Director, Product Development

Job Title: Director, Product Development
Job Summary: The Director of Product Development is a seasoned professional with a minimum of 10 years of experience in product design for manufacturability within the apparel industry. This key leadership role is responsible for overseeing the entire Product Development lifecycle, from concept to production, ensuring that products are designed to meet quality standards, cost targets, and manufacturing feasibility. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to drive innovation, optimize processes, and deliver high-quality apparel products that resonate with our target audience. This is a newly created position.
Work Environment: This is a 100% in-office role - Monday through Friday. Travel of up to 25% - primarily international is required.
Essential Functions:

1. Product Development Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive Product Development strategy aligned with the company's goals and market trends.
2. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with Design, Purchasing, Marketing, ECOMM and Sourcing teams to ensure seamless communication and alignment throughout the Product Development process.
3. Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of product developers, designers, engineers and support staff to drive excellence in product design and manufacturability.
4. Product Design: Oversee the design process, ensuring that products are aesthetically appealing, functional, and manufacturable.
5. Cost Control: Monitor product costs and work closely with sourcing and production teams to achieve cost targets without compromising quality.
6. Quality Assurance: Maintain and improve quality control processes and standards to ensure that products meet or exceed quality requirements.
7. Innovation and Sustainability: Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and sustainability initiatives to drive innovation and environmentally responsible Product Development.
8. Vendor and Supplier Management: Build and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective sourcing of materials and components.
9. Timeline Management: Develop and manage project timelines to ensure on-time delivery of products and meet seasonal deadlines.
10. Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate them.
11. Compliance and Regulations: Ensure that all products adhere to relevant industry and international regulations / compliance standards.
12. Budget Management: Develop and manage budgets for Product Development projects and make cost-effective decisions.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field (Master's degree preferred) or equivalent related experience.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in product design for manufacturability, with a strong background in the apparel industry.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
• In-depth knowledge of apparel manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies.
• Strong understanding of cost analysis and budget management.
• Excellent problem-solving, conflict resolution and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Proficiency in industry-specific software and tools for design and Product Development.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and their integration into Product Development is a plus.
• High intermediate experience with Office 365 - specifically Excel and Administrator- level knowledge of PLM systems.

Core Competencies:
Adaptability
Analysis skills
Change Management
Communications - Oral and Written
Conceptual Ability
Conflict Management
Creativity
Customer Focus
Energy / Drive
Inspiring Followership
Judgement / Decision Making
Listening
Organization / Planning
Persuasion
Resourcefulness / Initiative
Team Builder
Problem Solving
Perseverance
Salary Description
Annual Salary: $165,000-$185,000 + qtrly bonus