Role OverviewThe Product & Trend Development Manager will be responsible for overseeing product approvals, brand compliance, and sourcing execution across assigned brands within the Iconix portfolio. This role bridges product development, brand management, and licensing operations by ensuring that licensee-submitted products, samples, and documentation meet brand standards, retailer requirements, and market timelines.
In addition, the role will play a critical part in trend and competitive analysis, providing insights that guide product direction, assortment planning, and market positioning. This is a hands-on role for someone who can balance strong attention to detail with the ability to spot future opportunities that strengthen brand relevance.
Key ResponsibilitiesProduct Development & Brand Compliance
Review CADs and product submissions for brand compliance, trademarks, and aesthetic consistency.Ensure uniform branding across licensees, packaging, and product categories.Manage and track product approvals, including samples, packaging, and marketing assets.Review market samples to confirm alignment with brand standards, quality requirements, and retailer expectations.Documentation & Process ManagementMaintain documentation of product approvals, line sheets, and seasonal product calendars.Organize and store product photos and CADs in Excel databases and shared systems for easy reference.Support licensees in adhering to process calendars, approvals, and compliance requirements.Cross-Functional CommunicationServe as a point of contact between licensees, sourcing partners, and internal teams (Brand, Design, Legal, Finance).Provide clear communication and documentation of product approval decisions to licensees and partners.Support coordination of samples for retail meetings, brand summits, and trade shows.Trend & Competitive AnalysisConduct regular trend research and competitive shopping to identify market opportunities and white space.Analyze competitor assortments, pricing, and retail strategies; share insights with SVP and Brand Managers.Translate insights into seasonal product recommendations that strengthen assortment planning and brand positioning.Present trend findings in brand reviews, seasonal meetings, and retailer strategy sessions.Innovation & Market SupportLeverage knowledge of QR codes, digital tagging, and retail technology integrations to support brand consistency.Provide input into retailer presentations and first pitch meetings with approved samples and documentation. Qualifications·
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion, or related field (or equivalent work experience).·
- 5–7 years of experience in product development, brand compliance, or merchandising, preferably in fashion/apparel.·
- Strong experience conducting trend analysis, market research, and competitive benchmarking.·
- Ability to review CADs, samples, and product submissions with attention to brand alignment and compliance.·
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (including photo storage and product organization) and familiarity with QR code applications.·
- Excellent organizational and documentation skills; able to manage multiple brands and projects simultaneously.·
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience working across internal and external partners.·
- Detail-oriented, process-driven, and resourceful with the ability to problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.