Clothing managers plan, organize, coordinate and control the production of clothing in a factory.
Clothing managers are responsible for production planning and control. They ensure that high standards of quality are met and that clothes are supplied on time and within cost constraints. They liaise with other functional managers on issues such as: design, marketing, finance and human resources. They check that workers follow instructions and work according to the production plan and to deadlines.
They need to have a thorough knowledge of the processes, techniques and skills required and are always looking for ways to improve existing systems and production processes.
Clothing managers need to ensure that materials and accessories are ordered and received on time. They may also be involved in work-study, production, cutting, quality control, administration, management, marketing and distribution.
Satisfying Aspects
- working with people in a creative environment
- challenge of meeting deadlines successfully
- the large variety of activities
Demanding aspects
- stress, working to deadlines
- responsibility of keeping costs down and productivity up
- possible strikes in the industry
Requirements
A clothing manager should:
- be creative, imaginative and have artistic talent;
- have technical skills;
- be persistent, self-confident and persuasive;
- get along well with others;
- be patient, tactful and observant;
- have good judgement and business sense.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Visual Arts, Economics, Consumer Studies
Training
Diploma: BTech and N.Dip. Clothing Management offered at UJ, CPUT, and DUT.
Certificate: At FET?Colleges
Applicants have to undergo a selection procedure. The principle underlying the course is to provide students with a sound foundation in management in the clothing industry. The structure of the course enables students to understand the total business cycle of the industry together with the technology required to support the business function.
Employer
- Clothing factories
- Fashion houses and exclusive shops
- Clothing chain stores
- Self-employment, with the necessary experience and capital, start own clothing manufacturing company