard and Jamdani.
• Understanding of pure zari, half-fine zari, tested zari.
• Ability to work directly with weavers and troubleshoot loom issues.
• Fluent Telugu (essential for ground coordination).
• Comfortable living and working on-site in a weaving village.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

• A technically strong professional who respects traditional craftsmanship but can drive modern product development. 
• IIHT Venkatagiri graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.

To Apply:

• Email: info@shrekahnth.com