What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Development Manager, Outlet position at Theory?
At Theory, we create clothes that matter that empower and improve the way we live through exceptional fit, fabric, and style. In 1997, Theory was founded in New York on the simple idea that stretch fabrics in tailored clothing could change how we dress and live. Two decades later, we continue to perfect our offering of elevated wardrobe essentials for the ambitious, urban man and woman. From sourcing materials from the best mills in the world, to the innovation and craftsmanship at our atelier in New York's Meatpacking District, the integrity of our process is just as important as our final product.
In 2004, Theory was acquired by Fast Retailing, spurring the international expansion of the brand. Operating 440 stores worldwide, today Theory is a New York brand with a global mindset. Our customers dream big, achieve goals, and aim for perfection. So do we, and so do our clothes.
Theory is looking for an experienced and motivated Product Development Manager to join their Outlet team.
Responsibilities:
- Responsible for managing end- to- end sample development process and calendar timeline related to fabric R&D, style sketching, tech pack creation, fit process, pre-costing and readying styles for commercialization and production.
- Manage pre-costing process from proto (internal flash costing) through to SMS (factory costing)
- Highly proficient in Flash Costing with baseline inputs: converting fabric cuttable width, understand relationship between like for like style, COO, duties and tariffs.
- Work with Design, Tech, Production teams and factory partners to ensure accurate cost estimates and price targets are achievable to meet and/or exceed target FOB; partner with Design director to negotiate sample costs directly with factory to achieve desired margin requirements.
- Fabric Data management: Oversee and maintain accurate records of all fabric-related data.
- Set up and manage fabric and theme related details in Centric, ensuring all fabric information is accurately entered, and product development timelines are adhered to.
- Track and ensure all Fabric data sheets (FDS), Fabric specification sheets (FSS), Fabric information sheets (FIS) are completed accurately and promptly for all fabric orders
- Monitor and ensure all fabrics meet sustainability and testing criteria and track the progress of certifications/testing reports.
- Communicate with fabric suppliers and mills to gather necessary information and resolve any issues related to fabric sourcing, samples, and production timelines.
- Assist the design team with fabric, color, labdip approvals and testing to ensure final product meets specifications.
- Strong knowledge in fabric and textile properties and performance testing
- Familiarity with sustainability certifications and environmental standards in textile manufacturing
- Strong technical knowledge of woven and cut-sew garment construction
- Own daily communication with factories on all proto sample development
- Work closely with Design, Tech and Production teams to align on allocation strategy for each style
- Provide input to weekly Cross Functional Team -including Design and Merchandising to execute product line collaboratively and efficiently
- Maintain consistency and accuracy of information flow between Design, Tech, Production and Merchandising teams
- Manage Trim Development and Ordering, Creating POs and Allocation for all seasonal trim requests
- Manage Trim development budget each season (development, proto)
- Own processing all dept invoices in Centric/Coupa
- Ensure product testing process is being executed starting at proto stage
- Work with Design Director to enforce seasonal development calendar dates
- Maintain development charts managing all proto delivery dates and communicating sample ready dates to cross-functional teams
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree
- Minimum 5 years of experience in Product Development/Production required
- Independent, self-motivated & detail oriented
- Excellent written & verbal communication skills
- Innately curious and proactive in problem-solving
- Highly proficient in Flash Costing
- Must be highly organized
- Ability to prioritize & multi-task in a busy office environment
- Must work well in a team
- Strong Work Ethic
- Analytical skills a plus
- Proficient in all Microsoft office programs (Excel is a must)
- PLM experience a must
Salary: $90,000.00 to 100,000.00*
*The offered salary or salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills and expertise, and location of the position.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Theory LLC does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, citizenship, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or because of any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
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Salary : $90,000 - $100,000