What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Development Manager position at Gibson Homewares?
Product Development Manager - Housewares
Full-Time, In-Office position, based in Los Angeles
About Gibson Homewares
Gibson Homewares is a leading U.S. manufacturer in the tabletop and housewares industry, with over 40 years of experience and four generations of family ownership. Headquartered near downtown Los Angeles, we design and distribute dinnerware, glassware, cookware, bakeware, cutlery, and kitchen tools for major U.S. and global retailers. Our brands include Gibson Elite, Gibson Home, Bloomhouse and Soho Lounge, along with partnerships with Martha Stewart, Calphalon, Sur La Table, Babish, Kenmore, Crock-Pot, Oster, Mr. Coffee and Peanuts. We are committed to a people-first culture-our employees are our top priority. Learn more: http://www.gibsonhomewares.com
Position Summary
The Product Development Manager (Housewares) leads the end‑to‑end development of cookware, bakeware, cutlery, and kitchen tools. This role manages overseas manufacturing partners, drives timelines, ensures product quality, and collaborates cross‑functionally to bring products from concept to market.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage product development lifecycle from concept through production
- Assign and oversee projects with overseas manufacturers (primarily Asia)
- Negotiate costs, timelines, and specifications with factory partners
- Monitor development milestones, resolve issues, and ensure on‑time delivery
- Collaborate with Creative, Sales, and Sourcing teams
- Ensure product specifications, costing, and timelines are accurately maintained in company systems
- Identify process improvements and cost‑saving opportunities
- Mentor and guide product development staff
Qualifications
- 3 years of product development management experience in housewares (cookware, bakeware, cutlery, kitchen tools, or related consumer goods)
- Demonstrated experience working with overseas manufacturing and sourcing
- Strong negotiation, project management, and problem‑solving skills
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
- Experience with ERP systems (Oracle or similar preferred)
- Mandarin language skills strongly preferred
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Must be able to work in or near Los Angeles, California
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay range: $80,000 - $90,000 annually (final compensation based on experience, skills, and qualifications)
- Benefits include medical, dental, paid time off, and retirement plans
Salary : $80,000 - $90,000