Softgoods Product Development Manager

MillerKnoll•Chicago, IL

19h•$85,000 - $130,000

About The Position

As the Softgoods Product Development Manager, you’ll be the bridge between creative vision and real-world product. You’ll collaborate closely with our Product Development Director and Executive Creative Director to shape the future of our collections—sourcing innovative materials, developing new products, and managing timelines from concept to launch. This role is a mix of creative exploration and project management precision. You’ll work with mills and vendors around the world, scout new partners, and ensure every product aligns with the HOLLY HUNT brand

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required
3-5 years’ experience in Softgoods design and development required
Understanding of textile weaving and fabric construction a plus
Knowledge of wallpaper construction and design a plus
Must be comfortable with both design and project management
Strong knowledge of high- end luxury product and client buying experience preferred
Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, Outlook knowledge preferred
Must be comfortable with multi-tasking, meeting deadlines and working in a fast-paced environment
Ability to travel up to 20%
Outstanding organization and communication skills with demonstrated ability to prioritize workload and attention to detail
Excellent written and oral communication skills with proven ability to communicate with all levels in an organization

Nice To Haves

International product sourcing experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

Provide innovative solutions and creative insights for product design to fit within the HOLLY HUNT soft goods brands, while adhering to the creative direction provided by the SVP/Executive Creative Director.
Manage new product development through the entire launch process, including managing all launch deliveries and inspections as well as meeting agreed upon milestones and adhering to financial targets.
Research market trends and innovative materials that align with company image, market demands and trend analysis.
Help to prepare for and attend all development meetings with Exec Creative Director as well as weekly meetings with internal stakeholders.
Assist with preparation of inspiration boards for Softgoods, including color trend analysis and design research.
Collaborate with Merchandising to ensure the creative spirit of new launches is clearly communicated and carried through all sales assets including showroom displays, road kits and launch mailers and training materials.
With Development Director, assist with all launch photo shoots by providing styling and design direction; tracking fabrication of assets and monitoring deliveries.
In collaboration with Softgoods Product Development Director, lead the formation of new relationships with vendors via regular travel, both domestically and internationally.