Product Development Manager

Product Development ManagerThe Product Development Manageris responsible for maintaining the strategic vision, process, and execution for the entire product lifecycle at Chums including communication and management both internally and externally. This role leads the product development team, ensuring Chums consistently delivers innovative, high-quality, and profitable products that align with the company's mission and growth goals. This role is responsible for overseeing the entire product lifecycle, from ideation and design to development, launch, and post-launch optimization. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product management, cross-functional leadership, and a deep understanding of market trends and customer needs. You will be responsible for translating executive product vision into actionable strategies and initiatives, setting the roadmap, and ensuring timely and high-quality execution. You will also play a key role in identifying new market opportunities and driving innovation within the organization. This position requires a combination of strategic thinking, technical knowledge, management of people and process and excellent communication skills. You should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities while working closely with Sales and Marketing. Key ResponsibilitiesProject ManagementImplement and communicate the product vision and strategy from the executive teamOversee the product lifecycle from conception to launchSet and manage product roadmaps and timelinesMonitor product performance and implement improvementsManage and mitigate risks and stumbling blocks in the product development processIdentify competition in each of our product categories and stay relevant. Strategic ManagementIdentify market trends, emerging technologies, and growth opportunities that inform product direction.Champion innovation while balancing cost, speed to market, and operational feasibility.Work with executives to provide input on the overall business plan and interrelated strategies across all product categories. Leverage data from the Director of Business Strategy and other insights to identify growth opportunities within industry and consumer markets. Drive product innovation by leveraging internal teams, external partnerships and emerging opportunities. Cross-Departmental CollaborationPlan and execute the GTM launch presentations and other key product planning meetings. Partner with and lead the communication with Sales, Marketing, Purchasing, and Operations, to align product plans with business objectives.Serve as leader in gaining key decisions from executives for product portfolio prioritization.Maintain excellent relationships with vendors through frequent professional communication and travel. Manage cross company communication regarding timelines, due dates, costing, and delivery status.Manage relationships with external contractors and vendors to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables. Operational ExcellenceOversee all phases of product development "” concept, prototyping, testing (working with marketing), costing, and commercialization. Implement and refine processes to improve efficiency, communication, and quality across the product lifecycle.Create detailed product tech packs, build prototypes, and test product concepts.Source and develop new fabrics and trims integrating sustainable materials where possible.Financial & Business ImpactManage you product development budget. Update and maintain Bill of Materials to allow for pricing accuracy, and understand cost targets for wholesale, MSRP, and margin goals.Develop pricing models and forecast product profitability.Brand StewardshipUnderstand brand guidelines and be a steward of brand guidelines on our product. Ensure every product reinforces Chums' brand values of simplicity, functionality, and durability.Receive feedback from customers and business partners to enhance the quality and function of products and features.Direct compliance efforts to meet regulatory obligations and customer expectations. QualificationsBachelor's degree in Product Development, Business, Engineering, Industrial Design, or related field (Master's degree a plus).5+ years of progressive product development experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.Proven success in the GTM process developing and launching innovative consumer products "” outdoor, lifestyle, or sporting goods experience preferred.Deep understanding of manufacturing, sourcing, costing, and go-to-market strategy.Exceptional leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.Skilled in project management tools, and data-driven analysis.Fluent in Adobe Suite Personal AttributesStrategic thinker with a passion for the outdoors and Chums' mission.Collaborative leader who can inspire and align cross-functional teams.Entrepreneurial mindset "” proactive, creative, and results-driven.Comfortable balancing big-picture vision with hands-on execution.Why Work at ChumsOpportunity to shape the future of an iconic outdoor brand.Competitive salary and benefits package.Employee discounts on Chums gear.Collaborative, adventurous company culture that values innovation, work-life balance, and having fun.

Created: 2025-10-05