About the position
Assistant Product Line Manager supports the Product Line Manager in developing and implementing strategies to drive the success of a specific product line or category that meet the needs of our target consumers. They also collaborate with cross-functional teams such as sales, marketing, and operations to ensure the smooth execution of product initiatives and meet business objectives. Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills are essential for this role.
Responsibilities
- Maintaining an in-depth understanding of our target consumers’ needs, of market trends and of how these relate to the Clarks brand.
- Supporting the PLM team in the delivery of shoe ranges which are designed and developed to the agreed timetable and quality standards.
- Following standard processes for the development of the line, by supporting the PLM team in briefing Designers, and managing information.
- Support the development of design briefs that are communicated in a clear and consistent method, so comparisons of output verses brief are possible.
- Progressing meaningful product concepts for consumers, differentiating Clarks from competitors.
- Controlling product development costs and design costs to deliver target margin.
- Supporting the delivery of average price, product cost and margin targets.
- Supporting the development of commercially viable products for sources to develop and manufacture in order to minimize costs and lead times.
- Working collaboratively with other functions on a day-to-day basis in order to achieve the segment objectives.
- Understanding of regions in seasonal sales performance.
- Prepare and deliver compelling product messages / presentations for the season.
Requirements
- Experience as Trainee Product Line Manager preferred.
- Basic knowledge of footwear and shoemaking – constructions, leather, other materials, cost components etc.
- Current footwear market trends.
- Effective retail marketing and selling techniques.
- Fashion and Trends Footwear and footwear constructions.
- Marketplace and competition.
- Footwear product development processes and sourcing.
Nice-to-haves
- Plan a product range with a clear structure and using meaningful criteria.
- Challenge and continuously seek improvement – e.g., in design, in shoe technology.
- Instinctive recognition of good and bad aesthetic appeal of a prototype shoe to its target consumer – particularly last shape and material.
- Tenacity to make sure that new designs are 100% right.
- Write and communicate clear design briefs.
- Able to collaborate and work with people from different countries and culture.
