Don’t meet every requirement listed below? Design Group is committed to building a talented network of diverse employees, so if you’re excited about this position but your background doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply regardless. You may be just the right candidate for this or other opportunities.
Location(s)
Budd Lake, NJ
WHO IS DESIGN GROUP?
Design Group Americas is one of the U.S. leaders of gift packaging, crafts, décor, and creative play products with a portfolio of over 50 national brands, sold nationwide and around the globe in the mass, middle and specialty markets. We are proud to serve the best and biggest retailers in the market like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and JoAnn Stores PLUS over 7,000 independent specialty retailers.
Design Group is looking for an Assistant Product Manager to support the Senior Marketing and Product Development Manager and overall department in all aspects of product, product development, packaging specifications, costing, timelines, and schedules of products. This is an on-site position with flexibility to work from home 2-3 days per week, depending on projects. This role works with ribbon, accessories, printed plant sleeves, pot covers, counter rolls, tissues, and more!
WHAT WILL I DO IN THIS ROLE?
Assist in product lifecycle from inception through design, manufacturing, and exit strategy. Coordinate product releases according to a defined timeline. Create and maintain line list and tracking information for assigned product lines and customer specific programs. Work with internal departments to ensure timely item costing and set up. Collaborate on new product development to create new product introductions and expand existing lines. Participate in product reviews with marketing and sales. Attend line reviews, SKU rationalization, and assist with implementation of exit strategies. Develop and coordinate sales materials and tools such as samples, sell sheets, brochures, newsletters, product introductions, color cards, etc. working with graphic design to execute. Work with prototype team on implementation of product presentations for internal, customer, and sales team requests including inspiration and gathering samples. Assist with photography needs, execute work orders, and fulfill sample requests for photo shoots. Assist in the development of PowerPoint presentations for category, seasonal and special projects. Maintain competitive files and products. Conduct market research to understand trends, including store checks. Respond to customer service and other department requests and inquiries.
WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?
Bachelor’s degree in marketing or similar discipline or equivalent level of on-the-job training. 1-3 years of product development experience in a consumer products organization. Experience in SKU management. Understanding of product lifecycle and selling tools. Social Media experience a plus. Strong problem solving and analytical skills required; creative and solution-driven with the ability to multi-task. Excellent interpersonal, listening, verbal and written skills. Must be deadline conscious, detail oriented and self-motivated with the ability to self-direct priorities. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word and Power Point. Travel for trend trips or trade shows may be required.
WHAT DOES DESIGN GROUP OFFER ME?
We offer a comprehensive employee benefits package including medical insurance and 401k with matching program as well as a paid time off plan including family leave options. Design Group believes in a fun, flexible work environment that allows your creativity to flourish and grow.
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Design Group is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. We are committed to building a talented network of diverse employees. We are looking at all products with new eyes to ensure we are representing diversity through design, marketing, and social media. We are working diligently to increase the number of minority-owned suppliers and freelancers that we partner with and product donations are being made to organizations that align with our support of inclusion and non-discrimination. Internally, we are working to increase the diversity within our workforce through multiple channels such as an internship program for aspiring black and brown designers and a revamped employee referral program to encourage employees to refer minority applicants. Our diversity initiatives are designed to make us a well-rounded and inclusive employer.