Product Development & Production Associate - Home & Accessories

About the position

The Product Development and Production Associate is responsible for supporting the end-to-end product development and production process for the Home, Accessories and neckwear category - from seasonal development hand-off through to final delivery. This role works closely with vendors and cross-functional partners including Design, Merchandising, Planning, Logistics, and the Distribution Center. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Support the full product development and production cycle for Home, Accessories and neckwear ensuring execution against seasonal timelines
• Own and maintain all product data in Centric PLM, ensuring accuracy from development through production
• Manage vendor communication across multiple time zones, serving as the day-to-day point of contact to ensure timely delivery of materials, samples, and approvals
• Oversee the seasonal sample process
• Track and manage raw material and fabric development by vendor
• Place and monitor sample orders based on seasonal development needs and calendar deadlines
• Follow up with vendors to ensure timely submission of prototypes, SMS, and TOP samples
• Coordinate inbound sample shipping and ensure samples are received, organized, and distributed for fittings, reviews, and internal presentations
• Ensure samples meet brand standards for quality, construction, and aesthetics; flag issues and track revisions accordingly
• Partner with Design to ensure clear communication of product intent and feedback to vendors
• Assist in cost negotiations by reviewing vendor cost submissions and identifying alternate options to meet margin targets
• Support on-time execution of approvals and change management, escalating production risks as needed
• Review TOP (Top of Production) samples to confirm accuracy in color, material, branding, and execution
• Set up and issue purchase orders in Centric PLM and confirm receipt with vendors
• Assist with sample room organization, seasonal product archive, and related tracking tools
• Maintain clear records of vendor performance, delivery status, and sample accuracy

Requirements

• 2-4 years of experience in product development or production; Home, Accessories, or soft goods experience strongly preferred
• Bachelor's degree in a related field (preferred)
• Strong vendor communication and coordination skills; able to manage multiple partners and deadlines simultaneously
• Proven experience managing seasonal sample workflows from prototype through TOP
• Impeccable attention to detail and accuracy in systems, spreadsheets, and documentation
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and multitask effectively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; PLM experience (Centric preferred)
• Calm under pressure, flexible, and solutions-oriented
• A collaborative team player with a proactive, curious mindset

Benefits

• Generous employee discount
• Competitive salary package
• 401-K
• Commuter benefits
• Paid-family leave
• Health savings and flex spending accounts
• Life & disability insurance
• Onsite gym
• Health & financial wellness programs
• 2 summer Fridays to take off
• Competitive vacation policy & holiday calendar