Product Development Officer

Hiring: January 2014
Work Week: 6 days week with weekend work whenever needed to deliver trainings.
CV submitted no later than January 15th,2014
Areas of responsibility:
• Create thematic concept boards, initiate and direct original design concepts according to merchandise plans and schedules including: purchasing market samples, compiling inspiration references, rendering technical drawings, and providing match samples, where applicable.
• Maintain a strong sense of program design aesthetic throughout the design of all merchandise.
• Research and develop strategies for program refreshes, new craft categories and tools. Create presentations for partners and buyers.
• Build a strong relationship with merchant counterpart by developing strong understanding of business; inclusive of specific sales, industry trends and bestseller factors and specific product cost factors.
• Transfer all necessary design specifications to licensing partners. Manage direct communication regarding specific product development with partners up to final sample approval. Keep merchants updated in all communications.
• Create and maintain formalized record of design revisions, correspondence and approvals. Maintain project communication consistent with department standards.
• Partner with product management team to maintain clear and concise communication to meet all product deadlines and keep programs on track.
• Purchase market samples as reference.
Qualifications
• Bachelors Degree in Design or related fields
• Minimum2 years professional experience
• Ability to work with various styles
• Capable of traveling when the need arises
• Ready to work with merchants in the field to prototype products