Sr. Product Developer

The Senior Product Developer for Bags is the lead co-creation partner for Design, responsible for translating design vision into innovative, high-quality products, that embody creativity and technical excellence.

This role is entrusted with the full responsibility of driving, influencing, and managing complex development processes from initial concept through prototyping & commercialization, ensuring meticulous attention to luxury execution, design intent, superior quality and fit.

Critical to success is effective calendar management as well as seamless collaboration and communication with cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional products that meet strategic objectives.

About The Role:

• Drive, manage, and influence the development of assigned bag styles from concept to commercialization, integrating innovation (like vendor 3d capabilities) at all stages to optimize efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate closely with Design as a co-creation partner, to bring creative vision to life from concept & prototyping through commercialization. Incorporating innovation such as 3D visualizations when available.
• Drive innovation by staying on the forefront of industry trends and technological advancements.
• Apply deep knowledge of fabrics and their unique characteristics that are suitable for accessory and bag construction, supported by insights gained from innovation such as 3D/AI simulations (vendor & market research)
• Oversee the creation of physical samples and prototypes, ensuring they meet established standards and improvements, design intent, and calendar deliverables.
• Lead analysis to ensure quality standards and performance are met for the brand in a way that is innovative, ensuring products meet both creative and technical requirements.
• Conduct and lead style reviews, facilitating clear communication of technical and functional requirements to all stakeholders.
• Partner with vendors and suppliers to optimize production processes and drive efficiency gains and enhance product quality.
• Develop detailed product specifications through accurate Tech Packs, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in development
• Create and manage Bill of Materials (BOM) to optimize production accuracy and streamline material sourcing processes.
• Collaborate strategically with Design, Sourcing, and Quality teams to achieve commercialization and exceed quality goals.
• Partner with vendors and MD on material development and sourcing strategies to achieve design and cost objectives.
• Collaborate with Sourcing and Finance to conduct cost analysis and margin assessment, balancing design integrity and functionality to meet financial targets effectively.
• Maintain alignment with product calendars, providing transparent status updates and risk analysis to key stakeholders.
• Support Quality Assurance and Sourcing in resolving production issues promptly and efficiently.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through feedback sharing and staying on the forefront of innovation, market trends, consumer preferences, competitor products and technological advancements.
• Collaborate closely with Merchandising and Product Education teams to ensure accurate product information and alignment with needs.
• Collaborating, partnering, and aligning with other Product Developers to ensure consistency across product type (i.e. construction standards, process, and sharing of best practices) as well as fostering proficiency in garment technology to elevate team capabilities.

About You:

• 5+ years of working experience within an Accessory and Bag Development Role
• Education in Industrial Design, Product Design, Fashion Design preferred
• A Degree in Design is an asset
• Proficiency in PLM, Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator & photoshop.
• 3D/AI platforms a plus.
• Expertise technical knowledge of accessory and bag construction techniques, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Experience with cost analysis, production, manufacturing, and sourcing
• Knowledge of sustainable practices in bags and similar product types a plus
• Exceptional communication skills, adept at fostering collaboration across global teams and translating creative visions into tangible outcomes.
• Detail-oriented with robust organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities, essential for managing complex projects and deadlines.
• Experience in leading teams and direct reports in a solution focused manner
• Proactive problem solver with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation, driven by a commitment to excellence in product development and quality.
• Thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, embodying an entrepreneurial spirit and a dedication to achieving organizational objectives through strategic thinking and collaborative effort.