Senior, Product Development

Be part of an amazing story—Macy’s is more than just a store. We’re a story that’s captured the hearts and minds of America for more than 160 years, from innovations and traditions to the excitement of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and the wonder of the Thanksgiving Day Parade. We’ve been part of memorable moments and milestones for countless customers and colleagues.

About the role

The Senior, Development is a member of the Development team responsible for building and managing the Macy’s Private Brand program, taking ownership of assortment execution. The team plays a pivotal role in shaping the vision of Macy’s Private Brands and collaborates with Sourcing to attain the desired final product cost and meet Brand/Category Initial Mark Up targets for its products. You will work closely with design, buying, and sourcing teams to ensure the translation of design intent into an approved sample that aligns with the brand’s aesthetic, style, and fit requirements within specified cost and margin targets.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Buying and Planning counterparts to ensure department-level financial targets align with the assortment strategy; collaborate with Design to make necessary modifications.
• Work alongside Sourcing Associates to guarantee that all styles receive vendor allocation.
• Utilize the costing database with support from the Costing team to determine target costs based on product attributes, initial mark up goals, and retail prices.
• Review vendor cost breakdowns and escalate any costing issues; collaborate with Raw Materials and Design to propose engineering solutions if necessary.
• Communicate product details and specific meeting sample requirements to Overseas Office Merchant.
• Update and take ownership of first-cost style-level analysis, iterating as needed until the final style is approved.
• Update initial mark up roll-up at a style-level based on target cost, first cost (and iterations), and final cost; provide dashboard views of initial mark up roll-up to the Strategic Sourcing team.
• Partner with Overseas Office Merchant and Strategic Sourcing to ensure execution of cost negotiations and meeting established target cost/initial markup goals.
• Review the execution of all development samples and monitor line development activities throughout the season.
• Participate in Seasonal Prep and Line Development Meeting, Mid-Point/Pre-Line Review, and Line Review Meetings.
• Support the Product Lead with materials for Post Buy Recap, including program and style placements.
• Escalate any product-related issues (e.g., sample delivery timing, style execution, costing).
• Collaborate with Buying counterparts to manage in-season chase/open to buy opportunities.
• Communicate all purchase authorization/purchase order information to the Product Assistant and manage the accuracy and completeness of purchase order entry and tracking.
• Ensure that PLM is updated throughout the season by the Product Assistant.
• Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships with colleagues, customers, and communities.
• Track development and adoption rates for the area of responsibility.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in merchandising, product development, planning, or buying.
• Regularly required to sit, talk, hear; use hands/fingers to touch, handle, and feel.
• Occasionally required to move about the workplace and reach with hands and arms.
• Requires close vision.
• Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs.

Skills

• Assortment Execution: Demonstrate a strong ability to take ownership of assortment execution, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with Buying, Planning, Design, and Sourcing teams to streamline processes and support financial targets.
• Costing Expertise: Utilize a costing database to determine target costs based on product attributes, IMU goals, and retail prices; review vendor cost breakdowns and propose engineering solutions.
• Communication Skills: Practice open and continuous communication, keeping team members informed and presenting information clearly.
• Analytical Abilities: Update and own first-cost style-level analysis, iterate as needed, and update IMU Roll-Up based on target cost, first cost, and final cost.
• Strategic Thinking: Think creatively, strategically, and technically to support assortment strategy execution and navigate complex development challenges.
• Leadership and Interpersonal Skills: Exhibit excellent leadership, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration across functional lines.
• Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to evolving situations in the dynamic fashion industry, especially during milestone meetings.
• Negotiation Skills: Collaborate with OSO Merchant and Strategic Sourcing to ensure effective cost negotiations and meet target cost/IMU goals.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and comprehensive health and wellness coverage (medical, vision, dental, life, disability).
• 401(k) match to invest in your future.
• Paid time off and eight paid holidays.
• Continuous learning and leadership development opportunities.
• Merchandise discounts and performance-based incentives.
• Annual merit review.
• Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Colleague Resource Groups for community building and volunteer opportunities.