The Role:
Veronica Beard is seeking a driven and passionate Manager to work closely with the Director of Product Development and Production while they work to expand this department. The role will involve collaborating closely with external design consultants, multiple cross -functional teams across the company, and numerous overseas vendors. This role is based in our NYC office and will report directly to the Director of PD/Production.
Responsibilities:
- Support PD/Production Director on all aspects of development from initial tech pack through to production.
- Drive and support ambitious timelines around development and introduction of new products and materials; ensure all material development deadlines and launch timelines are met.
- Assist in creating seasonal WIP charts in Excel amongst external supply chain partners.
- Maintain WIP charts throughout development to ensure all information is accurate prior to production pass off.
- A thorough understanding of product costing and margin with a proven track record of successful cost negotiations.
- Source material ranging from leather to fabric with a focus on sustainability.
- Responsible for daily vendor communication and address all issues pertinent to accurate execution of product from development through production ex-factory.
- Manage, prioritize, and provide timely resolution to high volume of daily email communication with internal and external partners.
- Thorough understanding of product development timeline, and the ability to pivot where needed for betterment of the product and or business.
- Support handbag Director in communicating with Caleres footwear team to ensure that handbag product aligns with footwear for brand cohesion.
- Responsible for the completion of BOM “bill of materials” in PLM.
- Manage, track, monitor and report on sample and delivery status at each milestone utilizing factory WIP chart.
- Review all samples received and check for accuracy, execution, and understanding of Design’s intent.
Requirements:
- 4-5 years experience working in handbag and accessory product development.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Must be a self-starter with a strong sense of initiative.
- Passion for both product and process. A deep understanding of handbag product lifecycle and general lead times is a must.
- Practical time management skills with a solid ability to multitask and manage several ongoing projects.
- An innate entrepreneurial spirit, with the ability to breathe fresh air into any team dynamic while persisting in the face of challenges.
- Experience working ‘factory direct’ with overseas handbag factories and raw material suppliers.
- Good analytical and mathematical skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Outlook. Photoshop & Illustrator is a plus
- General knowledge and experience sourcing leather and developing hardware is a plus.
- Experience with PLM is preferred. Experience with Exenta, EC Vision and ERM is a plus.
The base salary range for this role is between $75,000 and $85,000. The relevant base salary will vary depending on wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to, skill sets, experience, training, degrees, and certifications. The base salary is just one component of our total compensation offerings, which consist of a comprehensive benefits package as well as a short-term incentive program, clothing allowance, and merchandise discounts.
Please apply to this role HERE.