Assistant Product Development manager - Contract position

Key Responsibilities

Support the ideation, development, and execution of product strategies aligned with vendor capabilities and production goals.

Understand how product development impacts design and merchandising decisions, incorporating category and vendor strategies.

Act as a liaison between brand teams and Asia-based product teams to maintain alignment and ensure timely responses to business needs.

Collaborate with cross-functional partners to ensure financial targets and cost guidance are achieved.

Provide quick-turn (flash) garment costing, ensuring all cost components are accurately captured.

Maintain and update Bills of Materials (BOM) within the PLM system to support effective product execution.

Communicate with regional teams to identify product development or execution challenges and help resolve them promptly.

Monitor Product-to-Market (P2M) calendar milestones and escalate risks that may impact timelines.

Support seasonal planning to minimize pre-line fabric commitments and manage any associated liabilities.

Execute category product development strategies that align with broader production strategies and business objectives.

Required Qualifications

Experience in global product development, preferably within apparel or retail, with exposure to design, merchandising, and vendor/category management.

Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate risks and manage multiple challenges across cost, supplier, and timeline constraints.

Proven ability to collaborate and influence cross-functional teams within a global, matrixed environment.

Demonstrated learning agility, curiosity, and openness to feedback while continuously building new skills.

Clear and effective communication skills, with the ability to present data and insights that support business decisions.

Experience managing specific product categories in coordination with cross-functional teams and international sourcing partners.