Position Summary
The Senior Product Officer leads the strategic planning and execution of the product development lifecycle, ensuring timely development milestones. This role oversees the transition from initial design concepts to production-ready prototypes, managing product quality, timelines, and cross-functional collaboration. The Senior Product Officer serves as a key decision-maker in product design, technical development, and vendor management.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development Leadership:
- Oversee the entire product lifecycle, from concept to production-ready approval.
- Lead the development of comprehensive technical packages and ensure all design specifications, licensing regulations and quality standards are met.
- Maintain accountability for delivering products that align with brand aesthetic, brand positioning and market needs.
Fit, Construction, and Quality Oversight:
- Direct live fit sessions to evaluate and refine garment fit, construction, and quality.
- Approve final grading guidelines and ensure execution accuracy across all sizes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Partner with design, technical, and production teams to align on design direction and technical feasibility.
- Collaborate with vendors and agents to resolve challenges related to garment engineering, ensuring solutions are both creative and practical.
Vendor and Sample Management:
- Drive pre-production sample development, ensuring adherence to design intent and construction standards.
- Manage relationships with overseas vendors, providing concise feedback on prototypes and addressing sample comments.
Technical Expertise:
- Oversee the maintenance and updating of design information in PLM systems.
- Leverage technical knowledge of fabric, garment construction, and embellishment to guide product development.
Market Insight:
- Continuously monitor market trends, competitive landscapes, and customer insights to identify opportunities for product innovation.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Product Development, or related field required.
- 12+ years of progressive experience in the apparel or fashion industry, including leadership roles in product development.
Skills and Expertise:
- Deep technical knowledge of embellishment techniques, fabric properties, and garment construction.
- Proficient in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and PLM systems.
- Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and meet strict deadlines.
Additional Requirements:
- Proven experience in vendor management, including international partnerships.
- Ability to travel internationally as needed to troubleshoot production issues and ensure quality standards.
- Strong visual and color sensibility with the ability to translate design vision into technical execution.
Compensation and Benefits
Maxima offers competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications. Full-time employees are eligible for comprehensive benefits, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Professional development opportunities.
Maxima is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, or other legally protected characteristics.
Job Type: Full-time / On-site