Simkhai is searching for a talented Manager of Accessories. This position will be responsible for all stages of the product life cycle, from initial concept development through production. It will collaborate closely with design, merchandising, Sales and logistic teams to deliver high-quality products that align with our brand vision and meet market demands. This is an in office position.
Responsibilities:
Product Development
- Lead the design and development of handbag and footwear collections, ensuring alignment with market trends, industry standard and customer preferences.
- Collaborate with the design team to create innovative and functional products that enhance the brand’s value.
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify opportunities for product innovation and improvement.
- Gather and analyze customer feedback to inform future product development and enhancements.
- Create and maintain product information during the development stage.
Project Management
- Create and manage a master calendar for product development, ensuring all milestone dates are met.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure timely execution of project timelines.
Costing and Cost Engineering
- Develop and manage costing structures to meet margin expectations, analyzing costs to optimize profitability.
- Work closely with the merch and sales team to ensure alignment of pricing strategies with market and cost requirements.
Strategic Sourcing
- Identify and establish relationships with suppliers that support the growth needs of the handbag and footwear categories.
- Negotiate contracts and pricing with vendors to secure favorable terms and materials.
Technical Support
- Provide technical guidance during the product development phase, ensuring materials, construction techniques, and quality standards meet specifications.
- Work with suppliers and manufacturers to troubleshoot issues and optimize production processes.
- Maintain product manual and product specifications for the category to align with the distribution need for both our retail partners as well as DTC channels.
Production Management
- Oversee the production timeline, ensuring timely delivery of products to meet seasonal deadlines.
- Manage production purchases and budget.
- Manage and communicate WIP reports with all stakeholders from development through production stage.
- Monitor production quality, conduct factory audits, and implement quality control measures to ensure product integrity.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with the merchandising team to develop product assortments and pricing strategies that maximize profitability.
- Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to support product launches and promotional initiatives.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design/Accessories, Merchandising, or a related field.
- Must have 7+ years of experience in accessories product management, with a focus on luxury handbags and footwear.
- Must have demonstrated understanding of the product development process, from design to production.
- Must have demonstrated knowledge of construction, material selection, and costing/pricing in both handbags and footwear.
- Must have proven project management skills with the ability to manage timelines and budgets effectively.
- Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams.
- Must have proven ability to work independently and proactively, taking the initiative to identify challenges and implement solutions to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and effectively, driving results in a dynamic environment.
- Must have passion for fashion and a keen eye for design and trends.
Benefits:
We offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, FSA, 401(k) and PTO. Additionally, we offer a generous clothing allowance and 50% employee discount off retail.
About Us:
SIMKHAI designs for the elevated everyday with innovative techniques and timeless craftsmanship.
Founded in 2010 by designer Jonathan Simkhai, the studio takes inspiration from architects and sculptors alike, blending progressive construction techniques with intimate hand-detailing to create truly special garments and lifestyle design.
A 2015 winner of the prestigious CFDA/ Vogue Fashion Fund, the studio has earned recognition for its original silhouettes, quality constructions, and timeless elegance.
SIMKHAI continues to nurture an inspired creative community around the brand’s home in Los Angeles, sharing their designs and stories with women around the world who live artful, unapologetic lives.
