Vice President of Marketing and Product Development

Our client is a supplier of textiles and craft related products that primarily sells into the retail craft and fabric chains.  Their clients include mass merchandise, specialty retail chain stores, wholesalers and distributors located throughout the United States.

We are conducting a search for a Vice President of Marketing and Product Development that will direct these efforts for the company. He/She will be responsible for developing and managing the day-to-day product line maintenance that will promote the long term growth and profitability for the company as well as increasing the profile of their brands and bring new products and programs to market. This position will report directly to the President and CEO of the company.

Key responsibilities for this position include:Direct the product development effort to identify, develop and launch appropriate new product programs that achieve business unit objectives.  Work will all departments to assure the timely implementation of product programs.Develop annual and long term strategic marketing plans for the business.Work closely with the sales department to structure and position new products for key accounts.Translate key account input into unique products, programs, and marketing initiatives by directing the product management team.Develop measurable goals for the product development team to assist in achieving company growth objectives through monitoring timelines, gross margin objectives, SKU rationalization, and departmental expense budgets.Perform market research, trend and sales analysis to identify new opportunities and recommend appropriate action.Attend trade shows, customer presentations and visit with vendors as required.

Required experience for this position include:Seven to ten years of product development, category management, or buying experience in the textile or craft industries.Demonstrated leadership ability to foster creative talent while meeting deadlines and delivering results.Experience with major retailers and wholesale distributors.Strong creative and color sense and the ability to identify trends and translate into actionable programs.First hand knowledge of working with import/offshore manufacturers.Experience in utilizing outside design and product development resources.Proficiency in MS Office including Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook.BA or BS degree in related field of study.Ability to travel as needed.

If you possess these qualifications and experience and are interested in applying for this position, please forward your resume in MS Word format via email to dean@sssclt.com . Please refer to Job ID Code #09CLT001 and include your salary history when submitting your resume.