Associate Product Development Manager

Talbots is a leading omni-channel specialty retailer of women's clothing, shoes and accessories. Established in 1947, we are known for modern classic style that's both timeless and timely, fine quality craftsmanship and gracious service. At Talbots relationships are key to our business; we hire individuals who bring new ideas, understand smart risk-taking, and can enhance our thriving culture. We are committed to offering modern classic style for every body type through a full range of sizes, inclusive to every woman.

About the role

The Associate Product Development Manager will own and drive the product development process to achieve brand-appropriate designs through collaboration with cross-functional teams and agents/vendors. This role supports the woven tops, dresses, and skirts categories.

Responsibilities

• Possess raw material knowledge (fabric/trim), product knowledge, and ability to create solutions relating to cost, time, capacity, and quality standards.
• Partner with Design and Sourcing from inception throughout development, ensuring product details meet aesthetic and cost direction as well as bulk production criteria within the timeline.
• Assist in sourcing raw materials (trims and factory-sourced garment packages) with Design, understanding aesthetic and optimizing costs.
• Request and track tailoring samples, protos, mockups, washes, and new trims.
• Enter raw material information in the product life management system (Bamboo Rose) for both trims and fabrics.
• Create and maintain seasonal allocation charts to streamline supplier selection and allocation processes.
• Invite offices/vendors in PLM to view tech packs after reviewing allocation.
• Address and resolve vendor inquiries relating to initial tech pack release.
• Manage style changes and open issues throughout the product development process.
• Update PLM to incorporate all changes post initial tech pack creation, except artwork or brand-new styles.
• Order and organize line presentation samples, track deliveries, troubleshoot delays, manage risk, and ensure sample accuracy once received.
• Communicate concerns with cross-functional teams.
• Attend and collaborate in key business meetings to support product development by making necessary updates in PLM and communicating with overseas partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 4+ years’ experience in Product Development or Sourcing.
• Extensive product knowledge of woven and tailored products.
• In-depth knowledge of raw materials and garment construction.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, Excel, and PLM systems (Bamboo Rose preferred).
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Teams and Adobe Illustrator is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational capabilities.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and divisions.
• Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Merchandise discount at select KnitWell Group brands, subject to each brand’s discount policies.
• Support for individual development plus career mobility within the KnitWell Group family of brands.
• Culture of giving back: local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match to eligible nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic activities.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(K) retirement plan.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid time off and holidays.

Pay

The target salary range for this role is $80,000. Factors such as qualifications, relevant experience, and skills will be considered in any job offer.

Schedule

This position works in a hybrid model, with four days per week in the NYC office and one day per week worked remotely.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without sponsorship. This is a regular, full-time position located in the New York office.