Our client
is an advanced contemporary apparel and accessories brand
Role Overview: We are seeking a freelance professional to provide support to the Accessories team. The role focuses on handbag product development, including materials, ensuring smooth execution from prototype through SMS and market handoff. Working on-site in New York, you will partner closely with Design, Materials, Production, and external vendors to keep development on track and maintain operational flow.
Product Development Associate Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day communication with overseas vendors and local suppliers
- Create/update BOMs, WIP charts, and seasonal trackers
- Support prototype and SMS sample development, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with design direction
- Maintain style and cost setup in RLM Materials
- Organize and maintain the materials library, seasonal binders, and archive
- Maintain and update the materials tracking chart across development and SMS
- Collect and organize LDS/FDS sheets in shared drives
- Create material and sample POs as needed
- Prepare packages for outgoing shipments (reference samples, color and quality standards)
- Receive, unpack, and organize incoming shipments daily
- Maintain organization of the office and sample storage areas
Product Development Associate Qualifications:
- Proven product development experience in handbags/accessories
- Strong knowledge of raw materials, hardware, trims, and technical construction for handbags
- Proficiency in PLM/RLM systems and Excel
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple priorities
