The Product Development Associate will report to the Vice President of Product Development and will assist in all aspects of the product development process from concept to market introduction to the retail sales shelf.
Essential Job Functions: Work with the client's design team on creation of new product assortments annually with a goal to be in stock for market introductions.
Assist in maintaining a product development time and action calendar
Track progress of new developments
Develop spec standards for new products, as needed
Develop relationship with existing vendors to develop and sample newness.
Manage sample process for timely delivery for photo shoots, market introductions, sales rep kits.
Develop and establish costing for new collections
Manage testing of products with outside laboratory when necessary
Manage the process for product packaging and product labeling information, develop directly with packaging vendors.
Work closely with production to pass along all specs of final product for bulk ordering.
Inspect shipments of new products received at warehouse as needed or required
Communicate and resolve quality control issues with suppliers
Daily communication with overseas and domestic facilities and packaging suppliers
Travel possibilities - domestic and/or international
Requirements:3-5+ years of experience in product development, home industry a plus with a concentration on hard goods, accessories and fragrance.
Strong knowledge of product development, manufacturing techniques and materials in the world of hard goods and decorative accessories.
Possess strong computer skills- Word and Excel, Photoshop a plus
Demonstrate strong organizational skills
Excellent follow-up skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, multi-task, adapt quickly to change, and reprioritize when new problems or projects arise.
Must be flexible with the ability to work both independently and handle multiple projects at once.
A strong work ethic with passion, curiosity and willingness and desire to work in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.