Director, Product Development and Production, Accessories

Overview

The Director of Product Development & Production for Accessories will lead all facets of product development and manufacturing operations for the accessories line, focusing primarily on handbags and small leather goods (SLG). This position reports directly to the Chief Officer, Product Development and Production Sourcing and is central to driving the strategic planning and delivery of products that fulfill aesthetic standards, design criteria, company IMUs, and product workflow.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and manage detailed development and production schedules aligned with business demands.
• Collaborate closely with senior leaders across development and design to ensure products meet quality benchmarks and global market testing requirements.
• Lead growth and development of the Accessories PD & Production team, working with design and merchandising to curate seasonal collections that balance look, cost, functionality, and manufacturing standards.
• Enhance processes and streamline supply chain operations from start to finish by improving internal systems and cross-team efficiency.
• Coordinate communication channels between internal departments (design, development, merchandising) and external suppliers including manufacturers, raw material, hardware, and component vendors.
• Participate in prototype reviews, SMS, BOM, and pre-production meetings to drive decisions and departmental progress.
• Direct initiatives with materials and design teams aimed at boosting department profitability.
• Manage and ensure compliance with financial budgets annually.
• Analyze factory cost structures and lead negotiations to meet target profit margins.
• Travel internationally to production sites to expedite prototypes and oversee production timelines.
• Build and sustain vendor relationships to ensure sample and bulk delivery, cost efficiency, quality, and resolve conflicts.
• Implement quality assurance protocols and address product returns. Lead season-end reviews with internal and external teams.
• Identify gaps in sourcing strategies and recommend new suppliers to fulfill product and business requirements.
• Pursue opportunities to lower operational expenses, shorten lead times, and improve workflows.
• Align practices with Ready-To-Wear (RTW) leads for unified business objectives.

Candidate Profile & Requirements

• Minimum 9 years of international accessories product development experience, notably with handbags and small leather goods.
• Proven track record working with manufacturers in Asian and European markets.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• In-depth knowledge of sourcing and production processes.
• Strong aesthetic judgment and comprehensive understanding of luxury leather goods and hardware construction.
• Expertise in handbag and SLG construction, costing, functionality, scheduling, and materials application.
• Well-versed in accessory development and manufacturing to anticipate challenges and deploy effective solutions.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to drive timely delivery, cost targets, and maintain quality standards.
• Advanced problem-solving, negotiation, planning, and organization skills.
• Experience leading and managing teams effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with strong interpersonal and multitasking capabilities.
• Capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Outlook; RLM software experience is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

The position offers a salary range from $165,000 to $175,000 annually, dependent on experience, knowledge, and skills.

• Clothing allowance and merchandise discounts
• Comprehensive healthcare including medical, dental, and vision
• Flexible spending accounts and commuter benefits
• 401(k) savings with employer matching contributions
• Summer Fridays for work-life balance

Other Information

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V). This role is based onsite in New York, NY, and involves international travel as needed.