Job Title: Product Design Specialist
This is a challenging role that requires the successful candidate to work collaboratively and cross-functionally across multiple departments, including Merchandising, Branding, Sourcing, Environmental, Sustainability, Finance, Supply Chain, Retail, Procurement, Legal and Quality.
The new department requires a Product Design Specialist with the knowledge to provide support across all elements of product design life cycle. This includes providing subject matter expertise on design development, construction, material selection and commercials to develop effective and efficient solutions.
Responsibilities:
* Provide subject matter expertise on design development, construction, material selection and commercials to develop effective and efficient solutions.
* Support detailed development of enterprise wide product design targets and develop technical solutions in order to meet product design targets.
* Actively seek out product innovation through NGO, supplier partnerships, primary market research and push ways for using product design as a differentiator from competition.
* Advise on trade-offs and develop options that strike the right balance of sustainability, durability and cost in targeted areas such as polybags, pack design and hangers.
* Support development of new product solutions in apparel and lifestyle departments, working closely with Merchandising, Brand and Product Suppliers.
* Drive consistency in design and standards across the product range where appropriate.
* Work closely with Buyer to develop solutions and sourcing strategies that use the brand scale to maximise economies of scale.
* Help trial new design standards and work with buying and merchandising to approve all new product designs or material changes.
* Drive continuous improvement of product solutions, provide technical and troubleshooting support on product issues.
* Support creation of escalation and product issue reporting process from SC to store and post-consumer.
* Explore opportunities to improve consistency of product design across the business in order to simplify management and improve efficiency and cost.
* Identify ways to improve recyclability of product packaging through return to store schemes and effective material selection.
* Partner with other departmental members to develop end-to-end product design solutions that meet product needs and are on brand.
* Provide support and guidance on product regulations and requirements in new and existing markets and work closely with Sustainability, Environmental and Sustainability Team (ESET), Legal and Quality to ensure compliance.
* Work closely with Buying and Merchandising to consider product requirements in New Product Development.
* Advise on sustainability of solutions and certification/GRS requirements to meet specifications and standards.
* Provide input into the product standards manual which will cover brand look and feel, as well as technical standards.
* Support development of systems and reporting to track and monitor progress of the product strategy.
Requirements:
* Multi-year experience working in a similar product design specialist role in a large multinational business, retail experience preferred.
* Deep expertise in product design and development.
* Expert knowledge of product suppliers and their capabilities.
* Experience of working within different operating models (direct source vs. nomination) and an understanding on when to use one vs the other.
* Experience of working with product suppliers internationally and supporting nomination/forecasting.
* Proven ability in previous roles to drive change in complex, matrix organisations in the product space.
* Knowledge of product regulations and compliance requirements, strong awareness of ethical sourcing and corporate social responsibility issues.
* Demonstrated ability to forge close business relationships with internal and external stakeholders at senior management levels.
* Proven track record of developing strategic partnerships with key suppliers.
Benefits:
* Award-winning company culture and values-driven team.
* Career development and growth opportunities in a dynamic and fast-paced industry.
* Collaborative and innovative work environment with passionate professionals.
* Competitive salary and benefits package, including generous bonus structure.
* Flexible working hours and remote work options.
* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
* Recognition and reward programs for outstanding performance and contributions.
About Us:
We are a leading global retailer, dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences and driving business success through innovation and collaboration. Our mission is to create value for our customers, employees, and shareholders by harnessing the power of our people, products, and technology. Join us and be part of a vibrant community of professionals who share your passion for excellence and your commitment to making a difference.