Production Specialist

Summary:

The Production Specialist plays a key role in managing the full production lifecycle

from development handoff through final delivery. This position provides advanced support to

the Production and Product Development teams by overseeing vendor communication,

monitoring WIP, managing production timelines, and ensuring all products meet quality, cost,

and delivery expectations.

The Production Specialist handles more complex programs and vendors, analyzes production

risks, proactively solves issues, and supports continuous improvement across the vendor base.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Production Management

• Manage day-to-day communication with overseas and domestic vendors to ensure

timely production and accurate delivery of goods.

• Own a designated category or set of vendors, serving as the primary contact for

production execution.

• Review production status, proactively identify delays or risks, and drive corrective

actions with vendors.

• Track all goods from PO placement through WIP, final inspection, and shipment to

ensure deadlines are met.

• Validate all production details including MOQ requirements, carton quantity, costing,

packaging, and labeling.

• Partner with Product Development and Design to ensure handoff packs are accurate

and production ready.

Issue Resolution

• Troubleshoot and resolve product, quality, or spec issues by coordinating with internal

partners such as Design, QA, Product Development, and Sales.

• Review test reports and ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory

requirements.

• Lead first-level root cause analysis for production delays, defects, or vendor non-

compliance.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with Logistics to confirm packing list approvals, shipment schedules, and routing

instructions.

• Collaborate closely with Planning/Forecasting teams to support on-time purchasing and

replenishment.

• Support Sales with delivery updates, production status summaries, and customer-

specific requirements.

Cost & Vendor Management

• Execute vendor chargebacks, discounts, and compliance deductions as needed.

• Evaluate vendor performance on quality, timeliness, and compliance; provide

recommendations for improvement.

• Analyze production data to identify trends or recurring issues within the vendor base.

Process Ownership & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain and update production trackers, calendars, SOPs, and vendor guidelines.

• Ensure adherence to all production policies and standard operating procedures.

• Recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and visibility across

the production workflow.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Business, Retail Merchandising, Apparel

Merchandising/ Design or a related field, preferred.

• 5 years of experience in apparel production or sourcing.

• Experience managing overseas vendors and full production lifecycles.

• Strong understanding of garment construction, testing requirements, trims, and

technical details.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced

environment.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel (advanced preferred), and production/MRP

systems.

• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret production data and identify risks.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Self-starter with the ability to make decisions independently and escalate when

appropriate.

Language Ability:

• English required; additional languages a plus (Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, Spanish

preferred).

• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, test reports, compliance requirements, and

vendor communications.

Computer Skills:

• Proficiency in MS Excel, Outlook, MRP/ERP systems, and production software.

• Experience with PLM/PDM systems preferred.