Product Development Manager (5WR37RY5)

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced, commercially driven, and technically strong Product Development Manager to lead product development, business development, market research, customer acquisition, sample coordination, and cross functional execution within the apparel industry.

The selected candidate will be responsible for leading the product development team, identifying new market opportunities, developing customer focused product solutions, coordinating with design, sales, marketing, planning, and production teams, and ensuring timely delivery of product development projects. This role requires strong garment industry knowledge, leadership capability, business development experience, and the ability to drive innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Product Development Leadership

• Lead and oversee the product development team by providing guidance, support, and mentorship.
• Ensure effective execution of operational tasks related to product development.
• Monitor product development progress and ensure timelines, 
• quality standards, and customer expectations are met.
• Conduct regular reviews and follow ups on development work to address delays, deviations, or technical concerns.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and professional development within the team.

Business Development and Market Expansion

• Develop and implement strategic plans to drive new business development.
• Identify customer acquisition opportunities and support expansion into new markets.
• Build and maintain a pipeline of new business opportunities.
• Identify and prioritize key accounts and potential customers based on strategic fit and growth potential.
• Allocate resources effectively to support business development goals and customer growth.

Market Research and Strategic Planning

• Conduct market research to identify emerging trends, consumer preferences, and market opportunities in the garment industry.
• Monitor competitor activities and market trends to identify threats and opportunities.
• Use market insights to support strategic decision making and product portfolio development.
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on 
• business development activities, market trends, and progress against targets.

Customer Engagement and Proposal Development

• Develop customized proposals, presentations, and pitches for potential customers.
• Highlight product capabilities, unique value propositions, and competitive advantages.
• Build long term customer relationships and maximize customer lifetime value.
• Negotiate pricing agreements and contracts to achieve profitability and business objectives.
• Ensure customer requirements are clearly understood and communicated to internal teams.

Innovation, Compliance and Process Improvement

• Drive a culture of innovation, excellence, and customer centricity across product development activities.
• Analyze customer feedback and market insights to identify product improvement opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and ethical practices.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize production processes and enhance operational efficiency.
• Support cost saving initiatives and continuous improvement across product development and production related workflows.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Clothing Manufacturing, Business 
• Administration, or a related field.
• Master's degree will be an added advantage.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in product development, apparel manufacturing, garment technology, or a similar role.
• Experience with SAP or ERP systems will be preferred
• Strong understanding of garment industry trends, consumer preferences, product development, and garment technology.
• Strong business development mindset with the ability to identify and convert market opportunities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with sales, marketing, design, planning, and production teams.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in market research and data analysis.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide, mentor, and develop teams.
• Strong planning, follow up, and project coordination skills.
• Ability to manage customer expectations, timelines, sample 
• approvals, and development priorities.
• Detail oriented, proactive, and able to work in a fast paced apparel manufacturing environment.