Product Development Manager jobs in United States
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Retrospec · 17 hours ago

Product Development Manager

Retrospec is a company based throughout Southern California committed to inclusive access to nature and fostering a love for the outdoors. They are seeking a Product Development Manager to lead the growth of their Water Sports Category, focusing on inflatable Paddleboards, Kayaks, and related accessories, while managing product development and maintaining strong relationships with manufacturers.

RetailWellnessManufacturingSportsFitnessOutdoorsSporting Goods
Hiring Manager
Nina Belden
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Responsibilities

Serve as the primary product designer for the Water Category, and accessories design from concept through production
Review and approve factory drawings, CAD files, technical specifications, and prototypes to ensure design and performance standards are met
Lead prototyping, testing, revisions, and final product sign-off to ensure functionality, durability, and customer experience
Own and manage the overall Water category strategy, including long-term assortment planning and seasonal growth initiatives
Research consumer needs, market insights, and sales trends to recommend product expansion opportunities to upper management
Conduct competitor research and monitor industry trends to ensure the category remains competitive and aligned with market demand
Lead product development planning, including new product launches, line refreshes, and product lifecycle management
Build and maintain strong long-term relationships with manufacturers and vendor partners to support innovation, quality, and reliability
Ensure products meet performance, safety, and quality standards
Collaborate with Demand Forecasting and Inventory Planning teams to maintain product availability and support efficient inventory planning
Partner with Operations and Logistics teams to support inbound planning and ensure seasonal readiness for water category products
Analyze product performance through sales data, customer feedback, returns, and warranty claims to drive continuous product improvements
Collaborate with Customer Service to support customer education, improve product experience, and identify product enhancement opportunities
Work with Marketing, Creative, and eCommerce teams to develop product storytelling and ensure accurate product representation across all channels
Review and approve packaging designs, working closely with the graphic design team to ensure all graphics, product information, and branding elements are accurate and production-ready
Collaborate on pricing, promotional, and positioning strategies based on competitor benchmarking and market research
Identify and expand accessory and add-on opportunities (paddles, pumps, fins, leashes, bags, repair kits, etc.) to strengthen category performance and increase revenue
Willingness to travel occasionally, including domestic and international trips as needed

Qualification

Water Sports experienceProduct designAdobe Creative SuiteCAD softwareAnalytical skillsCommunication skillsProblem-solving skillsInterpersonal skills

Required

Industry experience is required, preferably within the Water Sports, Inflatable Paddle Board, Kayak, or SUP category
Strong knowledge of the category landscape, including competitors, distribution channels, marketing strategies, and sales operations/processes
Product design / Industrial design
Fluency in Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software
Experience creating tech packs and owner's manuals
Highly analytical with strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally
Bachelor's Degree required (or equivalent relevant experience)

Benefits

Competitive pay
Options for Medical, Dental, and Vision
401K Matching
Paid Vacation
Sick Time leave
Company Discounts
Company culture fosters a fun work environment
Strong emphasis on a Work-life balance
Opportunities for career advancement
Bonus Potential
Company social events such as dinners, holiday parties, and more!

Company

Retrospec

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Retrospec manufactures and distributes a range of bicycles, mountain bikes, e-bikes, and related accessories.

Funding

Current Stage
Growth Stage

Leadership Team

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Ely Alexander Khakshouri
CEO
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Company data provided by crunchbase