Director of Product Development & Global Sourcing (AI-Driven Innovation)

Director of Product Development \& Global Sourcing (AI-Driven Innovation)

Position Type: Full Time / Onsite

Salary Range: 130 – 160 K

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

We are seeking a highly driven, positive, and solutions-oriented professional to lead product development and global sourcing initiatives within our Home division. This role works closely with design to conceptualize, develop, and bring innovative, cost-effective product lines to market for major retail partners including off-price and mass channels. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, maintains a drama-free and team-first mindset, and brings strong energy and collaboration to the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

· Lead end-to-end product development from concept through production across multiple home product categories.

· Identify market trends, consumer insights, and whitespace opportunities to create innovative, commercially successful products for major retailers including TJX, Walmart, and other key accounts.

· Generate and develop new product concepts using AI-powered design tools, sketching platforms, and visualization software to accelerate ideation, improve speed-to-market, and drive breakthrough innovation.

· Create compelling concept presentations, product pitches, and trend-driven line reviews utilizing modern AI tools and workflows.

· Collaborate closely with design teams by clearly communicating product vision, functionality, materials, features, and target costing requirements.

· Hand off approved concepts to the design team and oversee the entire development process from initial idea through design execution, prototype creation, sample development, costing, testing, and final production approval.

· Source and manage domestic and international manufacturing partners, with a strong focus on cost optimization, quality, compliance, and speed-to-market.

· Identify new materials, construction methods, packaging innovations, and cost-saving opportunities across global supply chains.

· Drive product innovation by continuously researching emerging trends, technologies, and manufacturing capabilities to develop unique and differentiated products rather than line extensions or copycat items.

· Review samples, provide detailed feedback, and ensure products meet design intent, quality standards, retailer requirements, and target margins.

· Work cross-functionally with sourcing, design, merchandising, sales, and operations teams to bring products to market efficiently and successfully.

· Manage multiple projects simultaneously with urgency, accuracy, strong organizational skills, and exceptional follow-through.

Qualifications:

· Proven experience in product development and global sourcing (pet category strongly preferred)

· Strong understanding of retail environments including off-price, mass, and e-commerce channels

· Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel

· Ability to work quickly, prioritize effectively, and execute under tight timelines

· Willingness to travel frequently (domestic and international)

· Proficiency in AI tools for concept creation, presentations, and workflow efficiency

· Strong communication, organizational, and negotiation skills

· Positive, drama-free attitude with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset

· High energy, adaptability, and solutions-driven personality