Position Summary
We are looking for a Product Developer with strong sourcing and technical development experience, capable of leading product creation from concept through bulk production. The ideal candidate has a proven track record working with suppliers across China, Bangladesh, Turkey, Vietnam, and other key manufacturing hubs.
The Product Developer will manage the development of both apparel and accessories, ensuring commercial viability, cost targets, fit quality, material performance, and timely delivery in alignment with seasonal calendars.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development
- Create and own complete Tech Packs based on design briefs and material direction.
- Manage product development from proto to sales samples and final PPS confirmation.
- Coordinate fittings with suppliers, collect feedback, update specifications, and ensure product accuracy.
- Follow up with factories on construction, finishing techniques, trims, and material execution.
- Analyze factory comments and approve development milestones (trims, construction, fit, accessories components, branding).
Sourcing & Costing
- Manage sourcing of fabrics, trims, packaging, and finished goods from target markets (China, Bangladesh, Turkey, Vietnam, etc.).
- Identify and onboard new suppliers and material vendors when needed to support quality, price optimization, and innovation.
- Negotiate costing to achieve target margins, ensuring value engineering opportunities while maintaining quality.
- Assess supplier capabilities, production capacities, and compliance standards.
Technical Execution
- Collaborate with factory technical teams to ensure correct fit, construction, functionality, and material suitability (no in-house pattern maker).
- Approve lab dips, strike-offs, trims, metal components, hardware for accessories, mock-ups, wash processes, and packaging elements.
- Conduct material performance checks and ensure compliance with brand standards, quality benchmarks, and regulatory guidelines.
Operational Management & Production
- Track development timelines and proactively communicate delays, solutions, and risk assessments.
- Own proto and SMS tracking ensuring deadlines align with seasonal calendars.
- Take ownership of the production phase once development concludes, ensuring bulk QC alignment with approved PPS standards.
- Liaise with suppliers to track production status, fabric readiness, trims procurement, test approvals, and shipment coordination.
Education & Background
- Degree in Fashion Design, Product Development, Garment Technology, Pattern Making, or relevant field.
- Knowledge of garment construction is required; knowledge of CLO3D is an advantage.
Experience
- 37 years of product development experience in apparel and/or accessories.
- Proven sourcing experience with China, Bangladesh, Turkey, Vietnam (mandatory).
- Experience working with streetwear, sportswear, performance fabrics, technical garments, and/or accessories is preferred.
Technical Skills
- Strong technical understanding of fabrics, trims, patternmaking principles, fit, garment construction, and accessories components (hardware, branding, packaging).
- Intermediate to advanced skills with PLM systems.
- Proficient in Excel, Adobe software, technical drawing, and measurement specs review.
Soft Skills
- Strong communicator, detail-oriented, quality-driven, proactive, and collaborative.
- Able to manage tight seasonal deadlines and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong negotiation skills with a commercial mindset.
- Problem-solving approach and ability to work independently with factories.
