Manager of Product Development

CREATIVE GOODS

Manager, Product Development

THE OPPORTUNITY:

Creative Goods is a dynamic full-service merchandising company based in NYC with a bold vision for the entertainment space. Our experienced team of industry professionals works to establish partnerships that are built on trust, allowing us to better serve our clients through clear communication, a streamlined workflow, and creative product that captures the imagination.

THE ROLE:

The Manager, Product Development plays a crucial role in the agency’s ecosystem, managing the product lifecycle of every item we create and sell. This person will work side-by-side the account and creative teams to bring our client’s dreams to life. They are responsible for fostering key vendor relationships and managing production schedules (both internal and external) to ensure all timelines and deliverables are met. This position reports to the Executive Vice President and is based in our NYC garment district office, with the opportunity for a defined hybrid work-from-home schedule.    

RESPONSIBLITIES:

• Oversee global product sourcing and development for all agency projects—products for retail sale and bespoke gifts. 
• Own the product development life cycle, from sourcing and vendor management, production management, and delivery. 
• Assist with product line planning around sales and market trends. 
• Manage production schedule of agency-owned production facility based on client and inventory needs. 
• Alongside the purchasing team, prioritize vendor production schedules to meet all product deadlines. 
• Ensure all internal tracking tools (Monday.com) are regularly updated, flag any potential issues, and offer solutions to mitigate delays/setbacks.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with vendors and factories, with a focus on best quality and cost. 
• Work alongside art department to supply artwork to vendors and ensure physical samples match references approved by client and account team. 
• Track and troubleshoot quality control issues with vendors as they arise, and work to provide time and cost-efficient solutions. 

REQUIREMENTS:

• This role requires attention to detail, organization, stellar communication skills, and a relentlessly positive attitude.
• Thrives in a fast paced environment and excels at juggling multiple prioritize and meets deadlines consistently. 
• Be process-oriented and excel at plan development and execution. 
• Creatively, resourcefulness, and follow-through are also highly valued. 
• 2-3 years of experience in the promotional products industry, merchandising, or creative technical role. 
• 2 or 4-year college degree, or equivalent work experience. 
• Working knowledge of the promotional products space, including ASI and PPAI preferred.
• A critical thinker with a knack for solving problems proactively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and GSuite Apps (Docs, Sheets, Drive) is required. 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

The gross salary for this role is commensurate with experience and ranges between $60,000 to $80,000 annually—it is an exempt position and not eligible for overtime. As a full-time employee of Creative Goods Merchandise, LLC, this position is eligible to participate in the Company’s comprehensive benefits program following a 90-day waiting period for new enrollees. This program includes medical, dental, and vision care, core life, accidental death and dismemberment, and disability coverage. After a year of service in any position, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the 401(k)-retirement account. Benefits are subject to the changes Creative Goods may make from time to time to its benefits programs. 

CREATIVE GOODS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.