PRODUCT MANAGER - WOMEN'S APPAREL
Natick, MA
This is a hybrid role consisting of in office days as well as remote work.
This role is fashion and apparel based. Candidates will need significant experience in both fashion and apparel as a Product Manager.
We are NIC+ZOE, a fiercely female clothing brand founded by designer, Dorian Lightbown. Founded in Boston in 2004, the brand is widely recognized for its knitwear, distinctive patterns, and sophisticated fits. Our customizable, versatile pieces are purposefully designed to help women feel just as good on the inside as they look on the outside.
Core Responsibilities
- Seeking a passionate individual who is highly organized and proactive to oversee Knitwear and Wovens development
- Partner with Design and Merchandising to execute creative vision and develop high quality apparel with our manufacturing partners.
- Manage internal deadlines with Technical and Design teams to ensure on time delivery of fit and sales samples.
- Responsible for negotiations of garment costs and pre-costing, developing a sourcing strategy and offering creative solutions to provide the best costs and maintain high level of quality.
- Communicate on all development issues daily with agents and suppliers.
- Maintain all sample and development records· Review and approve garment testing reports and final care instructions
- Partner with Design to review and approve samples
- Attend garment fittings
- Provide product knowledge and web copy to internal partners
- Follow up on all quality and customer service feedback, resolving issues with related teams.
- Color evaluation – experience approving color in yarns or textiles preferred
Key Strategic Partners
- Chief Creative Officer
- Director of Product Development
- Director of Merchandising
- Director of Design
- Designers
- Technical Designers
Reporting Structure
- Position reports directly to Director of Product Development + Technical Design
Skill Set Requirements and Qualifications
- Ability to multitask and manage shifting priorities.
- Experience working with textiles and sourcing of fabrics with overseas mills.
- Technical understanding of manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of garment costing inputs and strong ability to negotiate to meet margin goals.
- Ability to negotiate development time and action calendars with overseas partners.
- Experience with color approval.
- Garment testing experience a plus.
- Outstanding organizational skills with demonstrated ability to prioritize workload and attention to detail
- Clear communication, both written and verbal.
- Extreme affinity to a detail-oriented business and a commitment to accuracy.
- Be a champion for change that improves efficiencies and delivers results.
- Leadership skills to develop relationships with internal and external partners.
Education + Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in Apparel Product Development
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel; experience with Photoshop, Microsoft Access, and PLM is a plus.
