Product Development and Design Manager

Meijer•Grand Rapids, MI

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is responsible for the Design & Development of merchandise including trend right silhouette, fabric, pattern and color direction; ensures product quality and integrity, and maintains consistent brand handwriting for the target customer. Position follows our hybrid schedule: Monday-Wednesday in office, Thursday-Friday remote. Seasonal domestic travel plus occasional international travel required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or equivalent industry experience
7 - 10 years experience in Fashion Design or Product Development, leading creative teams.
Knowledge and expertise in assortment building from initial concept to execution, while maintaining development calendar benchmarks.
Knowledge/expertise with fabrics, trims, construction details and finishing techniques.
Understanding of industry trends, assortment planning, key item development, color, print and pattern selection.
Ability to adapt to existing and changing processes, brand assignments while communicating and receiving thoughts and ideas openly.
Concise, clear, daily communication required with Buyers, CAD, Color Analyst, Quality Assurance Technicians, and Global Sourcing.
Written and verbal communication skills are critical.

Responsibilities

Own the Design and Product Development of all apparel and accessories.
Drive a cohesive brand vision ensuring that products meet assortment strategies, price points and overall creative direction.
Ensure product assortment is appropriate for the designated Meijer customer and brands, including leading the aesthetic execution through trend right styling, fabrication, trims, color and print/pattern.
Manage seasonal development calendar to meet required timelines.
Coordinate and manage key in the development process to ensure design/merchandising requirements are met.
Work with CAD Design to develop prints and pattern work for season.
Review strike-offs and handlooms for layout and execution; resolve any issues and approve.
Partner with Quality Assurance Technicians to ensure complete Tech Design Packages are presented for sourcing.
Take responsibility for completion, execution and accuracy; and communication of all Technical Sketch, Details and Bill of Materials Information.
Travel overseas as part of sourcing, finalization team.
Review counter samples with Quality Assurance Technicians for fit, execution and style approval.
Communicate to Global Sourcing, any styling/detail changes affecting price or Bill of Materials.
Develop skills/enhance productivity of direct reports by managing, coaching, providing feedback, instilling teamwork, conducting performance reviews, and promoting training/development.