What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Product Development position at SDC Designs?
The Director of Product Development leads product development for a division of SDC Designs LLC, one of the largest jewelry wholesalers in the United States. This is a customer-facing leadership role. The Director runs product development calls with customers, takes in their direction and feedback, and works hand in hand with the PD, CAD, and sampling teams to bring products to life according to customer requirements.
Beyond customer work, this person is responsible for building out SDC’s own proprietary line, pushing into new materials and techniques, and shaping creative directions that help the company grow.
This is a high-visibility role for a creative and technically strong leader who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. Experience in and a passion for jewelry is required.
Key Responsibilities:
• Customer Product Development: Run product development calls with customers. Listen carefully to their feedback, direction, and brand needs, then turn those conversations into clear briefs and next steps for internal teams.
• Team Coordination: Work directly with the Product Development, CAD, and Sampling teams to make sure products are developed on time, on spec, and in line with what the customer expects.
• Proprietary Line Development: Build and grow SDC’s own product line by trying new techniques, testing different materials and finishes, and exploring creative directions that set our offerings apart.
• Trend and Innovation: Stay close to what is happening in the market. Identify new materials, manufacturing methods, and design trends that can inform fresh product concepts and open up new business.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Account Management, Sales, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to make sure nothing falls through the cracks from concept through production.
• Organization and Process: Keep product development timelines, tracking systems, and reporting tight so that everyone has visibility into where things stand across all active projects.
• Quality and Standards: Make sure every product that comes out of the development process meets SDC’s standards for craftsmanship, quality, and brand consistency.
• Strong technical jewelry background, including hands-on knowledge of precious metals, gemstones, CAD, casting, finishing, and assembly
• Experience leading customer-facing product development in the jewelry or luxury goods space
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, comfortable engaging with major retail partners
• Highly organized, able to manage multiple development projects across accounts at the same time
• Collaborative by nature, with a track record of leading cross-functional teams toward shared goals
• Creative thinker who has introduced new product ideas, materials, or techniques that drove real business results
• Experience in and a passion for jewelry is required
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Short Term & Long-Term Disability
- Training & Development