Director Product Development and Design

Director of Product Development & Design

Position Type: Exempt, Full-Time (Occasional weekend availability required)

Travel: As needed for vendor meetings, sourcing, fit sessions, and industry events.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Director of Product Development & Design to lead the creation and execution of premium women's apparel collections for a rapidly growing consumer brand. This leadership role oversees the entire product development lifecycle, from initial concept through production—while building and mentoring a high-performing team.

The ideal candidate combines creative vision with operational excellence and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. This individual will partner closely with executive leadership, global manufacturing partners, and cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional products that meet quality, timeline, and financial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Product Development and Design team.
• Build efficient workflows and scalable processes that improve execution.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing culture.
• Partner with executive leadership to align product strategy with company objectives.
• Collaborate across Design, Production, Marketing, Operations, Sales, and Leadership teams.

Product Development

• Oversee the complete product development process from concept through production.
• Manage seasonal calendars and critical path timelines.
• Prioritize projects and allocate resources to meet launch deadlines.
• Identify and resolve development or production challenges proactively.
• Continuously improve product development systems and processes.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage departmental budgets.
• Forecast sampling, development, and production expenses.
• Monitor costs and identify opportunities to improve profitability.
• Negotiate vendor pricing while maintaining quality standards.
• Provide leadership with regular budget updates and financial insights.

Vendor & Manufacturing Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international manufacturing partners.
• Serve as the primary contact for vendor communication throughout development.
• Communicate technical specifications, production requirements, and timelines.
• Negotiate pricing, production schedules, and delivery timelines.
• Resolve manufacturing issues while maintaining strong vendor partnerships.

Technical Development & Quality

• Oversee the development and accuracy of tech packs and technical documentation.
• Ensure product specifications are clearly communicated for manufacturing.
• Maintain standards for fit, construction, performance, and overall quality.
• Lead fit sessions and oversee revisions through final approval.
• Approve fabrics, colors, lab dips, and production samples.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Present collection updates, timelines, and development progress to leadership.
• Partner with Marketing and Sales to ensure successful product launches.
• Communicate risks, milestones, and development updates across teams.
• Incorporate strategic feedback into future collections.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Merchandising, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in apparel product development, technical design, or product creation, preferably within women's apparel or activewear.
• 2+ years of leadership and people management experience.
• Deep understanding of garment construction, fit, grading, patternmaking, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience managing vendors, product calendars, and global manufacturing partners.
• Strong budgeting, forecasting, and vendor negotiation experience.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and project management skills.
• Highly detail-oriented with excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Collaborative leadership style with a passion for developing people and delivering exceptional products.

Pay: $83,439.39 - $100,486.15 per year

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person