Product Development Manager - Retail Soft Goods & Hard Goods - OEG

Manage the development of new retail products for Opry Entertainment Group (OEG). Oversee the product life cycle from trend research to custom art development, vendor art management, merchandising plans, and web integration. Reports to Director of Product Development.

• Manage designs and prototypes with vendors, ensuring proper, timely execution and quality control, including creating detailed tech specs and developing artwork.
• Review and edit incoming design concepts to ensure commercial viability and adherence to brand standards, cost matrix, product quality, and uniqueness of the brand.
• Manage product quote sheets, line sheets, and project updates.
• Maintain and understand brand aesthetics in the development of an innovative product line and brand standard guidelines.
• Communicate with the product development team and vendors to ensure proper execution of prints and applications.
• Work with vendors to ensure accurate execution of designs and packaging while managing technical specifications.
• Collaborate with Category Managers in the selection, pricing, and purchasing of merchandise for a profitable assortment for assigned categories, including operational commodity items.
• Research and incorporate current trends into designs, ensuring consistency with brand aesthetics. Analyze market trends seasonally and competitor offerings to inform design strategy.
• Ensure appropriate use of trademarks and copyrights.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

• Degree in Apparel Design, Product Design, Graphic Design and/or Fashion Merchandising preferred or equivalent experience required

Experience

• 3+ years in product design and/or sourcing experience
• Experience with Oracle Fusion preferred
• Experience with PLM a plus

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of product development processes and industry trends in accessories, apparel, home goods, giftware and glassware
• Highly creative with the ability to filter such creativity through the reality of brands and consumer
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and manage time to ensure deadlines are met
• Strong computer and graphic design skills; intermediate to expert in Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop