Product Development and Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Development and Design Manager

Company: Meijer

Location: Grand Rapids, MI, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Development & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-01

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office, 2 days remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads the comprehensive design and product development lifecycle for all apparel and accessories, ensuring alignment with brand vision, assortment strategies, and target customer needs.

• Drives aesthetic execution through trend-right styling, fabrication, color palettes, and print/pattern direction, maintaining a consistent brand handwriting.

• Manages seasonal development calendars and coordinates cross-functional efforts with merchant, sourcing, and quality assurance teams to meet critical timelines and product integrity standards.

• Oversees the creation and accuracy of Technical Design Packages, fabric sourcing, and sample reviews to ensure quality and conformity to specifications.

• Develops and coaches direct reports, fostering teamwork, providing feedback, and promoting training and development for career advancement within the product development operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is pivotal in bridging the gap between creative vision and operational execution in product development. It requires a strong understanding of both design aesthetics and the practicalities of sourcing, manufacturing, and quality control within a retail environment. The emphasis on managing a hybrid schedule and seasonal travel indicates a dynamic, hands-on operational role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Own the Design and Product Development of all apparel and accessories, driving a cohesive brand vision in partnership with merchant and sourcing counterparts.

• Ensure product assortments are appropriate for the designated Meijer customer and brands, leading aesthetic execution through trend-right styling, fabrication, trims, color, and print/pattern.

• Manage seasonal development calendars to meet required timelines, coordinating and managing key steps in the development process to ensure design and merchandising requirements are met.

• Work with CAD Design to develop prints and pattern work for seasons, reviewing strike-offs and handlooms for layout and execution, resolving issues, and approving final designs.

• Partner with Quality Assurance Technicians to ensure complete Tech Design Packages are presented for sourcing, taking responsibility for completion, execution, accuracy, and communication of all Technical Sketch, Details, and Bill of Materials information.

• Review counter samples with Quality Assurance Technicians for fit, execution, and style approval, communicating any styling/detail changes affecting price or Bill of Materials to Global Sourcing.

• Develop skills and enhance productivity of direct reports by managing, coaching, providing feedback, instilling teamwork, conducting performance reviews, and promoting training and development.

• Travel domestically and internationally as required for seasonal sourcing and finalization teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic creative direction and rigorous operational management. Key areas include calendar management, cross-functional collaboration with specific teams (merchants, sourcing, QA, CAD), technical package development, and direct report management, all critical for efficient product lifecycle operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or equivalent industry experience.

Experience: 7 - 10 years of experience in Fashion Design or Product Development, with a proven track record of leading creative teams.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in assortment building from initial concept to execution, while maintaining development calendar benchmarks.

• In-depth knowledge and expertise with fabrics, trims, construction details, and finishing techniques.

• Strong understanding of industry trends, assortment planning, key item development, color, print, and pattern selection.

• Ability to adapt to existing and changing processes and brand assignments, while communicating and receiving thoughts and ideas openly.

• Concise, clear, daily communication skills required with Buyers, CAD, Color Analyst, Quality Assurance Technicians, and Global Sourcing.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience in leading and developing direct reports, including coaching and performance management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD Design for print and pattern development.

• Familiarity with Global Sourcing processes and international travel for product finalization.

• Knowledge of Quality Assurance protocols and Technical Design Package creation.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain a consistent brand handwriting across product lines.

• Experience in a retail environment, specifically with large-scale merchandise development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a balance between creative acumen and operational rigor. The requirement for specific experience in leading teams and managing complex processes like technical packages and global sourcing points to a role that demands both strategic vision and tactical execution within the product development operations framework.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated ability to manage and optimize the product development lifecycle from concept to final production, showcasing key milestones and decision points.

• Examples of successful product assortments developed, highlighting strategic alignment with customer needs and brand identity.

• Case studies or project examples detailing the development of Technical Design Packages, emphasizing accuracy, completeness, and impact on sourcing.

• Evidence of managing seasonal calendars, including successful navigation of timeline constraints and cross-functional dependencies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams or descriptions illustrating the end-to-end product development process, from trend research to final sample approval.

• Examples of how seasonal development calendars were managed, including tools, methodologies, and communication strategies used to ensure on-time delivery.

• Documentation outlining the collaboration process with Quality Assurance, Global Sourcing, and CAD teams, detailing communication flows and approval stages.

• Records of how print, pattern, and color direction were developed and approved, including any strike-off or handloom review processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, candidates are strongly advised to prepare a portfolio or be ready to discuss specific projects and processes that demonstrate their capabilities in managing the entire product development lifecycle. This should include examples of technical package creation, calendar management, and cross-functional collaboration within a retail or apparel context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Product Development and Design Manager with 7-10 years of experience in the Grand Rapids, MI area, the estimated salary range is $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the hybrid work model, required travel, and leadership responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Weekly Pay

• Scheduling Flexibility

• Paid Parental Leave

• Paid Education Assistance

• Team Member Discount

• Development Programs for Advancement and Career Growth

Working Hours: The role is a full-time position. The hybrid schedule requires 3 days in the office (Monday-Wednesday) and 2 days remote (Thursday-Friday). Standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours during peak development cycles or travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on national averages for similar roles and adjusted for the Grand Rapids, MI cost of living and typical retail industry compensation. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on work-life integration and professional development, which are attractive to operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Grocery and General Merchandise)

Company Size: Large (Meijer operates over 250 stores across six states, with a significant corporate and supply chain workforce). This size implies a structured environment with established processes and opportunities for large-scale impact.

Founded: 1934. With a long history, Meijer has a well-established brand and operational legacy, likely valuing tradition alongside innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Product Development and Design team likely operates within a larger Merchandising or Product Management division.

• This role involves close collaboration with Buying/Merchandising teams, Global Sourcing, Quality Assurance Technicians, and CAD Designers, indicating a matrixed or highly cross-functional reporting structure.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, heavily influenced by customer insights, sales data, and market trends.

• Emphasis on process efficiency and timeline management to ensure products hit the market according to seasonal plans.

• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, with regular communication and feedback loops across departments.

• Focus on maintaining brand integrity and quality standards throughout the product lifecycle.

Company Website: https://www.meijer.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Meijer's culture likely balances its long-standing family-owned values with the demands of a large, competitive retail market. For operations professionals, this means an environment that values both established processes and the ability to adapt and innovate, with a strong focus on customer service and community impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level position, overseeing a critical function within the product lifecycle. It requires strategic oversight, team leadership, and significant responsibility for product quality and market readiness.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a senior leader within Merchandising or Product Development, likely a Director or VP. The manager will then lead a team of designers and product developers.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts Meijer's product offering, brand perception, and ultimately, revenue. Effective product development and design ensures that the merchandise meets customer demand, drives sales, and maintains profitability through quality and cost-effective sourcing.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Manager or Director of Product Development/Design, overseeing broader product categories or multiple teams.

• Transition into Merchandising leadership roles, leveraging a deep understanding of product and customer.

• Opportunities to specialize in specific product categories or lead strategic initiatives related to sustainability, innovation, or private label brand development.

• Potential to move into broader operations management roles within the retail supply chain or merchandising divisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large retail organization. The emphasis on leadership, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration prepares individuals for higher-level operational and management positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role operates under a hybrid model, with 3 days per week in the Meijer corporate office in Grand Rapids, MI, and 2 days remote. This suggests a modern office setup designed for collaboration and productivity.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is specified as "989 - Meijer Office" in Grand Rapids, MI. This is the headquarters for Meijer's corporate operations.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment likely supports collaborative work sessions, including design reviews, trend analysis meetings, and cross-functional planning.

• Access to necessary design tools, CAD software, and potentially physical sample rooms or material libraries would be expected.

• The hybrid model allows for focused, individual work at home, balanced with in-person teamwork and strategic discussions at the office.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse range of departments, including merchandising, sourcing, quality assurance, and marketing.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with a hybrid schedule (3 days in-office, 2 days remote). This structure offers a degree of flexibility while maintaining in-person connection and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a key aspect of the work environment, indicating a modern approach to work-life balance. Candidates should be comfortable with both independent remote work and collaborative in-office sessions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will review applications for basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Focus on leadership experience, product development philosophy, trend expertise, and team management style. Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading design and development teams.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders such as buyers, sourcing managers, and QA leads. These will assess your collaboration skills, understanding of their respective functions, and ability to communicate effectively across departments.

• Portfolio Review: A critical step where you'll present your past work, showcasing your design aesthetic, product development process, and ability to meet business objectives. Be ready to discuss specific projects, challenges, and outcomes.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to assess strategic alignment and overall fit within Meijer's broader objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your experience in apparel/accessories design and product development, ideally showcasing a range of product categories or complexities.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem or objective, your role, the steps you took (trend research, concept development, fabric selection, technical package creation, sourcing collaboration, sample review), and the final outcome/impact (sales, quality improvements, cost savings).

• Showcase Leadership: If applicable, include projects where you led a team, managed timelines, or influenced cross-functional decisions.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your work (e.g., "increased sales by X%", "reduced sample rejection rate by Y%", "met all seasonal deadlines").

• Brand Alignment: Demonstrate an understanding of the Meijer brand and customer base, and how your design philosophy aligns with it.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your presentation is visually engaging, clean, and professional.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach developing a new product line or assortment for a specific Meijer customer segment.

• Practice articulating your process for resolving design or development challenges, such as fit issues, sourcing delays, or quality concerns.

• Think about how you would coach or provide feedback to a junior designer on your team.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to trend forecasting and translating trends into commercially viable products.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating end-to-end product development expertise, particularly in retail apparel, is essential. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process, collaborative approach, and the business impact of their design decisions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for creating prints, patterns, and technical sketches.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Experience with PLM software for managing product data, specifications, and workflows (e.g., Centric PLM, YuniquePLM, or similar).

• 3D Design Software (Preferred): Familiarity with 3D design tools (e.g., Browzwear, CLO3D) for virtual prototyping and visualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret sales reports and customer data to inform design and assortment decisions.

• Trend Forecasting Platforms: Experience with services like WGSN, Fashion Snoops, or similar to identify upcoming trends.

CRM & Automation:

• While not the primary focus, an understanding of how product development data feeds into broader CRM or ERP systems within a retail context is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, proficiency in industry-standard design software (Adobe Suite) and familiarity with PLM systems are crucial for efficient product lifecycle management in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and serving the Meijer customer through thoughtful product design and quality.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across departments (merchandising, sourcing, QA) to achieve shared goals.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Adherence to strict development calendars and deadlines to ensure products reach stores on schedule.

• Quality & Integrity: Maintaining high standards for product construction, materials, and brand representation.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Willingness to embrace new trends, technologies, and processes to stay competitive.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly communicative and proactive in engaging with cross-functional partners.

• Data-informed approach to discussions, using insights from sales, trends, and quality reports.

• Open to constructive feedback and iterative design processes.

• Focused on finding solutions that balance creative vision with business realities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values a blend of creative passion and operational discipline. Success in this role hinges on the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and drive projects to completion within established parameters.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Trend vs. Commercial Viability: Translating cutting-edge fashion trends into products that are appealing and affordable for the mass retail market.

• Managing Global Supply Chains: Navigating the complexities of international sourcing, including lead times, quality control, and geopolitical factors.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a cohesive aesthetic across a wide range of apparel and accessories, often managed by different team members or categories.

• Hybrid Work Dynamics: Effectively leading and collaborating with a team and cross-functional partners in a hybrid environment, ensuring seamless communication and productivity.

• Seasonal Pressure: Meeting demanding seasonal deadlines in a fast-paced retail environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen expertise in specific product categories or material sciences.

• Develop advanced skills in 3D design and virtual prototyping.

• Gain exposure to broader merchandising and retail strategy through cross-functional projects.

• Enhance leadership and people management capabilities through company-provided training and mentorship.

• Opportunities to influence strategic direction in areas like sustainability or private label brand evolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges inherent in the retail product development sector, coupled with structured learning and development programs.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for identifying and translating fashion trends into commercially viable product lines for a mass retailer like Meijer."

• "How do you ensure product quality and brand consistency when managing a diverse range of apparel and accessories developed through global sourcing?"

• "Walk me through your experience managing a seasonal product development calendar. What tools and strategies do you use to ensure deadlines are met, especially in a hybrid work environment?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Meijer's brand and its target customer? How would your design philosophy align with or enhance our current offerings?"

• "How do you foster a collaborative and productive environment within your team, especially given the hybrid work model?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically: Introduction to Meijer's context, overview of your role and team, followed by detailed case studies of 3-5 key projects.

• For each project, clearly define the objective, your specific contributions, the process you followed (emphasizing operational steps like calendar management, technical packages, and sourcing collaboration), and the measurable results.

• Be prepared to discuss the challenges encountered and how you overcame them, highlighting your problem-solving skills.

• End with a summary of how your skills and experience directly address the requirements of this Product Development and Design Manager role at Meijer.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their strategic approach to product development, their operational management skills (especially calendar and team management), and their ability to collaborate effectively within a retail context, using their portfolio as concrete evidence.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Development and Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Meijer careers portal at https://meijer.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Meijer.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in fashion design, product development, team leadership, trend analysis, and managing development calendars. Quantify achievements related to product launches, quality improvements, or cost savings.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that showcase your design aesthetic, product development process, and ability to meet business objectives. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.

• Research Meijer: Familiarize yourself with Meijer's brand, product categories, target customer, and recent initiatives. Understand their position in the retail market and their commitment to quality and design.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions focusing on leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, and your approach to product development and design in a retail environment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Meijer's hiring team before making application decisions.