We’re Pentland Brands; a dynamic, global family business, and proud owners and licensees of many iconic active and footwear brands. With a community of over 1,300 team members worldwide, we embrace diversity and inclusion, and champion growth and development. Our success is built on teamwork, courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

WHAT’S THE MISSION FOR THIS ROLE?

The Research & Testing Specialist is responsible for designing, coordinating and conducting research and testing programmes across a spectrum of innovation projects. You will ensure that we have the appropriate framework and protocol in place to assess whether the performance criteria have been met, to achieve our goal of creating the best products across our brands.

WHAT DOES THIS ROLE DO?

As our Research and Testing Specialist you will be responsible for:

• Liaising with external partners, companies and Universities in the delivery of research and testing activities.

• Recruiting and maintaining relationships with external athletes, clubs and experts.

• Working with the Senior Research Manager and wider Product Innovation Hub team to ensure robust testing protocols are defined and followed for all research and testing.

• Concepting new test methodologies, equipment and standards to sustain best-practice.

• Coordinating and conducting lab and field testing to support innovation projects.

• Generating test reports and disseminating findings and recommendations with stakeholders in a clear and timely manner.

• Maintaining the research and testing database.

WHAT DO I BRING TO THE ROLE?

You just might be our next superstar if you have the following skills and experience:

• Passionate about research and new product development.

• A pro-active self-starter.

• Excellent knowledge of research and testing methods and experimental design.

• Able to modify and create test protocols depending on the objectives and bounds.

• Extensive experience in coordinating and managing research and testing projects in the apparel, footwear or sports equipment industries.

• Experience in working with product users at all levels; experience working with elite athletes/coaches of additional benefit

• Proven understanding of sports technology, human physiology/biomechanics, and human factors.

• Working knowledge of apparel and equipment testing and manufacturing methods is desirable, but not essential.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

• Competitive salary + discretionary bonus

• 25 Days Holiday: Increases with length of service and the option to purchase additional days to suit your needs.

• Discounts: Brand discounts (including friends and family and JD Sports), Sample Sales, and other retail discounts and perks.

• Family-Friendly Benefits: Generous enhanced parental leave policies (including six months fully paid maternity leave)

• Health Perks: Choose from a variety of health-related perks including medical cash plan, critical illness cover, life assurance, gym and fitness discounts, dental insurance, eye care, and health screening to maintain your wellbeing.

• Travel Perks: Take advantage of our season ticket loan, cycle to work schemes, electric car schemes, and discounts on home charging units to support eco-friendly commuting.

• Flexible Working: We offer hybrid working, core office hours, and flexible working, allowing you to start your day earlier or later to help with commute costs or personal commitments.

We want you to live our company principles, bringing a strong consumer focus, while always looking for ways to improve and grow in your role. Take ownership of your work and be proactive in solving problems whilst communicating openly and treating everyone with respect and kindness. And, of course, let your creativity shine by bringing your unique style and individuality to the Pentland Brands Team.

As an equal opportunity employer, we’re committed to fostering diversity and creating an inclusive culture across our business, stores, and office environment.

We warmly welcome your application.