Rachel Koester: Production Manager

Responsible for managing all aspects of development and production consisting of prototyping, sourcing, knitting, dyeing, cutting, trimming, sewing and embellishing. Lead in scheduling the factory's calendar by priority and capacity per month. Finalize all lab dips, trims, fit samples and strike-offs with customers. Calculate and process all fabric orders from yarn to finished goods. Conduct daily production team meetings to implement schedule and resolve issues. Generate detailed cost sheets in order to negotiate competitive and fair quotes to clients. Tactfully delegate datawork and processing throughout the team. Implement new processes for the team during a company transition period to maintain demanding schedules and new clients. Lead weekly meetings with updated WIP reports with vendors and buyers.

Oversee the entire production process from conception to completion, working devotedly with buyers, design teams and manufacturers to ensure quality, aesthetic, cost and delivery expectations. Strategically issue and track all purchase orders, sample requests, lab dips and additional development to control an aggressive timeline. Negotiate vendor capacity, resolve production plan issues and accommodate chase buys. Lead weekly meetings with updated WIP reports with vendors and buyers. Conduct detailed fit sessions. Hire, train & mentor the production assistants. Coordinate & lead in-house production strategy meetings.

Research and contact prospective vendors that can accomplish the company’s technical and aesthetic design goals. Assess opportunities and drawbacks with discovered manufacturers in order to develop valuable partnerships. Collaborate with owner/designer to develop and refine a final collection while maintaining the production schedule and budget.

Conducted in-person fittings for tailored men’s shirting. Provided customers with on-location and remote style advise for selecting fabrication, colors, detailing and complete outfits. Maintained strong customer relationships and expanded business through customer referrals.

Organized and coordinated events from development to execution for an array of clients. Prepared all details including layout design, AV requirements, linen, menu selections, schedules and more. Managed tight budgets through strict decision making and creativity.

Acted as co-buyer and production coordinator, responsible for seeking out manufacturers at abroad trade shows & on online look books. Initiated and maintained strong vendor relationships. Assisted in ordering, adjusting and approving all production samples between the vendors and clients. Strictly managed the collection’s budget through keen style selection and vendor negotiation.

Assistant to the owner/designer of haute couture custom made wedding gown and RTW brand. Partnered with the owner on illustrating, pattern-making and sewing new designs. Responsible for conducting consultations and fit sessions with private clients. Prepared and executed photo shoots, fashion shows and special events.