What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Product Development Specialist position at Dorfman Milano?
About Dorfman Milano
Dorfman Milano, a 100 year-old leader in the headwear industry, designs, sources, and distributes a diverse portfolio of headwear across various channels, from major retailers to independent boutiques. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we offer a range of options, including Made in the USA products from our Texas factory. We are currently seeking a dynamic Sr. Product Development Specialist to join our growing team.
The Role:
As a senior product Development Specialist, you will be crucial in driving the product development process. You will work closely with the SVP of Creative and other team members to create innovative, high-quality products that align with business goals and exceed customer expectations. You will lead product development initiatives, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and work directly with customers and suppliers to ensure seamless execution from concept to production. This role requires a self-starter who is independent, detail-oriented, and comfortable in front of customers to gather requirements and provide guidance.
Major Duties & Responsibilities:
- Lead the product development process from ideation to production, collaborating with design, sourcing, and cross-functional teams.
- Partner directly with customers to understand requirements, validate product selections, guide decision-making, and ensure product approval before production.
- Handle all outdoor and western product development categories with expertise.
- Maintain accurate and detailed product specifications, approvals, and records within PLM.
- Build strong, resilient relationships with suppliers to ensure top-quality headwear at competitive pricing while meeting compliance standards.
- Manage and enforce adherence to a disciplined seasonal development calendar to meet timelines and achieve product launch goals.
- Implement policies and procedures that enhance department operations and optimize the development of lifecycles.
- Stay updated on best practices, methodologies, and apparel/accessories development processes.
- Provide mentorship to Product Development team members, including Aurora.
- Act as a problem solver who can think outside the box and offer innovative solutions.
- Travel up to 20% as needed to collaborate with customers, suppliers, and team members.
Requirements & Qualifications:
- Experience: 3 years of product development experience.
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Accessory Design, Fashion Design, Marketing, or related field.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software, Microsoft Suite, and product testing protocols. Blue Cherry PLM experience is a plus!
- Attention to detail: with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively engage with all levels of leadership and external partners.
- Collaboration: Ability to work cross-functionally and problem-solve with internal teams and external customers.
- Time Management: Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Prior manufacturing experience is a plus!
Why Join Dorfman Milano?
- 100 years of history in the headwear industry, join a company with a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.
- Work in a collaborative environment that values strategic problem-solving and innovation.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.