Job Description

Job Purpose

Fieldsheer Apparel Technologies is a leading designer and manufacturer of technical Battery Heated apparel that incorporates electronic controllers to control heat levels. Mobile Warming® Heated apparel provides ease of use by incorporating Bluetooth control through our MW Connect app that is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play. Fieldsheer Apparel Technologies also develops cooling apparel bringing comfort for customers to do more outdoors. With a strong commitment to innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, we are now seeking an experienced leader to join our team as the Director of Product Development. This Director level position will play a pivotal role in driving the product development and innovation pipeline while ensuring optimal efficiency and productivity throughout the entire product development process.

Duties and Responsibilties

As the Director of Product Development, you will spearhead our product development initiatives. The ideal candidate will be responsible for defining product strategy by working with sales and marketing to ensure innovative products. This position will manage and develop a robust new product development process, managing a diverse product pipeline across all product divisions. The Director of Product Development will lead our talented team of in-house and contract development team members. This role is pivotal in ensuring the delivery of innovative, high-quality products that meet market needs and exceed customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and continue to innovate Product Development Process: Manage all development processes and continually develop new processes as necessary to ensure the process is adaptable, scalable, and efficient in guiding products from conception to launch.
Project Management: Oversee and manage the entire project lifecycle, ensuring milestones are met, budgets are adhered to, and risks are mitigated. Utilize project management tools and methodologies to track progress and make informed decisions.
Manage Product Pipeline: Strategically manage the product pipeline across all product divisions, ensuring alignment with company goals and market demands. Prioritize projects based on potential impact, resource availability, and strategic importance.
Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop the team of in-house and contract development personnel which include Product Management, Project Management, Quality control and document control. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ensure the team has the resources and support needed to succeed.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, including Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Finance, to ensure product development efforts are aligned with overall business strategy and customer needs.
Market Analysis: Stay abreast of market trends, customer feedback, and the competitive landscape for product development strategies, product market fit and adjustments to the product pipeline as necessary.
Quality Assurance: Uphold the highest standards of quality and compliance in all product development activities. Work with Quality Assurance teams at our partner supplier to ensure products meet all regulatory and company standards before launch.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably electrical, business administration, or equivalent experience; Master’s degree preferred.
8+ years of experience in product development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing product development teams. Experience in rechargeable lithium ion batteries and wireless control is a plus.
Proven track record of developing, implementing, and managing successful product development processes.
Strong project management skills, with experience in managing complex projects across multiple divisions.
Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on mentorship, development, and fostering a positive work environment.
Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics.
Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with teams across the organization.
Familiarity with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance practices.

Working Conditions

The Director of Product Development usually works regular business hours but may have to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines. Currently, the company is on a hybrid schedule with 3 days in office and 2 days working remotely. This may change as needed to support the business. Travel may be required to support team members and objectives.

Physical Requirements

Below are the physical demands for this position to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The candidate is required to sit at a desk and use a computer workstation, to stand, walk, use tools and/or controls, lift boxes or products from floor to display or shelf, participate in meetings, and lead meetings while standing. The candidate may occasionally have to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the position include reading text and numbers, reviewing colors against approved colorways, and ability to adjust focus on objects near and far.

Reporting

Reports to the CEO/President

Joining our team as the Director of Product Development presents a remarkable opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of a leading Apparel company that brings technology to apparel. If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for operational excellence, we invite you to apply. Please submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $110,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits: