Product Development Manager

As a Product Development Manager at Keen, your main responsibilities include managing supplier relationships, overseeing the product development and production calendar, and ensuring that all records such as work in progress and purchase orders are accurately maintained. You will collaborate closely with both suppliers and internal teams, track key performance indicators, and create product databases for our B2B partners.

To excel as a Product Development Manager at Keen, you should have significant experience in the fashion or fashion accessories industry. Strong project management skills, attention to detail in record-keeping, and the ability to communicate effectively with suppliers are essential. Familiarity with e-commerce dynamics and key performance indicators will also be crucial to your success in this role.

The work environment at Keen for a Product Development Manager is hybrid remote and in-office, providing flexibility to adapt to various time zones due to our global clientele. You'll be part of a dynamic team culture that values creativity and collaboration, making it a great place to grow both personally and professionally.

At Keen, we prioritize the growth of our employees. As a Product Development Manager, you will have access to various professional development opportunities, including workshops, training sessions, and resources to enhance your skills in product management and the fashion industry.

Keen understands the importance of work-life balance for its employees. As a Product Development Manager, you will enjoy flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones, as well as a special day off on your birthday, ensuring you have time to celebrate while helping you remain productive and engaged in your work.

When answering this question, share specific examples from your past roles that highlight your knowledge of product development processes, including how you've managed supplier relationships and tracked production timelines.

Discuss your methods for maintaining accurate records, whether it be through digital tools, spreadsheets, or other systems you have developed or improved. Be prepared to share an example where accuracy in tracking helped resolve an issue or improved efficiency.

Share your approach to relationship management, including communication practices that you find work best, such as regular check-ins, feedback loops, and fostering a partnership mentality to enhance collaboration.

Discuss a specific instance where you encountered a production delay. Describe the steps you took to resolve the issue, including how you communicated with your team and suppliers to keep everyone informed and on track.

Identify the KPIs you find most relevant, such as on-time delivery rates, cost efficiency, and stock levels. Emphasize the importance of these metrics in optimizing operational efficiency and improving supplier performance.

Explain your process of integrating creativity with practical considerations. Mention methods like brainstorming sessions paired with project management tools to keep creativity flowing while still adhering to timelines and budgets.

Be prepared to detail a particular product launch, highlighting your role, the challenges faced, and the strategies employed to ensure success, including market analysis, promotion tactics, and any measurable outcomes.

Discuss your approach to analyzing competitors, whether it's through market reports, trend forecasting, or social media analysis. Highlight how you apply these insights to inform product development decisions.

Share the resources and tools you utilize like fashion trade shows, industry publications, or online communities. Emphasize the importance of ongoing education and adaptation to remain ahead of trends.

This is your opportunity to connect your personal values and career goals to Keen's mission. Highlight what excites you about their culture, their vision in the fashion industry, and how you see yourself contributing to the team's success.