Engineer, Apparel

Product Development Manager

Partner with the brand developer, sourcing developer, and the vendor on product industrialization through the mediums of both physical and virtual sampling at all development stages, including innovation and concept. Work collaboratively to ensure that any product developed is engineered to meet brand standards on safety, fit, functional integrity, performance, quality, and cost, while incorporating risk management principles to prioritize tasks. Support projects relating to the same. Bridge the gap between development and production by managing the handover process and ensuring product is production ready, that technical specifications are accurate and complete, that pre-production risks are resolved and critical points of attention communicated. On behalf of our brands, independently manage all pre-production and re-allocation sample approvals locally. Prepare for and actively participate in Brand Development, Collab, CKO, and Innovation Trips to the region. Be a strategic partner to our brands and excellent business partner to cross functional team and vendors. Support on identification and implementation of standardized processes across brands and regions (VF Way). Manage vendor performance and drive continuous improvement through training, sample room assessment, and TVCP/CFT calibration protocols. Support the Sourcing Strategy by onboarding new vendors or building capability of existing vendors within the given timelines and scope. Continue to evolve self and skills to adapt to changing needs of the business.

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Provide technical expertise, solves, and support to cross functional team, vendor, and brands. Manage issues proactively with stakeholders. Support product innovation trials and complex collabs. Partner with brands on construction, sizing, grading, and block projects of varying scales and complexities. Validate pattern overlays and samples before brand submission. Approve patterns ahead of sample making as required. Review virtual and physical samples (Proto, SMS, POC, PPS, Counter, Size Set), provide comments and update forms/systems. Partner with brands on construction toolboxes, updates on construction manuals and SOPs. Manage and track Tech Pack Discrepancies, drive process improvement with brands. Update minor and intermediate TP discrepancies on system on behalf of brands as required. Preparation, onsite support, and follow up for all brand trips (Development, CKO, innovation, Collabs, Fit training). Allocate risk to all orders. Hyper focus on high-risk styles in accordance with the RBM guidance. Participate in Tech Pack handover meetings between brand and vendor. Manage rain room testing and follow up for Futurelight, Goretex, GB testing, and other testing as required. Manage the handover from development to production (Risk Analysis handoff meeting). Independently manage Pre-production sample approval locally. Support the re-allocation process and independently manage all sample approvals locally. Onboard new vendors. Onboard new brands to existing vendors. Support capability growth of existing vendors. Drive continuous improvement and standardization of processes through ongoing vendor, brand, and cross region training. Support the TVCP program by providing input to module creation, training, and CFT correlation. Support the RBM program globally including training and ongoing calibration. Attend Pre-Production and RAM Meetings as required. Travel frequently to factories. Continuous learning (Knowledge transfer / Calibration for all brands). Partake in projects.

What we will be looking for in you: Competency: Growth Mindset. Process oriented. Ability to build collaborative relationships among a complex set of stakeholders, internally and externally. Good stakeholder management. Actively listens to others and exchanges ideas. Articulate with excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to act as a technical resource and mentor to others. Solution oriented. Strong sense of urgency and ability to adhere to calendar deadlines. Motivated to create and manage a meaningful IDP. Curious and courageous to seek/give regular feedback. High learning agility. Skills: Strong working knowledge of product development through production. Proficient pattern making (including hands on experience in flat pattern and draping), apparel sizing, and pattern grading. Working knowledge of computerized pattern system (e.g., Gerber), PLM (e.g., Flex), 3D (e.g., Browzwear), Adobe Illustrator. Proficient in live model and Body form fitting. Knowledge of garment construction standards and engineering, raw material properties, wet processing (garment washing/dyeing), garment testing, and manufacturing methods. Ability to interpret design intent and offer up alternative solutions. Other: Individual Contributor – Ability to work independently and proactively. Language: English, local language. Experience: At least 5 years relevant working experience in similar role.