Director of Product Development

Clare V.•Los Angeles, CA

15h•$150,000 - $185,000•Onsite

About The Position

About Clare V. Clare V. is a line of accessible-luxury pieces born and based in sunny Los Angeles, California. Led by founder Clare Vivier, Clare V. is a distinctive reflection of Clare’s unique background, passions, and vision. More than 10 years ago, Clare started making the types of bags she wanted, but couldn’t find anywhere. As the brand grew, she proudly kept production local to Los Angeles, meanwhile forging partnerships with local and global organizations working to make a positive difference in the world. Today, Clare V. remains committed to conscious practices while creating collections that are bold yet enduring, elevated yet accessible, and irresistibly charming yet rooted in everyday practicality. The brand headquarters is located in the Silverlake area of Los Angeles and is actively led by Clare Vivier. Manage the Product Development team through entire development process from R&D to production handoff; meanwhile achieving design aesthetic, quality, and timeline goals. You are a dynamic leader that can navigate between the demands of design, suppliers, and other cross functional partners.

Requirements

BA/BS degree or equivalent life experience
Minimum 8-10 years’ experience in leather fashion accessories product development, sourcing, and/or production. With at least 4 years managing a team of 4+ direct reports.
Experience working with both domestic and import factories.
Strong organizational, interpersonal and negotiation skills
Strong math and collaborative skills.
PLM experience required.
Strong proficiency in Excel and Google Suite required.
Ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities and can work with a strong sense of accuracy and urgency.
Proficiency in reading and understanding tech packs and bill of material.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.

Nice To Haves

WFX experience a plus.
Expert understanding of patternmaking and construction of handbags preferred.

Responsibilities

Works closely with Design Director, internal R&D and import factories on seasonal offering needs to provide options in materials, suppliers, and techniques.
Sources alternate manufacturers and material suppliers to provide options in materials, products, and techniques as needed while building a tight factory partner base.
Directs seasonal style allocation to factories ensure no one factory is overloaded.
Manages factory relationships for the benefit of the brand and in line with the strategic sourcing plan.
Supports brand sourcing strategy lead by SVP of Production to onboard new full package suppliers. With the PD team, put together sampling materials and tech packs to vet new factories. Will also collaborate closely to define cost targets for these new initiatives.
With Product Development team, reviews all prototypes and market samples to insure faithful execution to spec.
Ensures that all needed sample materials are purchased, scheduled, monitored, and inventoried.
Through the Product Development team, manages the prototyping process including scheduling, monitoring, and reporting, flexing both factory and internal schedules to ensure productive milestone meetings and accurate execution to design.
Oversees the review and communication of style/material minimums, material costs, and lead times to Production and Planning as needed in development cycle for proper planning of production flow.
Supports R&D with cost negotiations for all components and Costing Manager on finished goods costs based on margin plans and target retail structures. Reviews costing report prior to FDR meeting to drive conversations around margin challenges with key business leaders.
Works closely with Cost Manager to finalize all costing once market samples are complete.
Governs the review of all components with an eye for quality, durability, and compliance.
Ensures that all components and constructions used are compliant for performance and restricted substances prior to production and overseeing the testing in development of any questionable materials.
Manages, and flexes calendar (annual and in-season) to ensure adherence of all deadlines associated with development of product.
Firm understanding of prioritization and managing unexpected delays by resolving with cross-functional teams and upper management.
Manages monthly development expenses and weekly invoice processing to accounting.
Communicates seasonal budget targets to PD team and tracks expenses accordingly.
Manages team and cross functional relationships to ensure our product meets quality and cost requirements.
Provides weekly reporting on development status to Department Head for all active seasons. At the end of the season provides a development hindsight to cross functional partners.
International travel 2-3 times per year or as needed to fulfill the requirements of the role.
Attention to coaching and building a team, provide clear goals for each team member and actively contribute to building a collaborative team environment.
Works on other relevant projects as required by Department Head.

Benefits

Annual salary range of $150K - $185K, along with annual cost-of-living increases, end-of -year bonus opportunities, and generous employee discounts. Plus, enjoy bi-annual product credits to keep you connected with the brand.
A fully stocked kitchen with healthy snacks and beverages
Monthly catered lunches to bring the team together
Quarterly team-building events, including meaningful volunteer outings throughout the Los Angeles community
Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family covered
Flex Spending Accounts and Transportation Management Accounts
Life and Long-term disability insurance for peace of mind
Paid vacation, personal days, and sick time to help you recharge
Guardian ancillary plans for added protection and flexibility
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support for life's challenges
401(k) with company match to help you build a strong financial future