Product Development Associate

JOB TITLE: Product Development Associate: DIRECT TO RETAIL

LOCATION: Dublin

REPORTS TO: Manager Prod. Dev. EMEA – Home & Fashion

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Provides creative support for key DTR Fashion retailers through design briefs and point of view boards to increase 365 Fashion Business.

Reviews designs and products submitted by key DTR Fashion retailer through WB product development/approval process across Fashion & Home.

Ensures submissions and product designs featuring any Warner Bros. owned properties are reviewed within a contractually stipulated timeframe to ensure compliance with Consumer Products policies. Works with Softline’s Hub to support & produce compelling product which best represents WB brands at retail.

Undertake research projects with the PD team to maintain knowledge of the competitive landscape. Support Creative in London with the creation of Mood boards, toolkits, comp shops, Fashion graphics to inspire key licensees as required

Visit retailer offices as agreed to give onsite advice and approval.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work closely with DTR Softline’s Hub to achieve best results.

• Provide creative support tailored to WBD business needs through DTR briefs and point of view boards to inspire key fashion retailers.

• Provide concept CADS, design and product development support for key DTR fashion retailers where required.

• Reviews samples and designs to ensure all submissions meet the brand guidelines and legal requirements.

• Acts as the brand ambassador on all product submissions making decisions based on whether the product is in line with brand strategy, creative strategy, and product quality standards.

• Approves or rejects based on the creative standard and legal guidelines set.

• With knowledge of the manufacturing process and a knowledge of Warner Bros. policies and procedures and brand guidelines reviews and provides detailed comments on concept, pre-production, and final samples submitted by licensees on items including product, packaging, marketing, point of sale.

• Maintains a one-on-one relationship with EMEA counterparts, as well Designers, PD, Commercial, Franchise Teams etc. to ensure understanding and a smooth working approval process.

• Drives creative, trend-driven product initiatives and newness that contribute directly to agreed KPIs, revenue targets and wider business goals, in close partnership with commercial counterparts.

JOB QUALIFICATION STANDARDSWork Experience

• Minimum 3 years-experience in product development, design.
• Fashion and Home experience a must.
• Design Degree or qualification preferred.
• Experience working with Highstreet fashion retailers preferred.

Knowledge/Skills

• PC Skills: Windows, Microsoft Word and Excel required. Working Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop. Illustrator and In-Design
• Must have the ability to absorb and respond quickly to given information.
• Must have the ability to learn the various guidelines relating to WB Intellectual properties and distinguish different styles of art from others to accurately log and review submissions.
• Must have the ability to learn about art production and manufacturing processes in general.
• Must be detailed and have an artistic eye.
• Must have the ability to learn about handling digital and ai images.
• Must have good spelling, grammar, punctuation, and English usage and be able to accurately describe images in words and accurately record all verbiage in the database correctly.
• Must be able to sift through information and identify priorities.
• Must be able to interface professionally with key fashion retailers, buyers, departments, licensees, and all levels of management.

Other Requirements

• Excellent organizational abilities.
• Must have the ability to acquire and work with knowledge of copyrights and trademarks for use in product approvals.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and tactfully with all levels of personnel, inside and outside of the company.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize work effectively.