Are you passionate about craftsmanship, coming up with innovative solutions to construction problems and delivering high-quality products? Join our dynamic team at MICHI (michiny.com | @michi_ny), where we are redefining the luxury activewear market with our stylish and versatile designs. We are seeking a Product Developer to help us manage and enhance our product development process.
About Us:
At MICHI we believe in keeping women moving forward through high performance products designed through a lens of style and substance. We elevate every move, at any time of day, through any phase of life. Our brand is known for its high-quality, fashion-forward activewear that seamlessly transitions from workouts to everyday life. We are committed to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices, using premium materials to create pieces that last.
The Role:
As a Product Developer, you will play a crucial role in shaping our product offerings and ensuring top-notch quality. Your responsibilities will include:
Product Development:
- Lead the development of premium active lifestyle collections, from initial concept through to final production.
- Collaborate with the design team to translate design concepts into commercially viable products.
- Ensure all products meet the brand’s standards for quality, fit, and performance.
Raw Materials Sourcing and Inventory Management:
- Identify and source high-quality materials and fabrics that align with the brand’s luxury performance positioning.
- Work closely with suppliers to ensure materials meet design and performance specifications.
- Oversee the management of raw materials and inventory to ensure optimal levels and prevent shortages.
Technical Design:
- Oversee the creation of technical sketches, tech packs, and product specifications.
- Ensure accurate communication of design intent and construction details to manufacturers.
Sample Management:
- Manage the sampling process, including fittings, revisions, and approvals.
- Ensure timely delivery of samples for design reviews and sales meetings.
Production Planning and Oversight:
- Develop and implement production schedules to meet company goals and deadlines.
- Oversee the entire production process, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
- Coordinate with design, development, and supply chain teams to align production plans with business objectives.
- Monitor production schedules and quality control processes to ensure on-time delivery and adherence to quality standards.
- Review and approve cut sheets to ensure accuracy and alignment with design specifications.
Cost Management:
- Develop and manage production budgets, ensuring cost-effective operations.
- Implement strategies to minimize production costs while maintaining quality standards.
- Track and analyze production expenses to identify areas for improvement and cost savings.
Quality Control:
- Establish and maintain high-quality standards throughout the production process.
- Conduct regular quality checks and audits to ensure products meet brand specifications.
- Address and resolve any production issues or discrepancies promptly.
Trend Analysis:
- Stay updated on market trends, competitor products, and consumer preferences to inform product development decisions.
- Conduct regular market research and analysis to identify new opportunities and areas for innovation.
Team Collaboration:
- Work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, marketing, and sales, to ensure alignment on product strategies and goals.
- Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a collaborative and creative work environment.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development, technical design, or production management; preferably in premium women's activewear, luxury, contemporary or related categories.
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Production Management or a related field.
- Strong technical knowledge of garment construction, fit, and fabrics.
- Proficiency with tech pack creation and management.
- Extensive experience with stretch or technical fabrics – particularly in activewear, swimwear or outerwear.
- Excellent project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator and PLM systems.
- Demonstrated ability to manage supplier relationships and production timelines effectively.
- Exceptional attention to detail and a strong sense of aesthetics.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Why You’ll Love This Role:
- Dive into the world of premium fashion and wellness while making a tangible impact.
- Shape our brand’s product offerings and ensure the highest quality standards.
- Work in a dynamic environment where innovation and creativity are celebrated.
- Join a team that values collaboration, growth, and making an impact.
How to Apply:
Join us in our mission to empower women through movement and style. Please email your cover letter and resume to careers@michiny.com. Include the job title "Product Developer" in the subject line of your message.
About MICHI:
Established in 2010, MICHI has been at the forefront of luxury activewear. Founded by Michelle Watson from her NYC apartment, with a purpose to elevate women by enhancing performance and igniting self-expression. Our vision is to make the world’s most versatile apparel for women by creating harmony between style from function. Our products are crafted with care using certified and sustainable materials in ethical factories, ensuring that each piece stands the test of time.
VERSATILITY
We believe people should own fewer, better things that last and perform double duty. Our products don’t look, feel or perform like ordinary activewear. Our products are developed for both your sweetest and sweatiest workouts so you can jump, bend, sway and sweat without worry.
We believe that design is about how something works. Look and feel are just as important as functionality. We fuse functionality, elevated aesthetic and comfort to create versatile products that look and feel appropriate for even the most unexpected occasion.
FLATTERING 3-D FIT
Our beauty standard is a three-dimensional woman’s body complete with curves, muscle and battle scars. We design in 3-D considering every angle — front, back, side — not to mention what happens when you’re upside down.
We celebrate women’s bodies by designing for movement, comfort and to flatter all shapes and sizes. Our intentional design lines and meticulous construction accentuate curves, create long and lean lines, hide flaws and solve the problems that emerge during movement.
DURABILITY
Our customers rave that our technical products wash and wear better than any other activewear they own. Our products stand the test of time.
We want women to feel confident about their investment in our products so we take pride in our exceptional materials and craftsmanship. Made in Canada manufacturing, certified technical fabrics, luxurious yet durable fabrics, intense wear tests, lasting construction techniques, high quality details, products that take a beating and still last for years — these are some of the things we are known for.
We cater to your dynamic life experiences, even the ones you never thought appropriate in activewear. Our products are created for day to night comfort, the feeling of being put together, and the confidence to be ready for any spontaneous experience.
Join our journey to revolutionize the activewear industry and make a meaningful impact on women’s lives.