Job Description

We are seeking an exceptionally creative and experienced Senior Product Developer with a strong sense of fashion, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the product development cycle to lead design and creation for various fashion accessories. This role requires a strong creative vision, leadership skills, and advanced technical expertise in design software.

As a leader in the Design Department, you will be instrumental in creating and developing product programs for growing retail channels. You will be responsible for applying critical thinking, leading the development of soft and hard goods, and providing mentorship to other Designers. A thorough understanding of product sourcing, costing, and factory relations is essential, as this role involves designing to source and managing the entire process from raw materials to the finished product.

This permanent opportunity requires the talent to work 3-5 days per week in the office depending on business needs, in Oakville, Ontario . The role may require travel to the US and internationally for market research and factory communications, a passport is a must!

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, creation, and execution of product programs, focusing on soft goods (e.g., aprons, oven mitts, cut and sew accessories) and hard goods (e.g., home goods, coin banks, sunglasses, luggage tags, umbrellas).
• Maintain a deep focus on trending fashion (including social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest) and accurately interpret these trends into viable product designs.
• Develop fluid collections for various national and private label brands, ensuring a strong mix of accessories.
• Manage design timelines and budgets, ensuring efficient project completion and adherence to deadlines.
• Lead the product sourcing process, including selecting raw materials and working with new and existing overseas factories.
• Create, manage, and maintain costing files, demonstrating a thorough understanding of pricing to design within cost constraints and negotiate effectively with factories.
• Produce complex, high-quality, print-ready artwork using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, including All-Over Prints (AOP) and custom graphics.
• Create and execute detailed spec packages for overseas factories, including material information, technical sketches, and print artwork.
• Communicate regularly with overseas factories to ensure development sample standards and timelines are met.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to align designs with brand identity, market demands, and price targets.
• Manage, mentor and guide junior designers on design techniques, project management, and current trends.
• Travel domestically (e.g., Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal) and internationally for market research, trend analysis, competitive shopping, and factory visits.

Requirements

• 6+ years of professional experience in design and accessory construction, with a portfolio demonstrating expertise in soft and hard goods.
• Post-secondary education in Fashion Design or Graphic Design .
• Expert-level proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (10/10) and advanced proficiency in Adobe Photoshop (8/10) .
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Level 5-7).
• Demonstrated knowledge of fashion trends, consumer behavior, and the commercial aspects of the fashion industry .
• Extensive experience in product sourcing and product development from raw materials to finished product, including managing factory communications and costing.
• Proven ability to recognize, interpret, and apply social media and cultural fashion trends into commercial designs.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, able to provide senior-level advice and challenge the status quo.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and international partners.
• Experience in Travel Accessories or Home Goods is considered an asset.
• Familiarity with modern collaborative tools, including ChatGPT , and an aptitude for a tech-savvy, paper-light work environment.
• Must possess a valid passport and be legally entitled to work in Canada (no work visa sponsorship is provided).

If you are a passionate and highly experienced Product Developer ready to take a leadership role in creating exciting accessory programs for national and private label brands, we encourage you to apply now. Submit your resume and portfolio detailing your relevant experience and how your vision can contribute to the success of our client's design department.

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