Director of Merchandising and Apparel Product Development

Job Title: Director of Merchandising and Apparel Product Development

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Position Overview:

The Director of Merchandising and Apparel Product Development is responsible for driving the overall merchandising strategy, product innovation, and development for the company. This role oversees the creation, planning, and execution of product lines that align with the company's business goals, brand identity, and customer demands. The ideal candidate will possess a keen understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and product lifecycle management while leading cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, profitable, and high-quality products.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Merchandising Strategy and Planning
   • Develop and implement merchandising strategies that drive growth, increase market share, and enhance profitability.
   • Lead the planning and assortment of customer projects in collaboration with sales and sourcing teams.
   • Analyze sales data, consumer trends, and market competition to optimize product assortment and pricing.
   • Collaborate with leadership to set short- and long-term business objectives that align with the customers’ overall brand visions.
2. Product Development and Innovation
   • Oversee the end-to-end product development process, from concept to delivery, ensuring products meet quality, cost, and timeline goals.
   • Research and identify new materials, technologies, and product innovations that will position the company ahead of competitors.
   • Work closely with sales, graphics and sourcing teams to ensure alignment on product specifications, aesthetics, and feasibility.
   • Monitor and approve prototypes, samples, and finished goods for product quality and consistency.
3. Cross-functional Collaboration
   • Partner with sales teams to ensure that product collections meet customers private label development needs and meet customer expectations.
   • Liaise with factories and sourcing teams to ensure product availability, quality control, and efficient cost management.
   • Work closely with international and domestic vendors, managing relationships and negotiations to achieve cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.
4. Leadership and Team Development
   • Manage and mentor a team of merchandising and product development professionals, ensuring a high level of performance and creativity.
   • Provide leadership, vision, and strategic direction for the team, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
   • Set performance goals, provide ongoing feedback, and conduct performance reviews.
5. Financial Management
   • Ensure the alignment of product development costs with overall company budgets and financial objectives.
6. Market Research and Trend Analysis
   • Stay informed on industry trends, competitive products, and customer preferences to ensure the product assortment is relevant and competitive.
   • Attend trade shows, conduct market visits, and engage with customer feedback to gain insights for future product development.
   • Proactively adapt merchandising and product strategies based on market changes and emerging opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising, Product Development, Business, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 8+ years of experience in merchandising and apparel product development, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of developing successful product lines and merchandising strategies.
• Strong understanding of the product development lifecycle, including design, sourcing, production, and marketing.
• Ability to think strategically, innovate, and adapt to fast-changing market conditions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, forecasting, and P&Ls.
• Familiarity with global supply chains and experience managing vendor relationships.

Core Competencies:

• Strategic Vision: Ability to translate market trends and consumer insights into a compelling merchandising and product development strategy.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams to achieve business goals.
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyze data and market insights to make informed business decisions.
• Creativity: Innovative thinker with the ability to conceptualize and execute product ideas that differentiate the brand.
• Negotiation: Skilled at vendor management and cost negotiation to optimize profitability without sacrificing quality.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Application Question:

• What is your salary requirement?

Ability to Relocate:

• Las Vegas, NV 89118: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person