Director of Product Development

Company Overview Clare V. is a line of accessible‑luxury pieces based in Los Angeles, California. Founded by Clare Vivier, the brand is committed to conscious practices, local production, and partnerships that make a positive difference. With a headquarters in Silverlake, Clare V. creates bold, enduring, and accessible designs that blend style with everyday practicality. Job Description Manage the Product Development team through the entire development process from research & development to production handoff, ensuring design aesthetic, quality, and timeline goals are met. Lead cross‑functional collaboration among design, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Specific Duties & Responsibilities Sourcing Work closely with the Design Director, internal R&D, and import factories to provide material, supplier, and technique options for seasonal offerings. Source alternate manufacturers and material suppliers, building a tight factory partner base. Direct seasonal style allocation to factories, ensuring balanced workloads. Manage factory relationships in line with the strategic sourcing plan. Collaborate with the brand sourcing lead to onboard new full‑package suppliers, vetting factories through sampling, tech packs, and cost target discussions. Review prototypes and market samples to ensure faithful execution to specification. Purchase, schedule, monitor, and inventory all required sample materials. Coordinate prototyping processes, including scheduling, monitoring, and reporting, flexing both factory and internal schedules to meet milestones. Oversee style and material minimums, costs, and lead times, communicating to Production and Planning for production flow planning. Support R&D in cost negotiations for all components and assist the Costing Manager in finished‑goods costing to meet margin plans and retail structures. Work closely with the Cost Manager to finalize all costing after market samples are complete. Product Integrity Govern component reviews with a focus on quality, durability, and compliance. Ensure all components and constructions meet performance and restricted substance standards, overseeing testing for any questionable materials. Calendar Management Manage and adjust the annual and in‑season calendar to secure development deadlines. Prioritize and resolve unexpected delays with cross‑functional teams and senior management. Additional Responsibilities Control monthly development expenses and process weekly invoices to accounting. Communicate seasonal budget targets to the product development team and track related expenses. Maintain team and cross‑functional relationships to meet quality and cost requirements. Provide weekly status reports to the Department Head; deliver development hindsight at season end. Travel internationally 2–3 times per year as needed. Coach and build the team, setting clear goals and fostering a collaborative environment. Support additional projects as directed by the Department Head. Requirements BA/BS degree or equivalent life experience. Minimum 8–10 years in leather fashion accessories product development, sourcing, or production, with at least 4 years managing a team of 4+ direct reports. Experience with both domestic and import factories. Strong organizational, interpersonal, negotiation, mathematical, and collaborative skills. PLM experience required; WFX experience a plus. Proficiency in Excel and Google Suite. Ability to multitask, manage competing priorities, and work with accuracy and urgency. Proficiency in reading tech packs and bills of material. Expert understanding of patternmaking and construction of handbags preferred. Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs. Compensation & Perks Annual salary range of $150,000 – $185,000, with annual cost‑of‑living increases, end‑of‑year bonus opportunities, and generous employee discounts. Bi‑annual product credits keep you connected to the brand. Studio Life & Culture The position is based out of the Frogtown Studio Offices in an energetic Los Angeles neighborhood. Perks include a fully stocked kitchen, monthly catered lunches, quarterly team‑building events, and meaningful volunteer outings across the Los Angeles community. Comprehensive Benefits Package Medical, dental, and vision insurance. Flex Spending Accounts and Transportation Management Accounts. Life and long‑term disability insurance. Paid vacation, personal days, and sick time. Guardian ancillary plans. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 401(k) with company match. Clare V. welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful workplace where everyone can thrive. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need support during the application process, please contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io. Notice to California applicants: Privacy Notice #J-18808-Ljbffr