Production Manager

Job Description

Product Development Manager

Our Client, a Woman’s Apparel and Gifting company, based out of Raleigh, NC is looking for an experienced Product Development manager to join their team. Product Development Manager is responsible for the development of all apparel product categories. This position owns the business relationships with suppliers to leverage lower costs and reduced lead time without sacrificing quality.

Responsibilities

• Manage the flow of sample materials, product specs and details for timely, accurate, and profitable execution of product designs.
• Attends and participates in all concept, development and trend meetings for the brand.
• Helps with the creation and design of certain products when needed.
• Develops materials with suppliers based on design direction, within design esthetic and budget.
• Continues to expand the supplier base with newness and innovation.
• Follow up and track all lab dip, handloom, strike off, wash panels, embroidery and trim submits
• Evaluates seasonal calendar dates to prioritize development allocation and support the Production sourcing strategy.
• Reviews and communicates style and material minimums and lead-times to design, and production. Negotiates advantageous terms with all suppliers.
• Solid knowledge of product cost breakdowns for all proto/sample costing, focusing on upfront cost options for margin challenged styles/concepts.
• Solid understanding of landing factors for overseas developed product.
• Strong ability to analyze & negotiate costing as well as lead-times/booking dates with vendors.
• Maintains accurate material files and costing details for handover to Production team, supporting a clean handoff on a seasonal basis.
  
  

Requirements

• 5-7 years of experience in apparel production management, with a focus on imports
• Strong costing and negotiation skills
• Knowledge/understanding of fabrics
• Microsoft Office programs and familiar with RLM or any PLM system
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrates proactive problem-solving skills
• Use basic retail math needed to determine costs, margins and turn
• Detail oriented with strong follow through - able to organize and prioritize multiple projects
• Possess a sense of urgency in managing time and while accomplishing tasks