Product Development Manager – Maternity Leave Cover

Responsibilities

• Manage the development process from design concept through production approval.
• Partner with Design, Merchandising, and Production teams to ensure product aligns with seasonal strategies and brand standards.
• Maintain and manage product development calendars to support key milestones and deadlines.
• Oversee the sampling process, including prototype reviews, fit sessions, and sample tracking.
• Support continuity of product development priorities during the leave coverage period.
• Source and manage fabrics, trims, and components that align with brand standards and product performance requirements.
• Maintain strong communication with suppliers and manufacturers to support development timelines.
• Partner with vendors on pricing, lead times, minimum order quantities, and production needs.
• Follow up on outstanding materials, samples, and vendor deliverables to ensure deadlines are met.
• Ensure products meet quality, performance, and compliance standards.
• Partner with the Quality Assurance team to address testing needs and resolve development or production issues.
• Review and approve pre-production and production samples.
• Maintain attention to detail across fit, construction, materials, and overall product quality.
• Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Production, Sales, Marketing, and E-commerce to support product launches and seasonal priorities.
• Provide product knowledge, development updates, and technical insights to internal teams.
• Facilitate clear cross-functional communication to resolve development challenges and keep projects moving forward.
• Serve as a reliable point of contact for product development during the leave coverage period.
• Maintain accurate product development records, sample tracking, and archives.
• Prepare and communicate development status updates, including timelines, outstanding items, and key milestones.
• Identify opportunities to improve workflow, communication, and process efficiency where appropriate.
• Ensure a smooth transition of information before, during, and after the leave coverage period.

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Product Development, or a related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in product development within the fashion or apparel industry.
• Strong understanding of the product development lifecycle, from concept through production.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator and Photoshop, and Microsoft Office.
• Experience managing vendor relationships, sourcing materials, and tracking development timelines.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, follow-up, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to quickly step into an active development cycle and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a keen eye for design, quality, and product execution.