Clare V. · 16 hours ago
Director of Product Development
Clare V. is a line of accessible-luxury pieces born and based in sunny Los Angeles, California. The Director of Product Development will manage the Product Development team through the entire development process from R&D to production handoff while achieving design aesthetic, quality, and timeline goals.
ApparelE-CommerceFashionLifestyle
Responsibilities
Manage the Product Development team through entire development process from R&D to production handoff; meanwhile achieving design aesthetic, quality, and timeline goals
Works closely with Design Director, internal R&D and import factories on seasonal offering needs to provide options in materials, suppliers, and techniques
Sources alternate manufacturers and material suppliers to provide options in materials, products, and techniques as needed while building a tight factory partner base
Directs seasonal style allocation to factories ensure no one factory is overloaded
Manages factory relationships for the benefit of the brand and in line with the strategic sourcing plan
Supports brand sourcing strategy lead by SVP of Production to onboard new full package suppliers. With the PD team, put together sampling materials and tech packs to vet new factories. Will also collaborate closely to define cost targets for these new initiatives
With Product Development team, reviews all prototypes and market samples to insure faithful execution to spec
Ensures that all needed sample materials are purchased, scheduled, monitored, and inventoried
Through the Product Development team, manages the prototyping process including scheduling, monitoring, and reporting, flexing both factory and internal schedules to ensure productive milestone meetings and accurate execution to design
Oversees the review and communication of style/material minimums, material costs, and lead times to Production and Planning as needed in development cycle for proper planning of production flow
Supports R&D with cost negotiations for all components and Costing Manager on finished goods costs based on margin plans and target retail structures. Reviews costing report prior to FDR meeting to drive conversations around margin challenges with key business leaders
Works closely with Cost Manager to finalize all costing once market samples are complete
Governs the review of all components with an eye for quality, durability, and compliance
Ensures that all components and constructions used are compliant for performance and restricted substances prior to production and overseeing the testing in development of any questionable materials
Manages, and flexes calendar (annual and in-season) to ensure adherence of all deadlines associated with development of product
Firm understanding of prioritization and managing unexpected delays by resolving with cross-functional teams and upper management
Manages monthly development expenses and weekly invoice processing to accounting
Communicates seasonal budget targets to PD team and tracks expenses accordingly
Manages team and cross functional relationships to ensure our product meets quality and cost requirements
Provides weekly reporting on development status to Department Head for all active seasons. At the end of the season provides a development hindsight to cross functional partners
International travel 2-3 times per year or as needed to fulfill the requirements of the role
Attention to coaching and building a team, provide clear goals for each team member and actively contribute to building a collaborative team environment
Works on other relevant projects as required by Department Head
Qualification
Required
BA/BS degree or equivalent life experience
Minimum 8-10 years' experience in leather fashion accessories product development, sourcing, and/or production. With at least 4 years managing a team of 4+ direct reports
Experience working with both domestic and import factories
Strong organizational, interpersonal and negotiation skills
Strong math and collaborative skills
PLM experience required
Strong proficiency in Excel and Google Suite required
Ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities and can work with a strong sense of accuracy and urgency
Proficiency in reading and understanding tech packs and bill of material
Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs
Preferred
WFX experience a plus
Expert understanding of patternmaking and construction of handbags preferred
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family covered
Flex Spending Accounts and Transportation Management Accounts
Life and Long-term disability insurance for peace of mind
Paid vacation, personal days, and sick time to help you recharge
Guardian ancillary plans for added protection and flexibility
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support for life's challenges
401(k) with company match to help you build a strong financial future
A fully stocked kitchen with healthy snacks and beverages
Monthly catered lunches to bring the team together
Quarterly team-building events, including meaningful volunteer outings throughout the Los Angeles community
Company
Clare V.
Clare V is an e-commerce company selling luxury leather handbags, apparel, accessories, and footwear designed by Clare Vivier.
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$1.33M2021-01-08Series Unknown· $1.33M
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