Anthropologie Temporary Associate PD Manager

URBN•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

Anthropologie is seeking a Temporary Associate Product Development Manager responsible for developing and executing a business, manufacturing, and operational strategy that anticipates the needs of the Brand and supply chain. The role leads sourcing and production execution, supports on-time product delivery, and aligns manufacturing with Brand and URBN initiatives involving innovation, speed, cost, quality, risk mitigation, supplier continuity, and emerging-market opportunities. The position reports to the Sr Category Director.

Requirements

At least 8 years of progressive production or sourcing experience in a complex, fast-paced apparel environment.
Team management experience.
A successful track record of building cross-functional relationships and offering new, innovative solutions to sourcing issues and challenges.
Experience developing and leveraging strategic business relationships with vendors or suppliers.
Proven ability to implement operational efficiencies and improve processes.
High integrity and urgency, with the ability to work to deadlines and take on new challenges.
Deep understanding of sourcing strategy and levers that promote speed.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Specialty retail and/or direct-to-consumer experience.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the Sr Category Director to create a strategic and operational global sourcing strategy aligned with current and future Brand needs.
Lead execution of a manufacturing strategy aligned with Brand and URBN initiatives for innovative products, speed, cost reduction, quality, risk mitigation, supplier continuity, and emerging-market opportunities.
Oversee production time and action for outstanding development to support successful, on-time product delivery.
Lead order placement and ensure target placement dates align with business strategies and deliveries are consistently achieved.
Understand supplier capabilities, strengths, and improvement opportunities; create and implement action plans to improve alignment and maximize opportunities.
Maintain positive, productive relationships with URBN suppliers.
Build stakeholder relationships and create calendars that support speed-to-market initiatives and reduce weeks of supply.
Collaborate with cross-functional partners to meet margin goals and costing metrics.
Execute the whole production process and collaborate with the Sr Category Director on product allocation, production flexibility, monthly capacities, and machine capabilities.
Evaluate freight modes for distribution center receipt and flow.
Lead, manage, develop, and train Brand Sourcing team members; evaluate team structure and processes to best serve the Brand.
Solve team problems, coach effectively, and recognize individual and team accomplishments.
Execute strategies set by leadership, identify potential obstacles, and offer solutions.
Work cross-functionally at all levels to contribute to strategy and execute projects, incorporating stakeholder feedback as appropriate.
Manage a distinct product or business area, drive decisions, and manage team output.
Recognize operational weaknesses and roadblocks, identify opportunities, and seek leadership support to implement them.
Consider other teams' perspectives, provide feedback, and communicate complex information clearly and effectively for different audiences.