What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Development Manager position at Gloster Furniture?
General Description:
The Product Development Manager serves as the product development liaison for the Cushion Department and works with the International Product Development teams for both Dedon and Gloster.
Essential Function/Duties:
- Leads the product development / implementation team for Gloster-US.
- Manage the product development / implementation cycle.
- Ensure development deadlines are met.
- Ensure brand standards are maintained.
- Assist with pattern validation using CAD software.
- Work with vendors to develop / specify newly required components.
- Create a detailed Bill of Materials for items.
- Work closely with production, purchasing and master data on the setup of new items / components.
- Test products throughout the development / implementation process to troubleshoot potential problems.
- Deliver product specifications and procedures to the production team for production purposes.
- Analyze existing products to identify areas for improvement.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Skills/Qualifications:
- Knowledge of fabric, foam, fiber, patterns, sewing, cutting (automated and manual).
- Knowledge of CAD software.
- Strong math skills.
- Strong MS Excell and Word Skills.
- Strong problem solving, time management, and communication skills.
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Additional time spent walking and standing, as well as lifting rolls of fabric and laying them out when needed.
- Time may be spent bending and stooping to perform cutting duties.
- Must be able to work in a production warehouse environment which may not be climate controlled.
- May be exposed to dust and/or fiber particles.
