Product Development Assistant - Accessories

ABOUT REFY

We are simplifying beauty. We’re committed to creating products and a community that inspire you to be your most confident self.

You’ll be part of a team that leads with authenticity and is empowered to shape the way we operate, creating an environment that reflects our shared values and aspirations.

We’re always vegan, cruelty and fragrance free and proud to be Leaping Bunny certified. Join us on an exciting journey to cut through an overwhelming market and create products and world-first formulas, that give our customers what they need and want simplified.

Acknowledged by The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 & 2025.

THE ROLE

REFY is seeking a highly organised and creative Product Development Assistant to join our fast-growing, forward-thinking NPD team.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience across the full product development lifecycle.

The PD Assistant will support the team in delivering innovative, trend-led products across a diverse range of categories including accessories, textile-based merchandise, PR boxes, GWP’s, and product exclusives.

This is a collaborative role, working closely with key departments such as NPD, Brand Marketing, PR, Creative and Retail, contributing to innovative high-impact launches.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the Product Design & Development team in the creation of accessories, GWP items, exclusive products, PR boxes, branded merchandise, and campaign-related items.
• Assist with trend and material research across fashion, beauty, interiors, packaging, and lifestyle to support concept development and product inspiration.
• Help prepare design and development briefs and specification documents, ensuring key information is gathered and shared with suppliers and factories.
• Assist in managing product samples, tracking their status, organising reviews, and compiling sample feedback with guidance from the team.
• Work closely with the Product Designer to support the development of mockups, prototypes, and mood boards.
• Help maintain and update tech packs, ensuring they reflect the latest sample revisions and comments.
• Assist on fast-paced development timelines and respond to evolving project priorities ensuring communication and escalated to the appropriate team.
• Attend trade shows (UK and international, where relevant) alongside team members to learn about new suppliers, materials, and trends.
• Support the organisation of design files, swatches, materials, and sample archives.
• Work cross-functionally with the Creative, Brand, and Community teams to ensure products align with PR & campaign needs and customer insight.
• Assist with cost tracking and supplier communication, helping compile pricing information and alternatives.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE

• A keen interest in beauty, fashion, interior and lifestyle trends.
• Art and design related degree and/or experience in a design or product development related role.
• Good organisational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritise.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across departments and external partners.
• Ability to work in a reactive, fast-paced development environment.
• The ability to problem solve and use initiative.
• A can do attitude and responsive approach.
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (especially Illustrator, Photoshop)
• Confidence using Microsoft Office / Google Workspace (Excel, Sheets, Docs, etc.).

Nice to have:

• Knowledge of production processes, sampling, and working with suppliers and factories.
• Knowledge of fabric and trim terminology and how fabrics perform.
• 1 year industry experience.

BENEFITS

• 25+ Days Holiday: Start with 25, earn one for every year's service (up to 5)
• Extra Holidays: Option to buy up to 5 additional days.
• Community First Day: A day to support a cause you love.
• Bonus Scheme: Rewards for your hard work and success.
• Family Leave: Enhanced support for new parents.
• EV Scheme: Drive electric with salary sacrifice options.
• Financial Coaching: Guidance to boost your money mindset.
• Flexible Religious Holidays: Flexibility to honour days that matter to you.
• Flexible Working: Flexi start and finish times with the option to work one day per week from home.
• REFY Product Perks: Annual allowance + exclusive discounts.
• Regular Social Events: Team-Building days and seasonal parties.
• Career Growth: Tailored training and development opportunities.
• Vitality Health Insurance: Health coverage with added benefits.

WHAT MAKES US 'REFY'

Aspirational Yet Understated: We are an aspirational brand and workforce that pushes boundaries and disrupts the market in an understated way.

Community First: We prioritise community and collaboration.

Lead Don't Follow: We champion innovation and initiative, creating an environment where people are empowered to lead and bring ideas to the table.

Live. Laugh. Love: We believe in fostering a positive and enjoyable work environment, promoting a healthy work-life balance and encouraging laughter and love along the way.

Your Most Confident Self: We believe in empowering our team members to bring their most confident and authentic selves to work.

REFY are committed to fostering a workplace culture that embraces diversity and promotes inclusion. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees, workers and job applicants regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability or age, or pregnancy. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels confident and empowered to lead with their ideas and contribute a unique perspective.