Product Development Manager | Performance Apparel | Melbourne
An exciting opportunity has become available for an experienced Product Development Manager to join a high-performance apparel brand at the forefront of technical innovation.
This is a pivotal leadership role where you’ll bridge design, sourcing, and production — transforming innovative concepts into technically sound, commercially viable, market-ready product. You’ll lead the development function, guide fit and quality standards, and ensure every garment performs at the highest level.
Why You’ll Love It
Senior leadership position with real influence across product strategy
Work on technically advanced, performance-driven apparel
Lead and mentor a skilled Garment Technician team
Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Sourcing, and Supply Chain
Join a brand driven by innovation, performance, and precision
The Role
You’ll oversee the full product development lifecycle — from concept and fit validation through to production readiness and commercial launch. This role combines deep technical expertise with strong process leadership, ensuring development timelines, quality benchmarks, and cost targets are consistently achieved.
You’ll also play a key role in refining development processes, improving efficiencies, and supporting special projects that elevate the broader product function.
Interested? Email your CV to seirian@whointhezoo.com.au or apply via the link for a confidential discussion in the new year.
*Only suitable candidates will be contacted in relation to their application.
Hiring Consultant: Seirian
Job Code: 1482583
Please note that only those applicants who fit the brief will be contacted in relation to their application.
RESPONSIBILITIES +
- Lead end-to-end product development, ensuring garments meet functional, aesthetic, cost, and timeline objectives
- Manage critical paths and development milestones to deliver on go-to-market deadlines
- Oversee tech pack accuracy, grading standards, and fit protocols across all categories
- Lead fit sessions and performance testing, ensuring product integrity and consistency
- Partner with suppliers to manage development costs and optimise technical execution
- Drive technical handover from development to production, ensuring bulk readiness and compliance
- Mentor and develop Garment Technicians, fostering capability and continuous improvement
- Monitor post-launch performance insights to inform future product refinements
REQUIREMENTS +
- 7–10+ years’ experience in product development, ideally within performance or technical apparel
- Strong expertise in garment construction, grading, fit, and quality standards
- Proven ability to manage complex development timelines and cross-functional teams
- Experience working directly with overseas factories and vendor networks
- Proficiency in PLM systems, Adobe Illustrator, and technical documentation
- A leadership mindset with strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Genuine interest in sport, performance, and product innovation