Director of Product Development

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Director of Product Development to lead the creation and execution of new furniture collections for a high-end manufacturing operation. This role requires deep technical knowledge of upholstery, woodworking, and finishing processes, along with proven leadership in guiding teams through the full development lifecycle - from initial concept and prototyping to production and launch.  

The ideal candidate is as comfortable working with tools and materials in the sample room as they are directing strategic planning in the boardroom. They will be a key driver of quality, innovation, and craftsmanship across the organization.  

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead and actively participate in the hands-on development of new furniture designs, ensuring aesthetic excellence and production feasibility.  

• Oversee prototyping and sample development in collaboration with in-house pattern makers, frame builders, and upholsterers.  

• Provide direct guidance on construction techniques, materials, ergonomics, and comfort with an emphasis on craftsmanship and durability.

• Work side-by-side with the factory floor and development teams to solve design and engineering challenges in real-time.  

• Collaborate with internal and external designers to translate creative concepts into functional, buildable products.  

• Own the development timeline from design through to production, including costing, testing, and specification documentation.  

• Maintain a deep, practical knowledge of raw materials, including hardwoods, veneers, foam, springs,  textiles, and finishes. 

• Ensure that all new products meet quality standards and brand expectations, while also being manufacturable within cost and timeline goals.  

• Support continuous improvement of production methods, tools, and materials to elevate efficiency without compromising craftsmanship.  

• Serve as a mentor to junior developers, model makers, and production leads, fostering a culture of pride in workmanship and product excellence.  

Experience/Certifications/Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Furniture Design, Industrial Design, Engineering, or related field preferred.  

• Minimum 10 years of direct experience in high-end furniture product development, with at least 5 in a  leadership or senior technical role.  

• Proven hands-on expertise in upholstery, frame construction, finishing, and sample making. 

• Deep understanding of both traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing techniques. 

• Ability to interpret design drawings, build prototypes, and modify construction based on material or  production needs.  

• Strong project management and organizational skills with an emphasis on clear communication and deadline accountability.  

• Proficient in development tools such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks, as well as knowledge of shop-floor practices.  

• Passion for quality, design integrity, and the end user customer experience.  

• Willingness to be on the factory floor regularly and engage directly with production teams.
  

Abilities/Key Competencies/Skills:

• Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.

• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.

• Superior written and verbal communication skills.

• Must be able to work thoughtfully and thoroughly with continuous attention to detail

• Ability to learn quickly and retain a wide range of small details concerning multiple product types, tasks, system processes, issues, and/or projects

• Comfortable multi-tasking, or, pivoting between tasks on the fly as the need arises.

• Willingness to learn new products, procedures, and processes as business needs change.

• Exercise good judgment and critical thinking when dealing with escalated situations.

• Offer suggestions for process improvements and/or streamlining workflows whenever possible.

• Must be able to work thoughtfully and thoroughly with continuous attention to detail.

• A strong work ethic and friendly attitude, with the ability to be a team player, and stay self-motivated.
  

Preferred Traits:  

• Creative problem-solver with a practical mindset.  

• Detail-driven, with a deep respect for traditional techniques and modern innovation. 

• Collaborative, team-oriented leader with a strong presence and a roll-up-your-sleeves approach. 

• Committed to maintaining high craftsmanship standards in a scalable, production-focused environment. 
  

Organizational Relationship:

Identify who the position reports to and/or who reports to this position:

• This position reports to the VP of Operations.

• This position supervises a team of employees.

Travel Requirements (if any):

• Less than 5%.