Product Developer, Accessories

Cole Haan•New York, NY

20h•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Product Developer, Accessories in our New York Office. The Product Developer, Accessories is responsible for managing all aspects of Handbag/SLG product development and sourcing (included but not limited to, calendar dates/and key performance indicators). Through communication and coordination with all cross functional teams and vendors to ensure the accurate execution of the products from development to bulk production. With knowledge in cost analysis and costing negotiation, the Developer should be able to propose alternative development options for the brand to hit target margin while executing the design intent and top product quality.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in a related field
4+ years of relevant experience in handbag/SLG product development/production
High proficiency managing a large number of projects in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work under deadlines, manage multiple priorities, work independently, take initiative, pay close attention to detail and stay organized
Self-aware and Open-minded: Knows when to be patient and when to push.
Executes changes that impact the business.
Takes ownership and accountability.
Be proactive and positive
Strong knowledge and passion for product, marketplace and consumer trends

Nice To Haves

Visionary: Your knowledge of product engineering, the marketplace and the customer inform your ability to deliver products that are forward-facing yet functionally and stylistically serving the needs of young urban professionals around the world as they are living, working and working out
Leader: Your depth of product knowledge, prior experience leading others and clear ability to communicate provides you with an exceptional foundation to confidently deliver and represent the product innovation agenda at all levels of the brand internally and externally while maintaining humility to always be open, learning, flexible and a mentor to the team
Entrepreneur: Opportunity has no timeline especially as the way we live, work and play is constantly evolving. In this role a strong work ethic, smart risk taking, and internal drive are a must to identify future marketplace opportunities as well as deliver on seasonal business and brand driving expectations
Organized: Your experience in managing people, accessories collections, important brand/business driving projects and the accessories process aligned with Cole Haan's go-to-market calendar is critical to delivering best-in-class products with efficiency and effectiveness.
Model Integrity: You tell the truth. Always. You demonstrate professional, ethical and transparent behavior in all activities and decisions. You courageously model upstanding behaviors consistent, even in the face of difficult challenges
Value Individuality & Diversity: You recognize and value differences and seek inclusiveness. You are inviting and accepting of different viewpoints. You leverage the rich background and abilities of others
Inspire Teamwork: You work collaboratively towards a common goal and care as much about the success of others as you do about your success. You model the behaviors of an effective team member/leader
Encourage Creativity: You encourage intellectual curiosity. You believe there is a better way and push for it. You challenge conventional thinking/assumptions. You take calculated risks and accept failure as a learning opportunity

Responsibilities

At each sampling stage, complies and reviews specs for accuracy, completeness, quality, affordability, and compliance prior to issuance to overseas offices/manufacturers.
Coordinates with cross-functional teams to manage spec. turnover within calendar, monitor development status and complete the final handoff to Production.
Reviews samples & costing and directs the discussion with Merchandising & Design on the development at each stage.
Works closely with supervisor to address issues affecting sample or production delivery.
Partners with overseas office and supervisor to participate in on-going factory base performance evaluation and recommends improvements to factories that are beneficial to our brand.
Works closely with Design team on seasonal needs and coordinates with Material team and overseas office to provide options, techniques and support.
Endeavors to instill quality in the products from material evaluation through final production.
Ensures that all components and constructions used are compliant for performance and quality.
Tracks calendar in daily basis to promote flow of development.
Apprises and resolves calendar variances with supervisor.
Works to calendar to ensure timely turnover of development, return of prototypes and placement of final production.