Senior Product Developer

Own product lifecycle, from inception, sampling process into product launch, as well as any post launch issue resolution, with the ability to manage across multiple seasons & collections

Create and maintain tracking system that allows cross-functional teams to easily access PD materials and information

Exhibit and execute on extensive knowledge of product construction specific to  travel bags and accessory category

Vast knowledge of material and component development with the ability to innovate, source and develop into new materials and components  

Review and analyze techpack to ensure production feasibility

Ability to check sample to techpack to ensure proper execution

Ensure all products and samples have achieved the construction, color and brand standards set forth by the design

Manage any updates through the development process with the factories and internal team 

Research and stay up to date on trends in the category as well as trends in manufacturing, sustainability and materials

Own and maintain product development timelines and work directly with suppliers on tracking project progress ensuring team’s adherence to deliverables at every stage in the process. (e.g. concepting phase, initial construction samples completed, component part and material sourcing, samples received, etc.)

Initiate, manage, and maintain supplier agreements with domestic manufacturers

Coordinate with all manufacturers, suppliers and factories on any manufacturing issues or delays and work internally and externally to find solutions and/or alternatives

Drive sourcing efforts around desired pricing and product needs, negotiate costs with factories as needed and ensure cost structure meets margin goals

Leverage existing and develop new manufacturing and sourcing relationships globally, intorducing new, unique and innovative product, materials and components to the team

Show creativity and resourcefulness to come up with solutions to issues which may arise during the development process and/or in anticipation to issues which may come up in sampling process and manufacturing

Communicate development challenges to management on a timely basis, while offering alternative solutions

Understand and manage QA/QC process, testing protocols, and regulations as they apply to product

Conduct internal and use testing to ensure product delivers on design intention and functional needs 

Manage product testing timeline and protocols to ensure all product meets or exceeds testing requriements relevant to each product and use 

Organize project details meticulously to ensure specs are precise, timelines tracked, and deadlines met

5+ years of Product development experience within the category 

Extensive knowledge of materials and component sourcing and development 

Extensive experience and knowledge of structural construction within the category

Has existing relationships globally within manufacturing and sourcing, within the category 

Color approval experience 

Timeline and project management expertise 

Cost of goods and margin management experience 

Very strong communication skills and ability to collaborate cross functionally and globally