Description
Arden Companies is seeking a motivated & talented R&D Project Manager, who is passionate about consumer-centered design. The R&D Project Manager will help manage research and development projects that bring innovative solutions in the areas of material development, product, and processes in the Outdoor Soft Home Category.
Reporting directly to the VP of Global Sourcing & Asia Operations, the R&D Project Manager, will guide a wide variety of projects that shape the future at Arden. This position will collaborate with a high energy creative team including design, PD, sales, engineering and sourcing to help concept, manage, and shepherd R&D projects in home soft-lines material, product, and process development. This position will connect with all aspects of the business and is never the same thing twice. The ideal candidate would flexible and collaborative with strong skills in project management, presentation, and communication, but being detail oriented, and having a true passion for innovation are a must.
Primary Responsibilities
- Gather and build clear project objectives
- Collaborate with a global team to Research, Develop, Prototype, and Test new concepts
- Manage and organize program details, item specs, and research data within Arden’s specific product management system
- Clearly communicate project findings and item specs by methods specific to each project. Communication formats can include, but are not limited to, artistic renderings, CAD models, physical models, multi-media presentations, and written reports
- Initiate and direct the development of models and prototypes to test and qualify key product characteristics, manufacturability, and aesthetics
- Prepare and present new product concepts, internally and externally as needed
- Maintain a working knowledge of material and process technologies applicable to new product development
- Communicate effectively with teammates, internal and external resources to ensure new product development success
Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree/diploma, preferably in Design or Project Management
Required Skills
- Highly detail oriented – Must be able to see the big picture while managing the details
- Ability at solving complex design problems with simple and elegant solutions
- Strong competency in a visual communication tool (2D or 3D), Microsoft Office
- Willingness to travel for research, development, and inspiration
- Strong sketching skills are a plus
Arden Companies is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. on a permanent basis. Arden Companies participates in the Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify Program to verify the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.