Product Design Manager

Product Design Manager

At PEARL iZUMi, we all play an integral role in our mission to “Unlock the Power of Inspiration and Impact” in a supportive, fast-paced and productive work environment. This is why we exist, and all team members contribute in tangible and sometimes profound ways. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. The more diverse we are, the better our work will be. If you see value in “unlocking” this potential, then PEARL iZUMi could be the place for you. We are looking for passionate like-minded people who are fueled by an innate desire to work in an environment focused on team success. Whether your role is to create, to sell, or to support, careers at PEARL iZUMi give you an opportunity to make a difference.

We are also laser-focused on finding the right people who share our core values – Trust, Craft, Empathy, Impact, and Plus 1. To be clear, we evaluate all candidates on their demonstrated commitment to these values.

The Product Design Manager (PDM) is responsible for daily design team operational excellence as it relates to calendar, process, and product & graphic design. This position requires thoughtful design, critical planning, cross-functional partnership, effective communication and flawless execution. The PDM will establish and maintain processes to manage scope over the seasonal design cycle, setting project quality and performance standards, and assessing and managing risk within and across multiple projects. This individual is fluent in design language and is well-versed in the software and tools related to the job. The PDM excels at the craft of design and will continually develop strategic capabilities by collaborating with the Director of Design and product leaders. The PDM must be comfortable working on multiple projects with varying timelines. The PDM will have informed opinions about design and enjoys working with diverse teams and cross-functional partners. In addition to growing individual design and project management strengths, this individual will be proactive in helping build team culture.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

• Responsible for Product Design Calendar timelines and accountabilities for design deliverables.
• Continuously improve processes, workflow, templates, and requirements for each stage of product creation: research and planning, design, and prototyping.
• Monitor and assign design resources appropriately to streamline project efficiency and maximize deliverable outputs.
• Creation and upkeep of design toolbox assets related to all areas of design.
• Support team members in prioritizing workload.
• Work with Director of Design on budget related items.
• Lead, coach, develop, and manage direct reports. Set standards for expectations and execution. Oversee individual development plans and accountability process.
• Maintain departmental relationships within PEARL iZUMi to ensure that all information required from Design is provided in a timely manner.

Design:

• Working manager with expected design responsibilities.
• Support in direction for Design Team members with regard to design ensuring all new designs aesthetically follow seasonal direction set by Director of Design.
• Actively research design industry related journals, seminars, and trade shows to be informed of emerging trends, concepts, ideation, technologies, materials and construction methods, etc.
• Receive seasonal design briefs from PLMs and help to clarify outstanding questions from design team.
• Be an internal advocate for Design thinking within the organization.
• Assist as a resource for all category specific design development related information including prototype development status, features, fabric, graphics, trim and color details.

Job Qualifications:

• 7+ years’ experience in apparel and/or graphic design preferably in the cycling/outdoor apparel industry.
• 3+ years of effective people management experience.
• 1+ years of experience in project management.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Apparel Design and Production or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Technological Proficiencies:
• Illustrator
• In-Design
• Photoshop
• Microsoft Office
• Ability to manage in and out of house projects, designers, and production artists.
• Engineering experience spanning performance garments made fit to a body in motion to structured lifestyle silhouettes preferred.
• Experience working with multiple high-end materials.
• Possess broad knowledge of apparel product development.
• Possess broad knowledge of graphic techniques and production layout.
• Experience with 3D apparel / graphic design a plus.
• Knowledge to create product tech packs and streamline communication to development and factory partners.
• Manages own priorities and workload to complete the required tasks.
• Honest, dependable team player with strong communication skills and the ability to work under extremely tight deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail, repetitive work; along with ability to follow specific instruction.
• Ability to work well within cross functional teams.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications.
• Travel required 10-15%.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualification associated with the job. The successful candidate will be expected to perform all functions from administrative processing to leading change initiatives.