Product Developer Apparel

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Product Developer for Apparel is a member of the product development team responsible for the development process and execution of a products development in the specified product category. The product developer will coordinate the development process working with designers, fit team, merchants, and vendors in taking product from the concept stage to production for the assigned product category.

• Leads the development team in the product development timeline from seasonal strategy, concept reviews, planning, sample reviews, approvals, production release, product launch planning, and up to 1st PO receipts (as deemed necessary).
• Develops understanding of vendor/factory capabilities to provide product/program sourcing and placement proposals to manager.
• Develops and documents project scope and product specifications with product development team.
• Creates cost analysis and prepares negotiation strategy to achieve margin requirements and cost savings goals
• Works with designers to fully understand the product category, brands, product positioning, feature sets, and required functional performance for assigned product/project development.
• Works with designers on complete technical packages for factories to develop samples and quotations.
• Reviews detail of Bill of Materials to ensure appropriate costing. Address potential roadblocks (costs –tooling
  -materials- technology) in pursuing project and find solutions or seek resources to solve problems.
• Performs product review of samples, addresses challenges regarding specifications, materials, or pricing. Present samples to development team for feedback – communicate any revisions to factory, and develop solutions to address gaps in expectations
• Proactively identifies and addresses product and process improvement projects in advance of seasonal calendar start dates to be prepared for upcoming seasonal development.
• Works with product development team identify/validate potential new product opportunities.
• Ensures product data management in PLM system or other tracking software to include information such as final specifications, spec sheet, costing, factory assignment, and development reviews.
• Provides field testers with final samples for testing (if needed); develop field testing requirements and conduct follow-up reviews with testers.
• Works with designers to develop packaging that is appropriate for the product and ensure it meets brand standards. Submit and review all product content for collateral materials to support product in packaging, infographics, and digital media platforms.
• Coordinates with quality and vendors to ensure that all product testing procedures have been executed and advise on scheduling of new product factory PO audits.
• Ensure accuracy and submission of new item forms.
• ALL OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED

Preferred Degree:
Bachelor’s degree in Product Development, Design, or Business

Years of experience: 7-10 years work experience with at least 5 years in a product development role. Industry knowledge in the specified category of apparel. Experience working with international supply base and garment production processes.

Ability to use MS Office suite;
Proficient in use of MS Excel

Strong analytical and trouble shooting skills

Cost negotiations

Attention to detail: visually and functionally

Well organized

Ability to multi-task, excellent time management

Team player with ability to be flexible to changing business situations

Can work-around roadblocks using existing knowledge

Sees the strategic goals of the company and can translate this to some aspects of their AOR

Takes responsibility for the outcome of projects

Strong verbal and written communication skills; confident to present projects in group settings

Domestic and International. Estimated travel less than 30 days per year.

Regular computer work, and sitting

Ability to use hand tools to di-sect samples and use measuring gauges

Occasional walking, standing, and lifting up to 50lbs

Enjoy discounts on retail merchandise, our restaurants, world-class resorts…