Director of Product Design - Furniture

HQ Office located in Richmond, CAWho We ArePALECEK values integrity, loyalty, and strong partnerships as a family-owned company. We are driven to improve, innovate, and inspire. We bring our personal best to every aspect of our business, from our design and craft to our internal teamwork and customer service. We are passionate about creativity and believe that beautiful spaces enhance the quality of life.SummaryThe Director of Product Design will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing Palecek's design vision, working closely with the Executive VP of Product & Supply Chain and Chief Creative Officer (CCO) and the Product Development (PD) team to drive innovative and aesthetically compelling furniture collections.In addition to leading the design process, the Director of Product Design will be a key decision-maker in material selection, supplier partnerships, and production processes, ensuring high-quality standards and cost-effective solutions that support the company's growth objectives. Reporting directly to the Chief Creative Officer, this role requires a deep understanding of market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive positioning.Description: Develop and present a comprehensive long-term design and sourcing strategy to the Chief Creative Officer (CCO) for approval, focusing on expanding the Palecek assortment through proprietary designs tailored for direct sales in trade and hospitality business channelsCurate product assortments that align with the brand's customer demographic and regional preferences.Continuously analyze sales performance, market trends, and consumer insights to refine the product offering, maximizing revenue and profitabilityClearly communicate the design vision and inspire the team to develop and execute a cohesive product strategy that aligns with business goalsImplement and oversee the approved strategy, ensuring objectives are met within the designated budget while driving positive business resultsReview, critique, and guide the creation of 3D and 2D CAD renderings to guarantee design accuracy, quality, and brand aestheticsEstablish and adhere to the product development (PD) calendar, coordinating with cross-functional teams to align product launch schedules and ensure timely executionMaintain strong verbal and written communication with manufacturers to streamline the sampling process, enhance design aesthetics, and uphold quality standardsParticipate in company-sponsored travel to trade shows and international factories to foster relationships, oversee design integrity, and stay ahead of emerging product trendsEvaluate and approve product mixes to ensure collections maintain a cohesive brand identity and meet high-quality standards. Identify opportunities to incorporate current design trends while preserving core product offerings and best sellersIdentify and explore new business opportunities in emerging product categories and alternative sourcing channels to drive innovation and growthCollaborate closely with sales, merchandising and marketing teams to effectively communicate the product strategy, ensuring alignment with upcoming product themes and overall brand messagingPerform other duties as assignedKey QualificationsBachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Furniture Design, Interior Design, or a related field is required; a Master's degree is preferredA minimum of 15-20 years of experience in high-end furniture design, development, and production, with a strong background in luxury and custom furnishingsExtensive knowledge of sourcing, supply chain logistics, product introduction, and the full design lifecycle, from concept to market launchDeep understanding of materials, furniture construction techniques, and finishing processes to ensure high-quality craftsmanshipDemonstrated success in leading product design and supply chain development, with the ability to make strategic, data-driven decisionsAbility to work autonomously while keeping senior leadership informed on project progress, performance, and key business initiativesStrong sense of urgency in executing business goals, taking calculated risks, and translating sales data into actionable design and sourcing strategies that enhance profitability and brand positioningExcellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, overseas vendors, external partners, and key stakeholders at all levelsSkilled in navigating complex disagreements and facilitating resolution, ensuring trust, alignment, and a shared company vision among internal and external teamsDesire to seek feedback and commit to continuous improvement to product lines based on team insights, customer feedback, product performance and market changesWillingness to travel internationally for product development trips and domestically for trade shows, vendor meetings, and industry eventsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), Adobe Creative Suite, and AutoCADPhysical RequirementsAbility to sit, stand, and move for extended periods, including walking through office, and warehouse spacesFrequent use of hands and fingers for computer work, sketching, and handling material samplesOccasional lifting and carrying of materials, samples, and product prototypes (up to 25 lbs.)Ability to travel domestically and internationally for supplier visits, trade shows, and design development meetingsVisual acuity to assess product details, colors, and finishes accuratelyAbility to adapt to various work environments, including office settings, and warehousesOccasional bending, kneeling, or reaching to inspect products or review samplesPay & BenefitsPay range: $190,000 - $220,000 per yearCompetitive Paid Time OffA flexible health plan offering medical, dental, and vision benefits.Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending AccountsHealth Savings Account401(k) Savings PlanProfit Sharing BenefitsGenerous Employee Discount

Created: 2025-05-24