Product Development Manager

JOB OVERVIEW

This position requires coordination between Development, Planning, Merchandising and Design departments in a design driven atmosphere. Applicant must be technically competent and have a detailed understanding of the manufacturing processes for a diverse range of product types. Applicant must be able to develop and manage vendor partnerships effectively, be self-sufficient and work with little or no supervision. Applicant will continuously evaluate alternate materials and technology to Innovate and Elevate, ensuring continued market leadership of the brand. The Product Development Manager will collaborate with Design, Merchandising, Development, Sourcing, and Suppliers to support programs’ fabric & trim objectives within the product lifecycle management framework.

This role reports to the Director, Product Development- Soft Goods and is located in Irvine, CA.

As the Product Development Manager; you will have the opportunity to:

· Drive the raw material management process for assigned products, with an emphasis on performance, and quality product development within the applicable calendar.

· Builds working relationship with Design, Sourcing and Merchandising to proactively manage the fabric and trim requirements relative to manufacturability, performance, quality, cost, lead-times and minimums.

· Provide options for injecting newness into ongoing programs by researching innovative fibers, new technologies, and finishing techniques, etc. that can add value to current collections.

· Communicate directly with fabric vendors and mills to guide development process.

· Ensure all development documentation is maintained for assigned trims/fabric, fit and design comments

· Obtain quotes from suppliers, manage requirements, and negotiate pricing.

· Communicate information and any issues to all related internal parties as well as to overseas mills and suppliers..

· Coordinate internal proto reviews with cross functional teams

· Negotiate costing with mills and suppliers to exceed margin expectations and maximize profit. Work closely with Development and Sourcing to ensure that seasonal margin goals are met.

· Leverage volume and reduction of raw materials to gain profitable bulk costing

• You have:
• College degree in Apparel/Material Sourcing/Development preferred but not required
• 7+ years’ apparel / raw materials experience required with some exposure to Performance Product/fabrics
• Strong Product Development background
• International business travel experience required.
• Previous experience working with overseas mills, suppliers and manufacturers is required.
• Strong knowledge of fabrics, trims and technologies relevant to lifestyle apparel with some performance knowledge.
• Proficient in understanding fabric properties (knit and woven) and effects of wash techniques in finished garments.
• Strong understanding of design, development and merchandising process from inception through production.
• Understanding of sourcing and cost negotiation skills.
• Strong knowledge of product manufacturing techniques, fabrications and embellishments.
• Ability to interpret design intent and offer alternative solutions; high aesthetic taste level.
• Ability to work well under pressure, to anticipate and trouble shoot issues of consequence to quality and delivery with ease.
• Effective communication, organization, problem solving skills and detail oriented.
• Self-starter, team player, strong follow up skills, and sense of urgency.  Must be deadline oriented.
• Strong computer skills including Excel, Word, MS Outlook, Illustrator, PLM systems.
• Working knowledge of fabric utilization, yields and consumption in apparel manufacturing.

Pay Range:

The actual annual salary offered to a candidate will be based on variables including experience, geographic location, education, and skills/achievements, and will be mutually agreed upon at the time of offer.

We offer a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including: medical and dental, vision, disability and life insurance, 401K, PTO, paid holidays, gear discounts and the ability to add value to an exciting mission!

Our Postings are not intended for distribution to or use in any jurisdiction, country or territory where such distribution or use would violate local law or would subject us to any regulations in another jurisdiction, country or territory. We reserve the right to limit our Postings in any jurisdiction, country or territory.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veteran/Disabled