The Role:

The Product Development Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing American Tall's end-to-end product development process, ensuring products are delivered on time, within company standards, and aligned with seasonal business objectives. This role acts as the central project management and leadership function within Product Development, partnering closely with Merchandising, Planning, Design, Sourcing, Production, and external vendor partners to drive execution across the product lifecycle.

The Product Development Manager oversees development calendars, workflow management, vendor communications, PLM governance, and team performance while ensuring the successful execution of product milestones. This role is

accountable for maintaining development accuracy, improving operational efficiencies, identifying and mitigating risks, and fostering a high-performing PD team through coaching, collaboration, and continuous process improvement. The successful candidate combines strong apparel product expertise, leadership and team building skills, and business acumen to support American Tall's commitment to delivering premium products and exceptional customer experiences.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT LEADERSHIP

• Leads the end-to-end product development process, ensuring seasonal milestones, timelines, and deliverables are achieved. Partners with Merchandising, Technical Design Management (TDM), and cross-functional teams to align priorities, resources, and execution.
• Reviews and approves seasonal development calendars and monitors adherence throughout the product lifecycle.
• Establishes and maintains product development tracking, reporting, and workflow management tools to ensure visibility and accountability.
• Anticipates and communicates development risks, challenges, and delays, implementing solutions to minimize business impact.
• Provides regular development updates, insights, and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Ensures products are developed in accordance with quality standards, business objectives, and delivery expectations.

TEAM LEADERSHIP & PEOPLE MANAGEMENT

• Leads the Product Development team members through ongoing feedback, one-on-one coaching and mentorship.
• Partners with the TDM to balance workloads, allocate resources effectively, and support team performance. Conducts performance reviews and collaborates with Human Resources on employee development, compensation recommendations, succession planning, and retention initiatives.
• Manages vacation schedules and departmental coverage to ensure operational continuity.
• Fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture through engagement initiatives and team-building activities.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLECE & SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT

• Maintains ownership of development tracking tools (PD Trackers), PLM processes, libraries, project workflows, and reporting requirements.
• Leads vendor development meetings and ensures effective communication and follow-through throughout the development lifecycle.
• Identifies and implements new SOPs to improve workflow, consistency, and visibility of styles throughout their development journey

Experience, Education, & Designations

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in Fashion, Apparel, Product Development, Merchandising, Textile Management, Business, or a related field; equivalent industry experience will be considered.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in apparel Product Development, Product Management, Merchandising, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of people leadership, team management, or mentorship experience.
• Strong knowledge of apparel product development, garment construction, fabrics, trims, costing, sourcing, and international manufacturing processes.
• Experience working with offshore factories, global vendor partners, and international supply chains.
• Experience managing cross-functional projects and seasonal development calendars.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Outlook.
• Experience with PLM systems such as WFX, Centric, Backbone, or equivalent platforms.Experience with project management systems such as Asana or similar workflow management tools.
• Direct-to-consumer, retail, or e-commerce apparel experience is considered an asset.

Knowledge, Skills, & Attributes

• Strong interpersonal skills including analytical, problem-solving, organizational, issue resolution, and internal/external relationship management.
• Decisive and strategic leader with a proven track record.
• Passionate about mentoring, coaching, and training team members according to individual goals and objectives.
• Comprehensive knowledge of cross-functional responsibilities and the product creation timeline, from design through finished product.
• Experience dealing with offshore sourcing and international manufacturing is an asset.
• Self-motivated, strong sense of urgency, collaborative approach.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional team environment.
• Ability to work through others by delegating and distributing work to meet goals.

Compensation and Benefits

At American Tall, we take pride in taking care of our employees and strive to create an environment where you can flourish. When you join our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your personal and professional development.

Our Compensation Philosophy

We are a meritocracy and believe in rewarding impact, accountability, and strong performance. Our compensation approach is designed to be fair, consistent, and aligned with the scope and responsibilities of each role, while supporting the attraction and retention of high-performers.

The typical hiring range for this position is $95,00 - $110,000 annually. Final compensation may vary based on job-related factors such as skills, experience, and demonstrated capabilities, as well as internal equity and total rewards considerations.

Why Join Us?

At American Tall, we take care of our employees and strive to create an environment where you can flourish. When you join our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your personal and professional development.

Healthy Lunch Program (onsite only): Enjoy delicious and nutritious meals curated by our personal chef, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Meals are $2 a day and all proceeds go to charity. Vegan and gluten free options are available.

Annual Performance Bonus: Your hard work and dedication are rewarded with an annual bonus, reflecting your contributions to our success.

RRSP Matching: Plan for your future with our RRSP matching program, helping you build your retirement savings.

Health Benefits: We offer comprehensive health benefits for both single employees and

families, ensuring you and your loved ones are well taken care of.

Tuition Reimbursement Program: We support professional development. We will reimburse up to $1000 a year for courses taken outside of work to further develop your skills.

Generous Vacation Package: We value work-life balance and offer a generous vacation package, complete with additional gifted days off to give you the time off you deserve.

Professional Headshots: Start your journey with us on the right foot! All new hires on site are invited to receive a professional photoshoot to capture their best side.

Community Engagement: We are committed to giving back. Our lunch program supports philanthropic initiatives that benefit the community.

Office Celebrations & Social Events: Experience the joy of working in a vibrant environment with regular office celebrations and in-person socials to connect with your colleagues.

Flexible Work Hours: We understand the importance of flexibility and offer work hours that can accommodate your personal schedule when needed.

Referral Program: Help us grow our team! Receive rewards through our referral program when you bring in great talent.

Employee Discounts: Enjoy a 50% discount on our entire online collection.