Job Description

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

The Product Development Manager (PDM) leads the strategic development of assortment architecture and line plan curation to meet client needs while achieving financial goals. This position manages and coordinates product development projects, timelines, and assortments for assigned clients. The PDM is responsible for the day-to-day operational aspects of core product development projects in alignment with the client’s timing and action calendars, ensuring deadlines are consistently met. As the primary owner of Made For Retail’s (MFR) product development initiatives, this role executes and leads strategies with accountability for financial performance.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on design, product development, financial analysis, and assortment planning strategies.
• Lead project management from development to in-store sets, including pre-production, production phases, and post-launch analysis.
• Understand client business trends, brand standards, and objectives to support targeted assortment planning.
• Champion process improvements that enhance product development workflows and team efficiency.

Product Development & Innovation

• Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of the marketplace and clients.
• Identify and address assortment gaps, pursuing innovation opportunities across product categories.
• Manage product feasibility and execution through close collaboration with overseas partners and vendors.
• Responsible for final review of samples to ensure quality, performance, and suitability.
• Collaborate with overseas teams to ensure vendor alignment with cost, quality, and compliance expectations.
• Implement iterative development strategies to refine early-stage concepts.
• Apply risk management and contingency planning throughout the development lifecycle.
• Leverage 3D design tools and AI technologies for enhanced efficiency and speed-to-market.

Design & Trend Integration

• Stay leading-edge on marketplace trends to ensure competitive product positioning.
• Use internal and external trend resources to articulate MFR’s point of view in client assortments.
• Participate in client-facing design and trend meetings as needed.
• Develop and optimize line plans using data insights to align with MFR and client goals.

Data Integrity & Cost Management

• Maintain accurate data using PLM tools, tech packs, and supplier platforms.
• Track and manage program cost drivers to meet or exceed budget goals.
• Ensure product data integrity in PLM, Tech Packs, and supplier requests.

REQUIREMENTS

• 3+ years of experience in fast-paced, trend-driven consumer product development
• Bachelor’s degree in Retail, Design, Business, or related field
• Proven experience with national retailers and international factories/partners
• Ability to work onsite at our office in Roseville, MN 2 days/week
• Skilled in managing cross-functional teams, product timelines, and action calendars
• Strong understanding of cost engineering and product feasibility
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Strong experience with PLM systems and tech pack development
• Analytical skills to interpret market and performance data
• Strong trend, color, and merchandising sense
• Excellent verbal and visual communication skills
• Adaptable and thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Familiar with 3D design, AI applications, and agile development principles
• Knowledge of sustainability and compliance standards

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