Product Development Manager, Timbuk2

Exemplis•Cypress, CA

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

Timbuk2 is seeking a Manager, Product Development to lead the design execution and end-to-end development of bag and luggage collections. This role translates consumer insights, lifestyle trends, and material innovation into functional, durable, and manufacturable products that reflect Timbuk2’s brand DNA. The role blends creative direction with operational execution, owning new product introduction (NPI) from concept through production while partnering closely with freelance designers, supply chain, and cross-functional stakeholders. This is a hybrid role requiring onsite work three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday).

Requirements

7+ years of product design and/or development experience within bags, luggage, outdoor gear, accessories, or similar consumer products.
Demonstrated ownership of product launches from concept through production.
Experience managing or mentoring designers/developers (direct or freelance).
Proficiency in design tools (SolidWorks and/or Adobe Creative Suite).
Solid understanding of materials, construction methods, and manufacturing processes.
Experience using PLM/PDM systems, BOM management, and technical documentation.
Ability to manage multiple concurrent programs and meet launch timelines.

Nice To Haves

Experience with advanced 3D/AI Design tools (e.g., Vizcom, Blender).
Experience with sustainable materials and responsible design practices.
Exposure to global supplier collaboration and production environments.
Experience in D2C or consumer lifestyle brands.

Responsibilities

Lead design and development execution across seasonal and long-range product roadmaps.
Translate customer insights, travel/commuter trends, and material innovation into clear design briefs and technical packages.
Ensure all designs align with Timbuk2’s brand DNA, performance standards, and durability expectations.
Contribute to scalable design and development processes that improve speed to market.
Own the NPI process from concept through production readiness.
Manage timelines, prototyping, sampling, and technical refinement to ensure on-time launches.
Maintain accurate specifications, BOMs, and technical documentation within PLM/PDM systems.
Partner with supply chain and manufacturing to ensure quality, cost, and production feasibility.
Partner with freelance designers to expand capacity and support seasonal needs.
Provide clear direction, briefs, timelines, and feedback to internal and external contributors.
Ensure design output aligns with brand standards, quality, and functional expectations.
Manage external relationships and foster a collaborative, high-performing environment.
Partner with Product Management, Supply Chain, Marketing, Ecomm, and Retail to ensure alignment to brand and business objectives.
Participate in Pre-Production Meetings (PPMs) and Product Verification Reviews (PVRs).
Present concepts, prototypes, and updates clearly to stakeholders.
Incorporate feedback to continuously improve product performance and consumer experience.