Product Development Manager, Denim

Summary: The Denim Product Development Manager supports the denim team with key processes throughout the product development phase; namely factory communication, fabric sourcing, wash development, BOMs and sample logistics. The role reports to the Sr. Director, Product Development RTW.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Work closely with Sr Design Director, Denim daily.

• Provide leadership to Product Development Assistant.

• Review all proto and SMS tech packs to ensure all correct information is entered such as: specs, material, trims, wash, and finishing details.

• Responsible for inputting and updating RLM information from first proto until final SMS (style number, sketch, style descriptions, BOMS, etc. – create raw materials seasonally).

• Launch out-of-house and in-house developments with our overseas factories and in-house atelier for both proto and SMS. Confirm clarity with each vendor once styles are launched.

• Order all trims/fabrics/materials needed for sampling for both local and overseas factories.

• Gather necessary materials/standards/sew-bys needed for factories.

• Partner with design to make wash comments on all developments.

• Maintain database of denim fit and wash names.

• Manage updates of the physical and digital design boards with fabric and wash details by group.

• Follow up as deadline dates approach to make sure vendors are on track.

• Partner with design to complete product knowledge descriptions. In-depth descriptions of each fit, including design inspiration, trim, fabric/wash for every sku offered.

• Launch and keep track of wash development for new season based on direction from design.

• Attend and provide necessary feedback/information at all denim related sketch reviews, and proto/SMS reviews.

• Maintain and organize fabric and trim libraries.

• Request FDS, lead-times and MOQs from fabric suppliers.

• Meet and visit denim mills as needed.

• Work with trim department for trim needs and track seasonal trim development proto/SMS needs.

• Track and coordinate print & custom color development on fabrics.

• Maintain sample WIP chart from development - Track and receive all samples and enter them appropriately in receiving log.

• Maintain system for storing & retrieving samples.

• Track all sample hand-off timelines and dates to ensure on-time pass offs.

• Manage alterations for SMS/protos as needed.

• Issue development POs & process invoices – for samples, fabrics, printing etc.

• Track denim team expenses and make sure team adheres to budget.

• Assist with building and management of product development calendar; distribute calendar to factories.

• Coordinate sample etas and schedule meetings accordingly.

• Ensure that the department calendar is executed according to plan – book all denim related meetings.

• Ensure all cross-functional partners are informed of calendar implications for sample development.

• Help allocate development to factories seasonally.

• Daily vendor communication – midtown, Turkey, China, Europe.

• Work cross functionally with our graphics, trims, and materials teams.

• Partner with accessories team for accessories development

Position requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree.

• 5 years of experience, preferably in denim.

• Must be proficient/intermediate in Adobe InDesign/Illustrator, Microsoft Suite, RLM or similar systems.

• Must be able to manage samples, BOMS, department calendars.

• Ability to work cross functional with various departments.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong eye for detail and precision.

• Experience working with an in-house atelier.

• Highly organized with meeting sample deadlines.

• Experienced with product and wash development.

• Ability to create and maintain seasonal line-lists and fit overviews.

• Ability to work onsite 5 days/week with limited flexibility

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer M/D/F/V

In compliance with the New York City salary transparency requirements, the potential salary for this position is from $85,000 to $95,000, which represents a range commensurate with experience, knowledge, and skills required.