Product Design Manager

The Product Design Manager at KeaBabies is responsible for leading the product design team to create innovative and customer-centric baby and maternity lifestyle products. The role involves overseeing the entire product development process, from ideation to launch. The Product Design Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams, exercise design thinking, and ensure brand consistency. They will work closely with the product sourcing and procurement team to strategize print design and variations based on market trends and user needs while adhering to budget and timeline requirements, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards for all baby and maternity products.

**Main Job Roles**:
1. **Product Design Leadership**:

- Lead and inspire the design team to deliver innovative and high-quality product designs aligned with the brand's vision and target market.
- Utilize design thinking methodologies to understand user needs and develop customer-focused solutions.
- Foster a collaborative and creative environment that encourages the team's growth and success.

2. **Strategic Product Development**:

- Develop a clear and data-driven product development strategy that aligns with market trends and business objectives.
- Strategize print design and variations based on themes, occasions, and emerging market trends.
- Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards for all baby and maternity products, meeting all applicable industry regulations and guidelines.

3. **Collaboration with Product Sourcing and Procurement**:

- Work closely with the product sourcing and procurement team to identify suitable materials and suppliers for product designs.
- Collaborate on sourcing decisions to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality without compromising design integrity.
- Maintain a strong relationship with suppliers to facilitate efficient production processes and timely delivery of products.

4. **Brand Consistency and Communication**:

- Uphold brand consistency in product design to maintain the brand's identity and message.
- Effectively communicate design concepts to cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
- Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to support product launches and marketing initiatives.

5. **Budget and Timeline Management**:

- Efficiently manage project budgets and timelines to ensure cost-effective and timely product development.
- Conduct regular reviews to monitor the progress of projects and make adjustments as necessary.
- Drive continuous improvement in design processes and workflows to optimize efficiency.

**Requirements**:

- A Bachelor's degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, or a related field.
- Experience: Proven experience in product design and development, preferably in the baby and maternity lifestyle industry. Previous experience in a managerial or leadership role, leading design teams and projects.
- Design Expertise: Strong design expertise with a portfolio showcasing innovative and customer-centric product designs.
- Software Skills: Proficiency in design software tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and 3D modeling software.
- Design Thinking: Demonstrated knowledge of design thinking methodologies and human-centered design principles.
- Leadership Skills: Leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a design team.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to align design strategies with business objectives and market trends.
- Communication: Excellent communication and presentation skills to effectively articulate design concepts and ideas to stakeholders.
- User-Centric Approach: A user-centric approach to design, with a passion for understanding customer needs and preferences.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Knowledge of safety and regulatory standards for baby and maternity products.
- Budget and Timeline Management: Budgeting and timeline management skills to ensure efficient and cost-effective product development.
- Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
- Brand Passion: Passion for the brand's mission and values, and a genuine interest in baby and maternity products.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic team and shape the product portfolio of a prominent baby and maternity lifestyle brand. The successful Product Design Manager will contribute to KeaBabies' growth and success by delivering exceptional and innovative products that resonate with customers while collaborating closely with the product sourcing and procurement team to ensure seamless production and quality standards.