Alan Barbour graduated from Gray’s School of Art in 2002 and is now working as a Knitwear Design Manager for Burberry in London. His job sounds like a retail addicts dream; although he has stressed that it is also hard work!

"I head up casual knitwear design and development for Burberry which can get quite crazy. Managing a small team of designers, we create the collection for both women and menswear. My role covers all aspects of product development, from the design concept right through to production of the product. I regularly travel around the globe visiting manufacturers and conducting research to inspire and inform the collection.

"My lifestyle sounds very glamorous and I love it, but it can be exhausting too! No two days are ever the same and I have to be a strong manager, developing vibrant team players both creatively and vocationally."

At university Alan knew he wanted to work in the fashion industry and focussed on knitwear in his final year. Alan's big break came when Gap invited him to join their new design team in London in 2007. At Gap, he worked in a similar role, gaining essential experience and skills that opened the door to Burberry.

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