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Director of Product Development

Kravet
Full-time
On-site
Thomasville, North Carolina, United States
$100,000 - $110,000 USD yearly
AI Product Manager

Job description

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Director of Product Development to lead the creation and execution of new furniture collections for a high-end manufacturing operation. This role requires deep technical knowledge of upholstery, woodworking, and finishing processes, along with proven leadership in guiding teams through the full development lifecycle - from initial concept and prototyping to production and launch.Β Β 

The ideal candidate is as comfortable working with tools and materials in the sample room as they are directing strategic planning in the boardroom. They will be a key driver of quality, innovation, and craftsmanship across the organization.Β Β 

Key Responsibilities:Β 

  • Lead and actively participate in the hands-on development of new furniture designs, ensuring aesthetic excellence and production feasibility.Β Β 

  • Oversee prototyping and sample development in collaboration with in-house pattern makers, frame builders, and upholsterers.Β Β 

  • Provide direct guidance on construction techniques, materials, ergonomics, and comfort with an emphasis on craftsmanship and durability.

  • Work side-by-side with the factory floor and development teams to solve design and engineering challenges in real-time.Β Β 

  • Collaborate with internal and external designers to translate creative concepts into functional, buildable products.Β Β 

  • Own the development timeline from design through to production, including costing, testing, and specification documentation.Β Β 

  • Maintain a deep, practical knowledge of raw materials, including hardwoods, veneers, foam, springs,Β  textiles, and finishes.Β 

  • Ensure that all new products meet quality standards and brand expectations, while also being manufacturable within cost and timeline goals.Β Β 

  • Support continuous improvement of production methods, tools, and materials to elevate efficiency without compromising craftsmanship.Β Β 

  • Serve as a mentor to junior developers, model makers, and production leads, fostering a culture of pride in workmanship and product excellence.Β Β 

Job requirements

Experience/Certifications/Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Furniture Design, Industrial Design, Engineering, or related field preferred.Β Β 

  • Minimum 10 years of direct experience in high-end furniture product development, with at least 5 in aΒ  leadership or senior technical role.Β Β 

  • Proven hands-on expertise in upholstery, frame construction, finishing, and sample making.Β 

  • Deep understanding of both traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing techniques.Β 

  • Ability to interpret design drawings, build prototypes, and modify construction based on material orΒ  production needs.Β Β 

  • Strong project management and organizational skills with an emphasis on clear communication and deadline accountability.Β Β 

  • Proficient in development tools such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks, as well as knowledge of shop-floor practices.Β Β 

  • Passion for quality, design integrity, and the end user customer experience.Β Β 

  • Willingness to be on the factory floor regularly and engage directly with production teams.

Abilities/Key Competencies/Skills:

  • Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.

  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.

  • Superior written and verbal communication skills.

  • Must be able to work thoughtfully and thoroughly with continuous attention to detail

  • Ability to learn quickly and retain a wide range of small details concerning multiple product types, tasks, system processes, issues, and/or projects

  • Comfortable multi-tasking, or, pivoting between tasks on the fly as the need arises.

  • Willingness to learn new products, procedures, and processes as business needs change.

  • Exercise good judgment and critical thinking when dealing with escalated situations.

  • Offer suggestions for process improvements and/or streamlining workflows whenever possible.

  • Must be able to work thoughtfully and thoroughly with continuous attention to detail.

  • A strong work ethic and friendly attitude, with the ability to be a team player, and stay self-motivated.

Preferred Traits: Β 

  • Creative problem-solver with a practical mindset.Β Β 

  • Detail-driven, with a deep respect for traditional techniques and modern innovation.Β 

  • Collaborative, team-oriented leader with a strong presence and a roll-up-your-sleeves approach.Β 

  • Committed to maintaining high craftsmanship standards in a scalable, production-focused environment.Β 

Organizational Relationship:

Identify who the position reports to and/or who reports to this position:

  • This position reports to the VP of Operations.

  • This position supervises a team of employees.

Travel Requirements (if any):

  • Less than 5%.


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