Manager - Package Gift Development at Medford

Job Description

Open Date:7/12/2013 Shift: -not applicable-

POSITION SUMMARY

Researches, develops, and implements new packaged gift products to effectively compete in the market. Manages projects from the concept phase through the development lifecycle to successful production launch. Provides analytical and tactical support in development of product plans. Conducts research in preparation for new product development, including structural innovations, containers, and material trends used in the food and luxury gift market. Contributes technical expertise to product design and development. Evaluates internal and external market trends and makes recommendations for existing product enhancements and new product development. Assists in requirements analysis and the definition of functional specifications for the development group. Collaborates with category managers, design, development, and testing groups, and marketing, manufacturing, legal and other departments to bring products to the market. Produces workflows and prototypes. Provides accurate time estimates on projects and identifies risks with each alternative. Supports the quality control department form a technical perspective. Assists in trouble-shooting. May provide product training to internal or external customers. May assist in the authoring of specifications and product information sheets. May require overseas or domestic travel for product research and development

Job Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILIITIES

Major responsibilities of the position are listed below. To perform the job successfully, the individual must be able to execute each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties, assignments and specific projects may be assigned at the discretion of executive management

-Defines product strategy and roadmap and determines priorities and future direction.
-Gathers and analyzes product category and lifestyle trend data to guide the development of product lines.
-Develops new product to achieve targets (I.e. Initial mark-up percentage and price points).
-Keeps abreast of industry developments, becomes an expert in gifting category and projects future trends.
-Regularly communicates and updates Channel Merchants, Category Managers, the Demand Planning and Forecasting team and other internal partners on the status of assortment plan objectives.
-Identify new and cost effective product opportunities based on customer feedback and industry trends.
-Maintain current knowledge and understanding of regulations, industry trends, current practices, and new developments in purchasing, and supply chain.
-Update job knowledge by participating in conferences and educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
-Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

-A Bachelors degree from a four-year college or university, preferably in Business, Marketing, Design or Purchasing, or equivalent experience required.
-2-4 years experience in purchasing, product development and or product design.
-Package Design or Package Engineering experience helpful, but not required.
-The ability to handle multiple tasks, adapt to changing priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
-Brand development and management experience required.
-Experience designing full product assortments required.
-Food products, gifting and or luxury industry experience extremely helpful.
-The ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
-Well versed in Microsoft Office products, specifically Power Point and Excel.
-Strong presentation skills required. Must be comfortable speaking to large groups of people and with all levels of management.

Country: USA, State: Oregon, City: Medford, Company: Harry & David.