Product Development Manager

Aquent is partnering with a leading global brand renowned for its iconic presence in the fashion industry. This innovative company is dedicated to delivering exceptional products that resonate with a worldwide audience, constantly pushing the boundaries of design and quality. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to join their team and significantly influence the development and execution of their accessory lines. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape product vision from concept to consumer, ensuring every item reflects the brand's commitment to excellence and strategic growth.

**About the Role**

As a key player in product development, you will own the entire lifecycle of accessory collections, transforming design concepts into tangible, high-quality products. You will be instrumental in bridging the gap between creative vision and manufacturing reality, driving strategic partnerships across global teams. This role demands a proactive leader who can navigate complex processes, negotiate effectively, and champion efficient solutions to deliver products on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Your impact will be felt directly in the brand's ability to bring innovative and desirable accessories to market with speed and flexibility.

**Key Responsibilities**

* Lead the development and execution of accessory products from initial design intent through to bulk production.

* Partner closely with design, technical development, and manufacturing teams to align product development with design vision and global sourcing strategies.

* Oversee sample tracking and data management within product lifecycle management systems, ensuring accuracy and comprehensive reporting for cross-functional partners.

* Manage and negotiate product costings, identifying alternative options and leading costing meetings to achieve optimal value.

* Develop and implement product solutions by analyzing processes, optimizing hand-offs, and refining technical package requirements.

* Ensure accountability across design and development teams for meeting critical timeline deliverables.

* Evaluate development ratios to optimize product output and efficiency.

* Actively participate in in-person fittings and cross-functional meetings to drive product progression.

* Lead and mentor a team, including direct reports, fostering talent development, onboarding, and continuous training.

* Collaborate with cross-functional partners including Merchandising, Planning, Quality Assurance, Creative, and Operations to ensure products meet design intent, quality standards, and cost parameters.

* Monitor and manage lead times for raw materials and finished products, aligning them with the overall milestone calendar.

* Review design specifications and technical packages, facilitating their handover to vendors while cross-referencing against line plans.

* Maintain daily communication with the vendor base, monitoring status updates and providing visibility to the broader team through tracking charts.

**Must-Have Qualifications**

* Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Merchandising, Supply Chain/Logistics, or a related field.

* 8-10 years of experience in product development, with a strong focus on accessories.

* Proven experience managing and developing a team.

* Demonstrated ability to review and validate costs throughout the development process.

* Exceptional administrative skills and proficiency in standard office software.

* Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

* Proactive, self-motivated, and possesses a strong sense of responsibility and urgency.

* Effective and efficient communicator with keen written, verbal, and electronic communication skills.

* Constructive approach to problem-solving with excellent analytical abilities.

* Ability to flex between projects and adapt to changing demands.

* A collaborative team player who can build strong relationships at all levels.

* Strong, consistent problem-solving abilities and results-driven communication with business partners.

* Ability to communicate and influence design aesthetic and direction to vendors and regional offices.

* Experience representing a team on a regional scale and communicating with overseas vendors.

**Nice-to-Have Qualifications**

* Degree in fashion.

* Knowledge of handbag construction and manufacturing methods.

**About Aquent Talent:**

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. More information on our awesome benefits!

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.

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