Alexandra Ward
Newcastle upon Tyne
Summary
Reliable and thoughtful creative professional with 6+ years of experience across product development, supplier communication, and creative operations. I thrive in independent roles or small teams, where I can contribute meaningfully and build connections. With a strong background and passion for creative industries, I'm looking to apply my skills in a more purposeful way - supporting local businesses, community-focused organisations, or cultural projects. While I prefer structured and focused environments, I'm also experienced working to deadlines and managing pressure calmly when needed.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Menswear Technical Assistant
J. Barbour & Sons Ltd
06.2021 - Current
- Manage special make-up (SMU) product requests from concept through to pre-production, acting as a steady, reliable point of contact for suppliers and internal teams
- Help interpret customer ideas alongside designers, choosing appropriate fabrics, trims, and blocks
- Create and send tech packs, track samples, review lab dips and fabrics, and manage fit comments with accuracy and care
- Maintain detailed product information in the PLM system, ensuring data is always correct for each style
- Assist with seasonal launches and events, keeping samples organised and presentation-ready
- Work closely with designers and supply teams, while remaining confident managing solo responsibilities.
Garment Technical Assistant
Bebe Clothing
02.2019 - 05.2020
- Assisted in production processes at a clothing supplier, managing fit comments and tracking submissions
- Checked size specs and measurement sheets, and updated technical documentation for each style
- Communicated daily with overseas suppliers to clarify product changes and sample issues
- Helped manage approvals and samples throughout development stages
- Worked closely with internal teams to ensure accuracy and timely delivery.
Design Assistant
Fat Face
Portsmouth
09.2017 - 02.2019
- Supported designers across menswear and boyswear categories from concept to production handover
- Created and updated tech packs, CADs, and spec sheets using Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop
- Assisted in range planning, print and fabric selection, and presentations for seasonal sign-offs
- Managed sample tracking and supplier correspondence, ensuring accurate follow-ups and deadlines
- Supported fittings and updated fit comments and measurements for ongoing product refinement
- Contributed design input where appropriate while supporting the daily operational flow of the team.
- Conducted trend research to support innovative design ideas and themes.
Production Assistant
Popaball
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Worked on a small team producing food and drink products in a fast-paced start-up environment
- Helped operate production machinery, managed packaging and sealing, and maintained hygiene standards
- Took part in product testing and enjoyed contributing practical ideas in a hands-on setting.
Studio and Events Assistant
Northern, Festival
Newcastle upon Tyne
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Helped run a local creative studio and regional design festival supporting North East makers and artists
- Organised communications with designers, coordinated events and exhibitions, and handled logistics
- Created marketing materials including signage, and wrote copy for exhibitions and events
- Enjoyed working in a small, creative team and contributing to events with a strong community focus
- Supported installs, outreach, and day-to-day admin.
- Facilitated volunteer recruitment and management for festival operations.
- Greeted visitors, clients and guests in a professional manner.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Design & Marketing
Northumbria University
Newcastle Upon Tyne05-2017
Skills
- Microsoft office Suite & Google workspace
- Adobe packages (Illustrator/Photoshop/Indesign)
- Tech Pack Creation & Review
- Sample, Fabric & BOM Tracking
- File Management, & Internal Database, Product Life Cycle Management
- Trend Research
- Effective communication with internal teams and external vendors/customers
- Production co-ordination
- Operations support and office administration
- Working in small teams or focused environments
- Event organisation
- Marketing assistance
- Data entry
Timeline
Menswear Technical Assistant
J. Barbour & Sons Ltd
06.2021 - Current
Garment Technical Assistant
Bebe Clothing
02.2019 - 05.2020
Design Assistant
Fat Face
09.2017 - 02.2019
Production Assistant
Popaball
01.2015 - 01.2017
Studio and Events Assistant
Northern, Festival
01.2015 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Design & Marketing
Northumbria University
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