Product Development Manager
Australian Contemporary Designer Brand
Now Hiring in Sydney
The Brand |
This Australian Contemporary Designer brand is on the rise globally from showcasing at Paris Fashion Week to the worlds coolest “it” girls with their pieces on high rotation and the most prominent shopping destinations with the brand in stock – you will know and love this brand. This is a significant time of growth with multiple incredible projects underway - we are now searching for a Product Developer Manager to join their team based in Redfern Sydney, in 2026.
The Role |
The Product Development Manager is responsible for overseeing design concepts into commercially viable product - managing development from sketch through to SMS – leading handover to production. This role ensures designs are executed to the highest standard of quality, technical accuracy, margin targets, and on-time delivery, working closely with Design, Development, Production, Technical, and Supply Chain teams.
Manage design development across categories (RTW, runway capsules, swim, accessories as required).
Manage SMS development timelines with factories to ensure deadlines and critical paths are strictly adhered to.
Approach product development issues with a solution focused perspective.
Working with the development team to ensure all tech packs are comprehensive and complete with accurate construction details, BOMs, trims, finishing instructions, and packaging requirements.
Manage and oversee a clear Zedonk/Monday upload of product lines including all BOM information and raw materials.
Work closely with the Design team to refine construction and ensure design intent is maintained through fit and costing iterations.
Partner with Production on:
Raw material allocation and availability
Supplier capacity and development timelines
Cost engineering and margin alignment
Zedonk upload of product information and accurate yields
Track development status daily and proactively flag risks to timeline or quality.
Manage proto, SMS and PPS sample process: ensuring that changes are reflected in tech packs and tracking systems.
Ensure correct application of construction standards and finish quality expectations.
Manage supplier communication.
Manage and adhere to the development critical path and calendar.
The Skillset |
The ideal candidate brings strong development experience – with exceptional communication skills, a calm, solutions focused approach to developing luxury womenswear. You must be comfortable in a high-performance environment where standards are continuously evolving.
5+ years in product development in premium/luxury RTW (experience in tailored categories desirable)
Strong technical foundation with excellent garment construction and fabric knowledge
Confident in building detailed tech packs (CLO / Illustrator proficiency essential)
Experience with leather, swim or special techniques (bonus)
Commercial understanding of costing models, duty implications, and market pricing
Extremely organised with strong sense of urgency and ownership
Excellent stakeholder management — able to push for outcomes and follow through
The Offer |
Genuine career development working with one of the most prominent luxury designers in Australia – this is a key role for an existing Product Development Manager!
There is a strong salary offering level with the experience required.
Please note that this role is full time onsite in Sydney.
Apply with Ange |
If this sounds like you, reach out to Ange for a confidential chat.
ange@thetalentmill.com.au
The Talent Mill Recruitment division is a bespoke consultancy and talent acquisition specialist within the fashion, lifestyle and retail industries. With more than 10 years specialist expertise with luxury, lifestyle & fashion brands globally we discover, recognize, and connect inspiring individuals to the most desirable brands as a trusted support to founder-led start-ups, SME’s and multinational corporations within the fashion & retail industry.
Recruitment – but make it ethical not transactional. Quality over quantity – always. Truly consultative and delivered at pace. We hold a genuine passion and expertise for the industries we support, and offer a unique and modern recruitment proposition – one where we develop long term, meaningful connections, add value and deliver an unforgettable service.