Product Development Coordinator

Partner with Aquent to join a leading global retail brand renowned for its innovative approach to product development and its commitment to delivering exceptional consumer experiences. This company is at the forefront of its industry, shaping trends and influencing markets worldwide, and is seeking passionate talent to contribute to its continued success.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our client's dynamic Product Development team. In this pivotal role, you will be the linchpin of the sampling process, directly impacting the visual representation and timely delivery of our client's diverse product assortment. Your work will be crucial in supporting critical business decisions and creative initiatives, ensuring that every product comes to life exactly as envisioned. You will be instrumental in bridging creative vision with tangible product, ensuring accuracy and efficiency at every step.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the creation of compelling products that resonate with consumers globally. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional partners, observe business processes, and proactively identify areas for improvement, directly influencing the efficiency and success of product launches. Your expertise will ensure that samples are not just delivered, but are a true and timely reflection of the brand's vision.

**Key Responsibilities:**

* Coordinate the end-to-end sampling process, from the initial ordering of sample yardage to the tracking and receipt of final garment samples.

* Act as the primary point of contact for all sampling-related needs within designated product categories, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.

* Manage the ordering of sample yardage at both material and color levels to support the development of color samples.

* Process vendor and supplier invoices related to sample yardage and sample-making costs.

* Maintain consistent and proactive communication with vendors and suppliers to ensure strict adherence to the brand's production calendar.

* Facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among cross-functional teams, including design, product development, raw materials, creative, marketing, and merchandising, as well as external partners.

* Actively participate in weekly cross-functional meetings to stay informed on product assortment, business priorities, and to represent all sampling-related topics.

* Generate and publish seasonal reports on sample yardage costs and readiness for leaders and the broader business.

* Keep seasonal sample trackers updated and provide comprehensive readiness reports to teams in advance of key milestone meetings.

* Support the development of leadership dashboards by providing key headlines and metrics ahead of critical milestone discussions.

* Proactively observe business processes, anticipate potential needs, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

* Effectively prioritize workload, manage competing deliverables, and navigate various business priorities with agility.

**Must-Have:**

* Bachelor's degree in product development or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

* 1 - 3 years of related professional experience.

* Demonstrated strong, consistent problem-solving abilities and a results-driven communication style with business partners.

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

* Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

* Solid understanding of the product lifecycle, particularly within a retail environment.

* Highly organized with strong collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills.

* Basic knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.

* Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and capable of working effectively both independently and as part of a team.

* Proven ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

**Nice-to-Have:**

* Experience with and/or basic fabric knowledge.

* Familiarity with specific PLM software (e.g., Centric).

* Basic knowledge of garment construction.

**About Aquent Talent:**

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands. Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. More information on our awesome benefits! Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.

#LI-SD1