The Product Manager (Hardlines) is responsible for delivering the new hardlines product concepts into production on schedule within the parameters of price, product function, play value and quality. They will work closely with the Brand Managers, Quality Manager, the HK Product Development team, and Graphics/Design teams and will be responsible for ensuring the new products meet the Brand Manager and Brand team's expectations for both the UK and International markets.

Responsibilities

§ Take full ownership of the development process for each Hardline product. Writing the briefs, managing the UK developed prototype samples, reviewing all factory product costs and initial samples, coordinating all additional revisions to the design to deliver the final agreed product. Taking direction from the Brand Managers and liaising with the HK Development team to achieve the best product solution.

§ Take financial ownership for your product development costs within agreed budgets. Monitoring and coordinating factory spend, all prototype samples quotes, commissioning external resources and reviewing product tooling expenditure, adjusting spending where needed.

§ Once a product is ordered from a factory, you will manage its product development process into full production. Coordinating all aspects of the process with the HK team, Design/Graphic teams, and the Brand Managers.

§ Work to critical path deadlines for product manufacture and shipping provided by the Brand Managers and the HK Product teams.

§ Work directly with the Quality Manager to deliver every product to the required safety and test standards, including risk assessments and due diligence. Adjusting the design as required ensuring each product is safe and to the highest standards possible within commercial restraints.

§ Work in collaboration with the Licensing Manager and the Brand Manager to get your products approved by the Licensor at every requested stage of the process. Uploading all approvals to online portals as required.

§ Responsible for ordering and coordinating prototype product samples for Marketing, Sales, and Product Development team needs. Controlling the specification, delivery, and availability.

§ Assist the Brand Managers with preparing material for Licensors, sales or marketing presentations when requested.

§ Build a strong working relationship with the HK Product Development team as well as the Graphics, Brand Managers and Design teams.

§ Understand your role in delivering the company's objectives and take responsibility for your personal growth. Develop a personal development plan with your Line Manager and solicit regular feedback on your performance.

Key Capabilities

§ You will have a minimum of 3+ years knowledge and experience working within a Product Development environment (preferably within the toy industry). You will have an eye for detail and an understanding of production and assembly of plastic consumer items, including knowledge of plastic injection moulding, plastic materials, and related processes. You will possess basic understanding of Quality Assurance for mass produced consumer products.

§ You thrive on being accountable for the successful delivery of projects and or products against set deadline and budgets which is demonstrated through your project management skills - the ability to multi-task, effectively manage risk, issues, time and people with discretion and tact while remaining calm under pressure and maintaining your accuracy and attention to detail - your proven track record is reflective of this.

§ You will have a passion for play and the initiative to deliver creative thinking and problem solving throughout a product’s journey.

§ You will be expected to develop a clear understanding of the importance of insights and have a thorough knowledge of the competitive market and conditions.

§ You are proactive, with the enthusiasm and drive to achieve at pace in the face of tight deadlines, while being curious and comfortable to reach for the stars and challenge the efficiency of a process, project, or task. You are also adaptable to changing circumstances and accepting of new ideas and change initiatives.

§ You will be an excellent communicator with an honest, positive, and friendly approach. You are receptive to feedback and comfortable expressing opinions and providing information/key points clearly and respectfully, taking care to manage your impression on others. You use this strength to influence the business at all levels.

§ You're a reliable team player who is professional and collaborative in your approach to all tasks with all colleagues, customers, and external service providers, and you possess the ability to build and maintain strong working relationships - we are one family at Golden Bear.

§ You will role-model our company values and use them to guide personal behaviours, creating a workplace culture that is consistent with the company's founding principles.

If you feel this role looks right for you and you feel you can contribute significantly to our growth plans and want to join our team, it is time to get your application started. Please apply with an up-to-date CV and covering letter stating why you feel you are suitable for the role, also detailing your salary requirements to careers@goldenbeartoys.co.uk by Monday 28 August 2023.