Senior Product Development Manager Wooden Furniture

Mamas & Papas is a truly global brand and it is our passion for the brand which has driven us to become the No.1 nursery, baby wear and maternity retailer. We have a steadfast commitment to both innovative product design and development and delivering the highest standards of quality and innovation.

We are now seeking a Senior Product Development Manager for our Wooden Furniture Category to join the team. Reporting to the Commercial Manager, you will take ownership for management of a Product Development team in the UK & Hong Kong to deliver collections and seasonal ranges on time, on brand and to budget. Responsibilities include:

•Through an awareness of key competitors, price points, products and features and benefits, work in conjunction with the Commercial Manager to develop a product strategy that reflects the design language of the brand and demonstrates innovation in terms of design, quality, safety and value for money

•Through detailed knowledge of the manufacturing process for wooden furniture, work with Suppliers & the Technical team to develop new ranges, resolve technical issues and simplify manufacturing process, cost and lead times

•Drive the product roadmap through critical paths, key milestones, and work in conjunction with Buying & Merchandising to drive category performance through knowledge of stock levels and promotional activities

•Conduct sourcing trips with the Far East, building strong supplier partnerships and gaining a full understanding of capabilities whilst also identifying new opportunities

•Utilise and educate the wider team on global product standards legislation

•Review all cost prices and margins including review of BOM’s, tooling and manufacturing techniques and make proposals/negotiate cost savings

•Continued review of Wooden Furniture category to ensure products meet with Brand and Customer Values

•Key stakeholder: Product Development Director, Head of OEM & ODM, Commercial Manager, Design Manager OEM & ODM, Freelance Furniture Designers, Product Developers, Buying & Merchandising, Technical, Retail

The ideal candidate will bring to the table a strong blend of technical knowledge about solid wood and veneered furniture and strong commercial skills. You will be an established Product Development Manager / Technical Manager within the consumer furniture hard goods retail market or supply base with a proven background in negotiation and margin control. You will demonstrate extensive knowledge of the manufacturing process for flat pack wooden furniture and will be able to confidently communicate, build relationships and develop an innovative product strategy. If you are as ambitious as we are, take your 1st steps and apply today.

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