Head of Custom Cycling Apparel

Reporting to: Managing DirectorDepartment: Custom ApparelType: Full-TimeLocation: London/Hybrid Role Overview:Le Col’s Custom division is dedicated to creating high-performance, fully bespoke cycling kit for teams, clubs and organisations across the world. From local club pelotons to elite racing outfits, we deliver premium apparel engineered for speed, comfort and reliability. We’re looking for a Head of Custom Cycling Apparel to lead this fast-growing part of the business end-to-end — shaping the commercial strategy, elevating product quality, guiding the team, and ensuring a seamless experience for every club and team we serve globally. This is a role for someone who thrives in a performance-focused environment and wants to drive the next phase of growth in a key strategic pillar for Le Col.Key Responsibilities:Lead and represent the Custom function across the business, acting as the central authority on all global team and club kit delivery.Work closely with kit suppliers to track order progress and provide updates to customer teams on order progress.Produce and present sales and margin performance and financial reports to the senior leadership team.Full ownership of the Custom P&L with future-orientated insights and commentary. Commercial Strategy & PerformanceOwn the Custom strategy, ensuring the division hits revenue, AOV, margin and profitability targets across all global cycling team and club channels.Analyse competitor offerings, customer expectations and market shifts within team and club kit to inform decisions.Lead new product development cycles designed specifically for team and club performance needs.Shape pricing architecture, budgeting, sales forecasting and long-range planning.Oversee fit updates, size-range structures and benchmarking to ensure Le Col remains the premium choice for Custom cycling apparel. Supplier & Production ManagementBuild and maintain strong, trusted relationships with suppliers to ensure reliability, consistent quality and fast turnaround times — essential for team and club delivery windows.Negotiate commercial terms including pricing, minimums and lead times.Monitor deliveries and R&D for Custom kit, resolving production or quality issues swiftly to protect team and club timelines.Oversee production of Marketing & Merchandise capsules.Manage sizing samples and excess inventory effectively. Account & Channel ManagementOversee direct Custom accounts, ensuring exceptional service for cycling clubs, teams, corporate partners and large-scale organisations.Manage overseas distributors, retailers and stockists, ensuring they are equipped to sell and support Custom team and club kit.Maintain accurate pricing, product information and global consistency of service. Team Leadership & DevelopmentLead, mentor and develop the Custom team, ensuring they have the tools, clarity and skills to support teams and clubs at scale.Provide coaching, training and brand-led direction.Run regular check-ins, performance reviews and development plans. Cross-Functional CollaborationWork in close partnership with internal teams including Digital, Marketing, Product and MerchandisingCoordinate website content and product updates relating to Custom, ensuring a smooth experience for clubs and teams ordering kit online.Support lead generation among cycling clubs, racing teams and partners.Provide product and audience insight to inform storytelling, case studies and campaign activity. What success looks like (KPIs)Growth of team and club Custom revenue across domestic and international markets.High customer satisfaction and long-term retention among clubs and teams worldwide.Products and capsules delivered reliably, on time and to specification.Strong supplier performance, competitive terms and improved operational efficiency.A high-performing Custom team with clear progression and alignment.Accurate forecasting, reporting and P&L stewardship.Key Qualifications and AttributesSignificant and demonstrable experience leading and managing a custom sports apparel function with particular experience managing supplier and client/team relationshipsCommercially astute and highly analyticalPassionate and personable - be an ambassador for Le Col and the cycling industry in general.Experience leading and developing a small team of supporting staff