Michelle Chen: Product Development Manager in Los Angeles, CA

* Supervise/lead Product Development team through execution of sourcing strategy. * Manage costing process by issuing multiple rounds of RFQs to vendors, monitoring initial margins, negotiating vendor costs, and maintaining master cost chart. * Manage vendors’ adherence to SMS calendar dates with constant communication, WIPs, and issuance of SMS fabric order on calendar. * Track and prioritize a high style count with multiple deliverables to ensure deadlines and in store dates are met. * Coordinate efficient vendor communication in weekly meetings on site and via conference calls. * Analyze master style data for thorough understanding of style and fabric counts, approvals, development counts, etc. to ensure deliverables are met. * Collaborate with Technical Design Manager to ensure consistency and accuracy of information across teams. * Monitor and manage trim inventories to provide shortest lead times possible for all vendors. * Identify potential production, quality, costing and design issues and make appropriate recommendations. * Guide team members to provide as many solutions as possible on any potential issues before they arise so that all teams can make informed decisions in a timely manner. * Foster open communication and team environment.