Product Development Manager

Our client, a reputable role player in footwear is seeking an experienced, results-driven, Product Development Manager based in Cape Town. This person will be responsible for managing our ranges and product offering to the market and will work closely with various department to do this. Reporting into the sales structure, strong sales/retail background from the apparel industry.
Behavioural Competency
• Strong leadership skills – able to motivate and drive team support towards achieving goals and meeting deadlines
• Ability to manage time effectively and perform well in high pressure environments
• Effective communication and collaborative skills – to work with cross functional teams
• Ability to apply logical reasoning and critical thinking for problem solving
• Attention to detail and organization skills
• Able to balance innovation with practicality
• Understanding of footwear construction and sustainable material practices is advantageous
Duties include the following, but not limited to:
Product Development
• Conceptualize and create digital illustrations of styles for product development, which is aligned to the company’s brand identity
• Work closely with production and supply chain teams to understand the factory’s capabilities and constraints for product development
• Conduct Trend research and preparation for critical path meetings
• Create Seasonal map sheets
• Build tech packs and supplier briefs
• Maintain CAD library and seasonal colour pallets
• Understand trade patterns and design in line with customer preferences
• Provide design input for Quick Response
Range Building
• Use market trends to build and maintain local and import ranges across all brands, accessories, and seasons
• Arrange and distribute samples for sales agents
• Manage on time tooling for all local manufacture ranges
Personnel Management
• Manage and oversee the development team, ensuring individual and department KPIs are met, through performance reviews, up to and including coaching, training, poor performance management and progressive corrective action
• Ensure the team adheres to policies and procedures, and execute discipline where required up to representing the company at disciplinary hearings and appeals
• Constantly drive motivation and innovation within the team
Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in industrial design, Product Design, Fashion Design or related field
• 5+ years proven experience in the apparel industry
• A strong portfolio showcasing design skills
• Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign or similar, and 3D modelling tools
• Basic understanding of CAD software, specific to footwear design
• Experienced with sketching and visualization
• Excellent understanding of current fashion trends and consumer behaviour
• Familiarity with trend forecasting tools
Salary: Market related