Director of Product Development and Merchandising

The Director of Product Development and Merchandising at CALPAK is responsible for leading all phases of product development from conception to launch, developing comprehensive product strategies, managing package needs, overseeing vendor relationships, and ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards. This role is pivotal in driving product goals that align with the company's business objectives.

To qualify for the Director of Product Development and Merchandising role at CALPAK, candidates should have at least 8 years of experience in product development, specifically with bags and accessories, as well as 4 years managing teams. Strong knowledge of handbag construction, materials, and global manufacturing processes is essential, along with excellent communication and project management skills.

The Director of Product Development and Merchandising at CALPAK plays a crucial role in fostering cross-functional collaboration. You'll partner with design, marketing, operations, and supply chain teams to achieve smooth product launches, ensuring every stakeholder is informed and engaged throughout the product development process.

The Director of Product Development and Merchandising at CALPAK enjoys a comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401K options with company matching, accrued paid time off, and even a dog-friendly office environment. This is part of CALPAK’s commitment to supporting our team’s overall well-being.

To thrive as the Director of Product Development and Merchandising at CALPAK, candidates should be highly collaborative, driven, and innovative. A proactive problem-solving mindset, coupled with the ability to work comfortably in ambiguous situations, will enable you to lead your team effectively and contribute positively to our dynamic workplace culture.

When answering this question, highlight your ability to balance multiple projects while maintaining clear communication with all stakeholders. Discuss your project management methodologies, such as Agile or Waterfall, and how you set realistic timelines while accommodating any unforeseen challenges.

In your response, emphasize your negotiation skills, relationship-building approach, and how you closely monitor vendor performance. Explain how you've previously dealt with vendor challenges, maintaining quality standards, and cost efficiency.

Discuss your systematic approach to quality testing by integrating checkpoints and compliance assessments at every stage of production. Mention any specific quality control tools or methodologies you’ve employed to maintain high standards and ensure products meet regulatory requirements.

Illustrate how you utilize market research and performance metrics to inform product decisions. Provide an example of how data-driven insights have influenced previous product strategies, from inception to final launch, to drive successful outcomes.

Offer a detailed instance of a product launch you managed, discussing your role in strategy formulation, planning, and execution. Highlight any challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the positive results achieved post-launch.

Talk about your proactive approach to staying current with industry news, attending trade shows, and following relevant publications. Emphasize how you apply these trends to innovate within your product lines and make informed decisions.

Describe methods you use to encourage creativity and idea-sharing among team members. Stress the importance of providing a safe environment for experimentation, offering incentives for innovation, and celebrating both successes and learning opportunities.

Be prepared to recount specific situations where you encountered challenges within your team dynamics, project management, or external factors. Discuss your conflict resolution skills and how your leadership style helped navigate and resolve these issues effectively.

Illustrate your structured onboarding process that encompasses initial training, mentorship, and integration into the team culture. Emphasize how this process ensures new hires understand both the technical aspects of product development and the company values.

Share your insights on emerging trends in product development, such as sustainable practices, technology integration, and changed consumer preferences. Provide an outlook on how these trends influence product strategy and development at CALPAK.