Overview
Product Development Manager Jobs in Cape Town, South Africa at Dymaxa Recruitment
Our client, a reputable role player in footwear is seeking an experienced, results-driven, Product Development Manager based in Cape Town. This person will be responsible for managing our ranges and product offering to the market and will work closely with various department to do this. Reporting into the sales structure, strong sales/retail background from the apparel industry.
Behavioural Competency
Strong leadership skills – able to motivate and drive team support towards achieving goals and meeting deadlines
Ability to manage time effectively and perform well in high pressure environments
Effective communication and collaborative skills – to work with cross functional teams
Ability to apply logical reasoning and critical thinking for problem solving
Attention to detail and organization skills
Able to balance innovation with practicality
Understanding of footwear construction and sustainable material practices is advantageous
Duties include the following, but not limited to:
Product Development
Conceptualize and create digital illustrations of styles for product development, which is aligned to the company’s brand identity
Work closely with production and supply chain teams to understand the factory’s capabilities and constraints for product development
Conduct Trend research and preparation for critical path meetings
Create Seasonal map sheets
Build tech packs and supplier briefs
Maintain CAD library and seasonal colour pallets
Understand trade patterns and design in line with customer preferences
Provide design input for Quick Response
Range Building
Use market trends to build and maintain local and import ranges across all brands, accessories, and seasons
Arrange and distribute samples for sales agents
Manage on time tooling for all local manufacture ranges
Personnel Management
Manage and oversee the development team, ensuring individual and department KPIs are met, through performance reviews, up to and including coaching, training, poor performance management and progressive corrective action
Ensure the team adheres to policies and procedures, and execute discipline where required up to representing the company at disciplinary hearings and appeals
Constantly drive motivation and innovation within the team
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in industrial design, Product Design, Fashion Design or related field
5+ years proven experience in the apparel industry
A strong portfolio showcasing design skills
Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign or similar, and 3D modelling tools
Basic understanding of CAD software, specific to footwear design
Experienced with sketching and visualization
Excellent understanding of current fashion trends and consumer behaviour
Familiarity with trend forecasting tools
Salary: Market related
Application Process:
Please send your CV to
If you don’t hear from us within 3 weeks of your application, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Title: Product Development Manager
Company: Dymaxa Recruitment
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Category: Design & Architecture (Creative Design / Digital Art, Graphic Designer)
