Product Development Manager

Brisbane/Ipswich based role - mix of office based + wfh
- QLD based, family business, with growing product base
- Ideal for product development specialist in uniform, workwear & apparel industry

We are currently recruiting for a
**Product Development Manager** on a
**full-time permanent basis **for our client based in South East QLD. This role will be
**based in Brisbane/Ipswich** and is the strategic product development lead for this growing company.

**Source SBG (Spencer Brands Group)** is a diversified Australian owned and operated retail and wholesale business, servicing consumer and business markets for over 18 years as a designer, manufacturer, wholesaler, and retailer of specialised branded or non-branded performance workwear, lab and clinical wear, uniforms, teamwear and branded apparel. Source SBG specialises in clinical and front-line services which have specialty requirements in fabrication and specification.

**About the Role**:
Reporting to the General Manager, the
**Product Development Manager **role entails a multifaceted responsibility with management of the full product portfolio to ensure our market needs and business objectives are met. You will set the product direction for the business and see it through to fruition. You will identify opportunities and have oversight of the entire product life cycle, from market research and design to product inception. You will be tasked with developing the new product pipeline, creating new products, and enhancing existing ones. Oversight extends to managing all aspects of the product development process, from initial product design concepts through development to readiness for production.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Developing the product strategy to align with the brand's strategic goals and plans for ambitious yet sustainable growth in existing and new markets.
- Developing and executing the product development plan, managing the pipeline to meet market, seasonal and commercial requirements.
- Researching and identifying market trends and designing and developing new ranges aligned with market trends, brand purpose, price architecture and margin requirements.
- Leading design reviews to enhance core product lines.
- Maintaining relationships and processes with suppliers and manufacturers in addition to sourcing new suppliers as required to deliver on the product development strategy ensuring vendor compliance and certification across the business supplier network.
- Participating in project handover meetings with the sales team to develop ranges in line with client expectations.
- Managing end-to-end sample processes, including quality, processing, fit, and organised storage of samples, swatches, and raw materials.
- Creating and adhering to development production schedules and meeting delivery dates.
- Working collaboratively with internal stakeholders such as the Production Manager and the Marketing team.
- Traveling (as and when required) to research domestic and overseas trends and markets.

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**Relevant Skills & Experience**:

- Tertiary or Diploma qualifications in fashion, design, or a related field (highly regarded).
- Proven experience of at least 2+ years in Product Development in a similar role in uniform apparel and sublimate team wear.
- Proficiency in apparel product development processes with technical expertise in raw materials, garment construction, size specifications, grading, manufacturing processes, product costing and quality control, and ensuring quality and sizing specifications are being met.
- Strong computer literacy skills within a Microsoft Office environment.
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and knowledge of how to use any garment CAD program is highly regarded as is use of CorelDRAW.
- Exposure to using JIRA Project Management tool is advantageous.
- Proficiency in development of comprehensive tech packs.
- End-to-end sample management.
- Experience in sourcing suppliers, supplier management and negotiation.
- Knowledge of sustainability and ethical practices.
- Passionate and enthusiastic about the industry.
- Committed to excellence with a customer-focused approach.
- Demonstrated ability to perform well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Exceptional project management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Flexible, approachable, and reliable.

**Additional Information**:

- This is a **full-time permanent **opportunity based in Brisbane _(note - please inquire about flexible working arrangements or part time if this is something you are looking for in a new role)_.
- Culture and team fit will be an important determinant for the organisation in recruiting for this role.
- You will be required to meet with the General Manager and other team members regularly.
- Must have full work rights in Australia to be considered for this role.
- This role is a mix of