Product Development Coordinator

Product Development Coordinator

The Product Development Coordinator will work directly with partners in Design, Fabric R&D, Technical Design, Merchandising and Production to understand, interpret and execute key seasonal developments that meet aesthetic requirements and are in line with company sourcing strategy, cost targets, quality and testing standards. Must have the interest and ability to learn all aspects of fabric and garment manufacturing. Will organize, manage and communicate effectively to insure strong relationships with internal partners and external suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and own product development of assigned apparel product categories
• Clear understanding of product construction to guide Design team in style development that meets the intended aesthetic and supports departmental financial architecture.
• Collaborate with Fabric R&D to guide new fabric development within the sourcing strategy and supports departmental GBB architecture.
• Partner with design and cross functional teams as needed on cost engineer development styles.
• Own development allocation with suppliers in alignment with seasonal sourcing strategy.
• Initiate, request and manage all development samples for product category to ensure on time delivery.
• Liaison between Design, Fabric R&D and Suppliers - communicating standards, monitoring development, and troubleshooting challenges
• Participate in Key Seasonal Milestone meetings with Design, Merchants, Fabric R&D and Production.
• Work in collaboration with cross functional teams to gain forward alignment on any potential production, quality, and cost issues
• Manage daily communication with overseas suppliers. Own vendor & factory relationships in the development cycle including on-boarding, in season feedback, and hind sighting.
• Establish process disciplines to ensure continuity and clarity.
• Participate in Go-To-Market milestone meetings including travel to New York office as well as overseas as needed.
• Manage data entry and reporting that supports the seasonal sample development
• Ensure on time sample delivery for Seasonal Style Assortment meeting where style selections are finalized

Required Experience & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience
• Experience: 3-5 years of experience, product development/sourcing experience preferably within an apparel retail organization

Critical Skills & Attributes

• Self-motivated and self-directed with continuous desire to learn and grow.
• Can build & maintain productive and collaborative relationships with internal & external partners.
• Flexible and agile learner able to adapt to the changing needs of the business
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills with ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive problem solver able to trouble shoot and/or escalate issues effectively.
• Sense of urgency with creative problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of supporting a team environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint; Google Suite: Gmail, Sheets, Docs, Slides
• Knowledge of apparel production and related processes