Associate Production Manager

About the Role

As Associate Production Manager, you will drive the execution of product development, assisting in the communication of all product needs to the cross‑functional team. You will also help drive the Concept to Customer (CTC) process for a brand or category.

Responsibilities

• Execute production process from vendor award to in‑store delivery.
• Guide cross‑functional team as a production expert.
• Manage flex and contingency needs and replenishment with partners.
• Obtain projections for capacity management.
• Communicate development details and product confirmation with vendors.
• Ensure seasonal calendar deadlines and milestones are met.
• Own Timing and Action Calendar management.
• Participate in cross‑functional meetings to communicate time and action (TNA) and cost.
• Drive on‑time deliveries through strong process and partnership.
• Train Production Coordinator and assist with meetings.
• Lead vendor meetings and category sessions.
• Guide product pre‑development and cost engineering.
• Align development with sourcing, materials and merchandising strategies.
• Execute product development to meet business needs and cost guidance.
• Track and report progress to meet corporate goals.
• Support cost execution through structured events (RFQ) and seasonal negotiation (Costing – Home & Accessories/Footwear only).
• Execute cost analysis for owned brands or categories at the cost component level and higher macro‑economic impact.
• Execute vendor selection and program award.
• Drive partnerships with the cross‑functional team to execute sourcing strategies.
• Assist in rolling up costing and sharing with merchant/design partners.
• Work with sourcing and cross‑functional teams to facilitate new vendor onboarding or changes in fulfillment types.
• Facilitate cost prototype meetings with design.
• Additional tasks may be assigned.

Requirements

• 2+ years of retail or product development experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Drive Office Suite.
• Travel may be required.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree.
• Strong aptitude for math and knowledge of retail math.
• Expert knowledge of product life cycle, process, and supply chain.

Schedule

This role is based at our Corporate Office in Menomonee Falls, WI. You’ll work onsite from Monday through Thursday, with the option to work remotely on Fridays.