What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Development Manager position at Legends?
The Product Development Manager is responsible for leading the critical functions of product development; working on a cross-functional team of talented individuals and to ensure the product is built with integrity, intention and consistent with our brand vision and values. The ideal candidate will have a proven product development track record in the apparel industry. As a member of the Product Development team, you will participate in developing and executing product to align with Design's vision and the overarching business strategy of our rapidly growing brand. This role reports directly to the Head of Product.
Responsibilities
- Manage the product creation process from design hand-off to production approval
- Establish and execute the brand strategy for Legends apparel product to achieve financial, quality, and product integrity goals
- Understand and implement standards that deliver on the design vision. Partner with Design on all design approvals and comments
- Manage multi-season development calendars and the execution for all tasks related to the Product Development cycle. Strong fabric sourcing capabilities with an eye for design
- Responsible for Key Performance Indicators during product development stages, including maintaining vendor scorecard, fit approval execution, and initial IMU
- Ensure quick resolution of product- related issues with appropriate Merchant, Design and Product Development team members
- Work with Production on initial allocation of bulk orders to appropriate suppliers, considering available capacity, capability, workmanship and costing
- Day to day vendor interaction and management on product development, building strong relationships with overseas suppliers
- Support Merchandise needs and business requirements by aligning the sourcing base with calendar and product needs
Qualifications
- 8 years of experience in Product Development and Sourcing and/or a combination of the two
- Positive attitude, results-driven, and hands-on approach
- Well-defined leadership style and clear best practices
- Strong Organizational and prioritization skills, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously
- Ability to work under pressure, maintaining attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work in a team environment, build trust, and build relationships with vendors and cross-functional partners
- Strong analytical skills
- Ability to negotiate costs and understanding cost drivers, margins, and landing factors
- Thorough understanding of testing protocol, product integrity requirements, product cycle timelines, costing, price negotiation, and garment construction
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- BFA or BA in Fashion Merchandising, Business, or related field
- English proficiency, additional language(s) an advantage
- Experience in Adults’ and Children’s sportswear apparel is a plus
- Willingness to travel overseas to visit vendors and suppliers as required
- Able to come into our HQ in Torrance, CA, on a weekly hybrid schedule (2-3 Days per week)
